The ultimate guide to a Florida vacation on a budget
When planning a vacation to Florida, it can be hard to know where to start. The state has hundreds of miles of beaches, and the cities draw you in with culture, arts, and nightlife (Miami) or a dozen theme parks including the most famous of all, Walt Disney World (Orlando). With so much allure for the whole family, where should you go on your Florida vacation?
Things to do on vacation in Florida
Snorkel on Key West
If you prefer coral reefs, diving and snorkeling to beaches, sunbathing and sandcastles, Key West is the Florida destination for you. This island city is part of the Florida Keys archipelago, just 90 miles north of Cuba. Key West is the ultimate destination for a romantic getaway with art galleries, cocktails, and boating, or for the whole family with dolphin encounters, snorkeling, and live music. Key West provides the opportunity to get a taste of Caribbean culture without needing a passport.
Be a beach bum in St. Augustine
St. Augustine, known as the Ancient City, is on the northeast coast of Florida and the oldest city in the United States. Its beaches have clear water and sparkling white sand, providing a beautiful place to unwind and sunbathe. St. Augustine is home to Anastasia State Park, boasting pristine beaches, tidal marshes, and ancient sand dunes. History buffs will enjoy a visit to Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States. And if you love golf or tennis, this city is the spot for you!
Enjoy culture and arts in Miami
Welcome to Miami! One of the most popular destinations for Florida visitors, this city has tons to do for young and old. Visit the iconic Miami Beach (of course), Everglades National Park, the zoo and aquarium, or get a taste of Cuban culture in Little Havana. For nightlife, check out South Beach, and for a kid-friendly trip try deep-sea fishing, a water park, and a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich at Ms. Cheezious. One thing's for sure: you'll never run out of things to do when you vacation in Miami, Florida.
How can I do ALL that on a budget?
Be flexible
The best way to save on travel costs is to be flexible in your dates of travel if you can. The best way to go about this, epecially for a year-round popular destination like Florida, is to travel outside out school breaks and national holidays. This will help you save on transportation and recreational costs. The tail end of a season is generally the best time as crowds lessen once people return to school and work.
Stay in a home exchange
Finding vacation accommodations in Florida can also be a challenge, especially on a budget. Hotels or Airbnbs can cost thousands of dollars for just a week. So choose vacation accommodations that won't break the bank by staying in a HomeExchange. Then you can spend your vacation budget on on pina coladas, theme parks, and dolphin encounters rather than accommodations!
Our members save up to 80% on accommodation costs with HomeExchange. Plus you get the extra value of making new friends and traveling like a local would to get a more genuine and authentic experience! Click here to find your next HomeExchange.