But thats not all Daytona Beach is also a budget-friendly destination with plenty of affordable lodging options. The area is also known for its art scene, with many galleries and museums featuring local artists. Known for having a chill, no shirt, no shoes culture, Cocoa Beach is one section of Florida's Space Coast you won't want to miss. Days Inn by Wyndham Panama City Beach/Ocean Front is located on the beach and offers upgraded suites with separate living areas, while private balconies and an oceanfront pool at Bikini Beach Resort also boast stunning Gulf of Mexico views. Top 8 Affordable Florida Beach Vacations - Florida Rentals Blog This is a beautiful quiet beach where you can enjoy the very warm water, no undertow, and find some of the best shells on the West Coast. Beach Cove Resort is more than just a place to put your head in a bed in South Carolina. You can hike or bike on the trails at Point Washington State Forest, which protects a range of coastal ecosystems. In this article, well take a look at the top picks for the cheapest beaches in Florida, so you can plan the perfect beach getaway without breaking the bank. Located on Floridas east coast, Daytona Beach has everything you need for a fun-filled beach vacation. Start your day of exploration with a warm scone at Upper Crust Bakery & Cafe, then pop into shops along West Venice Avenue. This hotel features 2 outdoor pools, a restaurant, and a bar/lounge. North Miami Beach. Select Florida resorts, such as the adults-only Bungalows Key Largo, are truly all-inclusive, while others offer all-inclusive packages or nearly all-inclusive rates that include overnight. Where to Stay: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Sundy House is a historic Queen Anne-style bed and breakfast that dates back to 1902. 4 Hidden, Cheap Beach Destinations on the Gulf Coast - SmarterTravel Relax at this spa resort on the beach, perfect for watching the sunset. Many forget that Alabamas heel nudges onto the Gulf of Mexico, its coastline a natural extension of the Florida Panhandle. 24/7 Customer Service. Where to Stay: Hyatt Place Sarasota/Bradenton Airport is located near Sarasotas top attractions, while Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach and Twin Palms of Siesta Key are great options for those who want to be close to the beach. The Pensacola Beach Boardwalk has everything for a pleasant day. The ignorance of others is a boon to the enlightened traveler. You can rent vacation homes with water views and pools for under $1,000 per week and get seafood entrees at beachfront restaurants for less than $20. 14 Best Affordable Beach Vacations, From Crete to Cape May Explore 6 of the best Florida beach vacations you can imagine without hurting your wallet in our handy guide to savings, with some of the best seashores in the Sunshine State. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Our mission is to help travelers find and book the perfect vacation rental for their next visit to Florida. TripAdvisor. For family vacations, the cost of food and activities would start at $128 per day. Of course, you can't discuss beach destinations without mentioning Florida. Kids will love the arcade and miniature golf course, while animal lovers can check out the dolphin exhibit. Budget Friendly Vacation Rentals - Florida Rental By Owners St. Pete Beach is a hidden gem that is perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for a family-friendly vacation spot. Whether youre looking to relax on the beach, learn about the local history, or explore the outdoors, this beach town has got you covered. And oh, the beaches! Among the many free and inexpensive attractions families love in the area are the Pensacola Lighthouse, the Pensacola Childrens Museum, the Gulf Breeze Zoo and Fort Pickens and Gulf Islands National Seashore (the longest stretch of federally protected seashore in the country). You can also visit the Dolphin Research Center or the Museum of Natural History that focuses on the tropics. Enjoy the view from the floor-to-ceiling windows in the rooms at Hilton Melbourne Rialto Place, which also features an outdoor pool and tennis court. This area is also very famous as being the home of Kelly Slater World Champion surfer. 6 Budget Friendly Beach Vacations in Florida - Westgate Resorts If you are looking for a sunny Florida vacation that wont break the bank, we have some great destination ideas for you! The sunshine State of Florida is a popular dream destination making it the ideal holiday getaway. Best Ways to Spend 4th of July Weekend in Tampa, Floridas 11 Most Unique Attractions To Visit On Your Next Trip, Top 10 Florida Attractions for Kids: 2023 List, Treat Yourself: Floridas 13 Best Ice Cream Shops, Pamper yourself at Floridas 9 most relaxing spas. These affordable - and fabulous - seaside destinations won't leave your wallet singing the blues. . Marathon consists of 13 small barrier islands between the mainland and Key West and offers tons of free/cheap activities such as snorkeling at Sombrero Beach, kayaking but you can go for a bike ride too along the Old Seven Mile Bridge. Delight