Every place has it's peak tourist season, mid season and an off season period.
Try and travel during off season or mid season so that you don't have to pay a premium on everything ranging from stay to food to travel. Also, you can be spared the crowds.
For example, never travel to Goa between November to February as this is the time when tourists from all over the country as well as outside flock there. This results in skyrocketing prices ranging from hotel rooms to tourist activities.
To make it worse, the beaches are packed with people and this just sucks the joy out of the whole holiday.
Also read: Personalised travel planning at no extra cost