Florida Vacation On A Budget
Have you always dreamed of taking a vacation to Florida? The Sunshine State offers a wide array of affordable and fun things to do… even on a budget! Below are my recommendations of places to stay and things to do while visiting this thriving tourist mecca. Not matter what you’re into, you can find an affordable vacation package that fits your needs. The Sunshine State, a title it rightly earns with its year around average high of 72. If you’re hunting for Florida vacation deals you can easily find affordable hotels in Florida. The Hilton Walt Disney World Resort and the Wyndham Vacation Resorts are just a few of the great hotels in Orlando that are considered some of the best resorts in Orlando, Florida.
If you are like me, the word budget triggers a fight or flight response. It is a dirty word. Budgeting is for broke people. That is why I never vacation. However, I secretly wished I could afford to go away as a treat to myself. There had to be a way! Florida has something to offer everyone. Whether you are a beach bum or a nightlife fiend, you have an opportunity to have a Florida vacation of your dreams. The best part is that you do not have to break the bank while enjoying all this beauty. There are ways to have a Florida vacation on a budget.
Florida Vacation On A Budget
Top 8 Cheapest Places to stay in Florida
Sep 1 , 2021 · 5 min read
With endless sunshine, hundreds of miles of pristine coastline, and ample options for activities, it’s no surprise that Florida is one the most popular travel destinations in the United States. When traveling to top tourist spots like Orlando and Miami, a trip to The Sunshine State can wind up costing quite the pretty penny.
What you may not realize is that Florida is filled with awesome destinations that provide fun for the whole family without burning a giant hole in your wallet. From Cocoa Beach to St. Augustine, our Trip Support team has rounded up the top budget-friendly destinations in Florida for the ultimate family vacation.
Here are the top 8 cheapest places to vacation in Florida:
1. Cocoa Beach
Because it is one of the most popular family-friendly vacation spots in Florida, you may be surprised to learn that Cocoa Beach is incredibly affordable. From sunbathing on white sand beaches to strolling through the charming Cocoa Village, Cocoa Beach is the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation in Florida.
There are tons of options for cheap hotels, motels, and condos in Cocoa Beach, so you are guaranteed to find something within your price range—even right on the beach. With countless family-friendly attractions and affordable dining options, you won’t get bored in Cocoa Beach. Don’t forget to check out the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop, the largest surf shop in the world.
2. Everglades National Park
Nature lovers, this one’s for you. Considered to be one of the best national parks in the United States, Everglades National Park is a Florida gem filled with unparalleled beauty and an abundance of natural wildlife. As the only subtropical preserve in North America, the Everglades are truly one of a kind. The park acts as a sanctuary for many rare and endangered species that you don’t often see, so if you have ever wanted to safely see a crocodile up close—this is your chance.
Some of the most popular things to do at Everglades National Park include hiking, camping, kayaking, and taking boat tours.
To stay on the park grounds, you will need to make use of the camping facilities. Otherwise, there are plenty of affordable accommodations in the nearby areas.
3. Pensacola
The sunny city of Pensacola is known for its sparkling white sand beaches, rich colonial history, and family-friendly atmosphere. With plenty of budget hotels, vacation homes, and condos right by the beach, you can easily find a great place to stay. Top attractions in Pensacola include the Gulf Breeze Zoo, Pensacola Lighthouse, Children’s Museum, and Fort Pickens.
Between the miles of gorgeous coastline and wide array of festivals, concerts, museums, and outdoor activities, Pensacola makes a fantastic choice for a cheap vacation in Florida. Before your trip comes to an end, make sure to check out the beautiful Gulf Islands National Seashore to see the largest federally-protected shore in the United States.
4. St. Pete Beach
Located just 30 minutes from Tampa, St. Pete Beach offers the ideal combination of adventure and relaxation. This laid-back beach has gained popularity in recent years and was even named the Number One Beach in America in 2021 by TripAdvisor. St. Pete Beach also offers plenty of accommodation types to fit any budget, from resort-style hotels to casual beach condos.
Kick back and soak up the sun on the award-winning beach or take part in one of the many exciting activities offered around town.
From snorkeling and exploring the waterfront parks to hitting up the art galleries and local shops downtown, your trip to St. Pete Beach is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.
5. Orlando
I know what you’re thinking. Orlando, cheap? While theme park tickets tend to cost an arm and a leg, the city of Orlando itself is actually very budget-friendly.
Visitors can stroll through historic Old Town, enjoy a picnic at Lake Eola, and go hiking or biking along the city’s many picturesque trails. With so many options for hotels, you can easily find one within your budget.
If you’re hoping to get some Disney and Universal action without spending the money, you can choose between Disney’s BoardWalk, Disney Springs, and Universal’s CityWalk.
These exciting areas are free to explore, with countless opportunities for window shopping and free entertainment abound.
6. Marathon
While the Florida Keys are generally known to be an expensive area to travel to, the hidden gem of Marathon is an exception. This tiny island in the Keys offers a tropical oasis from the hustle and bustle of the more crowded tourist destinations, making for the ultimate relaxing vacation in Florida.
Known for its crystal blue waters and colorful barrier reefs, Marathon is one of the best places in the world for diving. Other popular activities in Marathon include sailing, fishing, snorkeling, hiking, and birdwatching. If you’re looking for an affordable trip to the Florida Keys, Marathon is the best option.
7. Fort Myers Beach
Located just a stone’s throw from the famous Sanibel Island, Fort Myers Beach is a family-friendly beach destination known for its paradisiacal coastline, Old Florida charm, and mouthwatering seafood straight from the Gulf of Mexico.
Beach bums can relax in the sand for hours, while adventurers can opt for exciting water sports like kayaking and parasailing.
From amusement parks and miniature golf to day spas and museums, there is something here for every type of traveler. Once you’ve had your fill of the beach for the day, head over to the thriving riverside district to peruse through the many shops and restaurants. Fort Myers Beach guarantees an unforgettable time, all without breaking the bank.
8. St. Augustine
As the oldest European settlement in the United States, St. Augustine is bursting with history in every direction. Go back in time as you stroll down charming cobblestone streets and check out well-preserved historical landmarks. With immaculate Spanish Colonial architecture and an abundance of affordable living museums, even those of you who aren’t history buffs are bound to be impressed.
In addition to its rich history, St. Augustine is known for its desirable warm weather, beautiful beaches, and haunted tours of the city. With so much to do and see, this thriving city makes for the perfect cheap family vacation in Florida.
Those are our top picks for the cheapest places to vacation in Florida. With Trip Support’s flexible Book Now, Pay Later model, you can book your exciting trip to Florida without spending anything up front. Talk about a good deal! Just sit back, relax, and get ready to enjoy the time of your life.