to dolphins on undeveloped Shell Island. The turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico provide endless entertainment and relaxation. Whether youre looking for a fun family day out or a romantic evening stroll, Johns Pass Village & Boardwalk is the perfect destination for anyone looking for an enjoyable and affordable experience. The Marathon area of the Florida Keys is a delight for divers, watersports lovers, fishermen and bargain hunters. Cocoa Beach has dark sand and a wide beach area. Roughly 15 miles south of Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach is a family-friendlier option with less-crowded shores and lots of rental condo options for hosting your entourage. But it doesn't mean cashing in our savings and jetting off to an exotic locale to do so. This popular attraction is conveniently located just a short drive from St. Petersburg and Clearwater, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike. Cocoa Beach has plenty of free activities for travelers on a budget. About half an hour up the grand strand from the affordable-vacation paradise of Myrtle Beach you'll find Cherry Grove, an even more affordable alternative with a fraction of the crowds. Florida Vacation Packages 2023 from $246 Travelocity If youre a surfer, diver or nature lover, this northwest Florida destination has plenty of affordable activities to choose enjoy, from snorkeling and kayaking in St. Andrews State Park to dolphin watching on the undeveloped Shell Island. Admission is free. The closest Key to Miami, Key Largo is perpetually busy with mainland crowds. This large white sand beach has lots of restaurants and shops around so it is easy to find cheap places when you get hungry or need to buy some beach accessories. Her favorite family travel destinations are Norway and Florida. And for those looking for a beach vacation that won't break the bank, Florida is the key or should we say Keys. $119. It is located about 30 miles north of Key West and is often overlooked as travelers head south through the Keys. Athens to Barcelona: Luxe, 10-Night Mediterranean Pennsylvania: Daily Car Rentals from Pittsburgh, The 10 Best Beach Destinations in the World, 8 Surprisingly Uncrowded Beach Vacation Spots in North America, 10 Gorgeous Beaches Youve Probably Never Heard Of, 15 Beach Bag Essentials You Need for Summer, The Best Sun-Protective Clothing for Summer, 10 Wrinkle-Resistant Summer Travel Dresses Perfect for Packing. Its no wonder that Siesta Key attracts so many tourists each year. Miramar Beach Vacation Rentals 165 rentals starting at $128 avg/night Naples Vacation Rentals 311 rentals starting at $54 avg/night Panama City Beach Vacation Rentals 783 rentals starting at $82 avg/night Pensacola Beach Vacation Rentals 92 rentals starting at $218 avg/night Ten miles south, its neighbor Ponce Inlet is just as wallet-conscious with far fewer crowds. Inexpensive or free area activities include playing or surfing on its wonderful waves, hiking, biking or kayaking, admiring art at its numerous galleries or just unwinding on the beach. 10 Best Cheap Florida Family Vacations 2021. They are pristine, with white sands and blue waters. The following Gulf Coast beach destinations are still unmarred by development, with opportunities for adventure, culture, great food, and, yes, even reasonable prices. Copyright 2023 Family Vacation Critic All Rights Reserved, Terry Ward is based in Florida and has worked as a freelance travel writer since 2000, writing for such publications as CNN, Conde Nast Traveler, National Geographic, The Washington Post and Scuba Diving Magazine, among many others. Read More 5 Awesome Family Friendly Beaches in Florida KeysContinue. The hidden beach destination Floridians escape to, Anna Maria Island has somehow managed to keep condo towers, fast-food chains, amusement parks, and glitzy mega-resorts off its shores. Theme park tickets are far from cheap in Orlando. And famous Key West is far from a budget experience. It is a large area with plenty of room for activities and sunbathing. St. George Island, a barrier island located off of the Florida Panhandle is another perfect town to enjoy a cheap beach vacation in Florida. "There is a hot tub but we didn't use it. The most reasonable time to visit St. Pete with family and stay in a hotel is during August. Lowdermilk Beach features a playground and picnic tables, while Naples Pier and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park are great places to enjoy leisurely strolls and dolphin spotting. One of the best things about Panama City Beach is that its family-friendly, with plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. My trip to Anna Maria made me feel in a nostalgic sense what beach vacations must have been like 20 or 30 years ago, says Tim Leffel, author of Make Your Travel Dollars Worth a Fortune, who visited the island with his family. 