Families are finally catching on to the college students' secret--for no-frills budget travel, nothing beats staying at a hostel. Dismiss outdated images of dingy dorms piled high with backpacks. Many hostels around the country now welcome families with simple, private rooms and even a few luxuries like hot tubs and pools. You'll also find homey common areas, fully equipped kitchens, washers and dryers and perks such as bike and boat rentals. What's more, a number are historic landmarks. Membership in Hostelling International-American Youth Hostels (free for those under 18; $28 for those 18-54; $18 for those over 54; $250 for lifetime for all ages; call 202-783-0717), an association that inspects and licenses all member hostels, is not always required, but it helps with peak season reservations and lower rates. For summer trips, reserve family rooms at HI-AYH hostels in spring.

Read on for one of our favorite spots, the Vashon Island Ranch Hostel in Vashon Island, Washington.

VASHON ISLAND RANCH HOSTEL

VASHON ISLAND, WA: A short ferry ride from Seattle, this 12 1/2-mile-long island is an unforgettable getaway and cyclists' paradise. At the island's only hostel, families can sleep in Sioux tepees, cozy covered wagons or the hand-hewn log lodge, made from the ranch's own firs. Perks include ferry pickup, complimentary fix-your-own pancakes and bikes for riding to the nearby beach. Open May through October. Nightly rates are $15 for member adults and $17 for non-member adults; half-price for member kids ages 18 and under and non-member kids ages 12 and under. Call Vashon Island Ranch Hostel at 206-463-2592.

Valerie Wolf Deutsch coauthored the newly revised guide THE BEST BARGAIN FAMILY VACATIONS IN THE U.S.A.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated August 2005.