1. Discover a selection of more than 10,000 vacation rentals in Florida, US that are perfect for your trip. You are so close to the space center you can even feel the ground rumble when they lift off. View on map. The beaches are wide and beautiful, theres the famous Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse to explore, and classic restaurants like the fish camp-style Down the Hatch Seafood Company beckon with tasty seafood baskets and water views. Beach vacations this year don't need to cause financial stress. #15 Best Value of 31 Budget Resorts in Florida Keys. 5 Inexpensive Beaches in Florida Most of them are familiar chains, such as the Holiday Inn Express Biloxi-Ocean Springs, but you can also stay in independent properties like the Gulf Hills Hotel & Conference Center. Secure online payment. If you are looking for a cheap Florida beach town to stay, Anna Maria Island is definitely a place to check out for your next trip! 1. NSB was settled way back in 1768 by a Scottish physician and 1,000 Spanish settlers who intended to grow indigo, sugarcane, and hemp. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Where to Stay: Sanibel Island Beach Resort is just steps from the shore, offering spacious suites, on-site restaurants and a pool. Where to Stay: Traveling with the family? Hollywood Beach, located between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, is a hidden gem among the popular Florida beaches. For an old-school Florida vibe, family-friendly surfing fun, and lots of affordable hotels, motels and beach rental condos within easy striking distance of the sand, Cocoa Beach on Floridas Space Coast ticks all the boxes (and then some). Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear())2021 VISIT FLORIDA. Islamorada emcompasses six islands, each surrounded by serene ocean and soft sands. Visit Fort Pickens National Park to see the fortifications that protected the city from enemy attacks during wartime. Enjoy live music at the weekly Jammin Jensen Festival or rent a metal detector and scan the shores of this Treasure Coast town. Bring your sunblock to protect against UV rays and dont forget a few pairs of swim trunks, as the warm gulf waters are perfect for boogie boarding and bodysurfing. Fort Walton Beach Best Places to Stay Boasting some of the best beaches in Florida's Panhandle, Fort Walton Beach is located on the Emerald Coast. Since the mid-90s, every sunset has been a reason to celebrate Clearwater Beach. Cherry Grove Beach, South Carolina. Free Cancellation. In fact, no construction on this seven-mile-long barrier island on Floridas Gulf Coast is more than three stories tall, and 60 percent of its land is an open beach. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Hollywood Beach: Siesta Key in Florida is a destination thats hard to resist, with its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear blue waters. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. Vacation rentals available for short and long term stay on Vrbo. 10 Best Cheap Hotels In Florida, USA | Trip101 With lots of small, family-run motels and an abundance of affordable beach rentals, too, Bradenton Beach, near the tiny town of Sarasota, is a cheap Florida family vacation on this stretch of the states gulf coast. All rights reserved. With 27 miles of picture-perfect coastline, Panama City Beach is far more than its former spring break reputation. 10 Best Cheap Florida Family Vacations 2021 Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Pensacola Beach. See more of her work at terry-ward.com. $76. By Joane Acar. This underrated beach bordering Alabama, Perdido Key (the name translates to "lost island") is 23 miles west of Pensacola International Airport. Youll find numerous shops and restaurants in the historic downtown area, including plenty of cheap eats. All rights reserved. Check out our top picks for the cheapest beaches in Florida below. Recommended Hotel: Seahorse Oceanfront Inn. Find here the best places that are kids and family friendly! AFFORDABLE (Cheap) US Beach Vacations & Getaways: Florida + Oregon Daytona Beach has long held a reputation for being one of Florida's most affordable beach towns. Playing golf at one of Gulf Shores championship golf coursesand fishing are also popular pursuits. Top 20 Florida, US beachfront vacation rentals | Vrbo Located by Cape Canaveral, it has been known to be the home of the Astronauts since the 1960s. 10 Cheapest Beach Destinations You Can Book Around The World - TheTravel These cheaper beach alternatives offer fewer crowds and easy access to white-sand beaches, budget-friendly attractions and low-cost outdoor adventures, from seashell collecting and snorkeling to activity-filled state parks. 11 Cheapest Places to Visit in Florida in 2023 - Budget Travel Buff Enjoy sweeping views of the Indian River Lagoon with easy access to swimming, boating, diving, bird watching, kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing, and even sea turtle spotting. If you find yourself getting sun burnt and stir crazy, check out the historic Cape San Blas lighthouse. Dont worry there are plenty of budget-friendly options available for travelers looking for a cheap getaway in the Sunshine State. 1. Youre spoiled for choice with nearby beaches, from the award-winning pure crushed quartz sand at Siesta Key and surfable waves at Lido Key to the family-friendly facilities at Coquina Beach in nearby Bradenton. Show prices. There are so many things to do in Panama City beach that make this one of the bestcheap beaches in Florida. You can find some great deals on vacation rentals in Ponce Inlet, especially during the summer months, when the areas large snowbird population has migrated back north for the season. 10 Most Affordable Beaches in Florida for Your Next Vacation When you're ready to hit the beach, there's plenty of sandy shore to discover and a big collection of fossilized shark teeth and colorful shells to uncover. beaches for families to hit here are Jax Beach (as locals call it) and the quieter and more residential enclaves of Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach, to the north. There are lots of popular places to check out. 35 Cheapest Beach Vacations: Swoon-worthy Destinations You Need to See Visitors love its central Gulf Coast location. Join in the local tradition of watching the fishermens fleet unload their catches outside Captain Andersons Marina at dusk. Its northerly location in Florida is one of the reasons you can find such an abundance of affordable beach rentals and motels in Jacksonville Beach; many visitors from out of state think they have to head as far south as possible in Florida for the most sun. Playalinda Beach is one of the private, nude beaches that beckon explorers of all ages. Getting here from Miami International Airport or Key West Airport is easy with a rental car, and the views on Route 1 and connecting bridges are incredible. And maybe not spend a fortune? From country music performances by artists like Clint Black to rock bands like REO Speedwagon, theres always something exciting happening on their outdoor stage. For party vibes and full-on fun, grab a cheap Florida vacation package at the ever-popular South Beach or near the rooftop bars and pumping nightclubs of Miami. at the fabulous and free Disney Wilderness Preserve. Beach Cove Resort. But Since I haven't been everywhere, I called in some backup. Travel news, itineraries, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox. Located along Floridas alluring Space Coast, Melbourne Beach is home to a string of unspoiled beaches perfect for a summer vacation. Enjoy free beach access and parking at Lori Wilson Park. Free Cancellation. One of the best things about Gulf Shores is its array of budget-friendly hotels and motels that are just steps from the sand. Situated within walking distance of the beach, Days Inn by Wyndham Daytona Oceanfront offers straightforward rooms that open onto private balconies with sea views. Here's a few of our top spots to enjoy cheap Florida beach vacations. There are plenty of affordable places to take the kids for a day-out. Try your hand at surfing at Sebastian Inlet State Park or take a day trip to Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge to learn about sea turtle conservation and nesting season. Vacation in Florida - Florida Trips & Packages 2023 from $201 Expedia In the far western reaches of Floridas Panhandle, Pensacola Beach beckons budget-minded families in search of an old-fashioned, cheap Florida family vacation that wont bust the wallet. SeaSpiration is the best source of inspiration when it comes to planning a beach vacation. And oh, the beaches! 12 Budget-Friendly & Cheapest Beaches in Florida 2023 - SY Traveling This little town is so chill you'll find it hard to go back to real life. Clearwater Beach - Best beach for sunsets Clearwater Beach has long been a favorite vacation destination for those seeking sun, sand and surf. 10,000 beachfront vacation rentals to book online from $97 per night direct from owner for Florida, US. This beautiful destination in Florida offers beautiful white sand beaches, tons of great shopping including laid back surf shops to high end retail and lots of outdoor adventures like jet skiing and parasailing. Scope out Clearwater Beach deals at Visit St. Pete/Clearwater's website for discounts on accommodations and everything from weddings to fishing to wildlife packages. Enjoy retail shopping along East Atlantic Avenue, then stroll the boardwalk at Wakodahatchee Wetlands for a chance to see birds, turtles and alligators. Amelia Island is one of the best romantic getaways in Florida because it features 13 miles of stunning beaches, sparkling blue waters, and tons of native wildlife. Find a comfortable refuge at Island View Cottages, then spend a few days exploring town and its surrounding beauty. Our enthusiastic and well-travelled team aims to provide comprehensive destination guides along useful travel tips to make the most of your time spent by the sea! Most people come to Cocoa Beach when there is a rocket launch because it is the perfect location. Thats right, you wont find any chain restaurants or high-rise, view-blocking buildings here. The most affordable beach town in Florida is Pensacola, although technically speaking, it's a city, not a town. This Florida Gulf Coast town's name is no mistake. 8442 Palm Parkway, Orlando, FL. Grab a bite at Al's Beach Club and take in the view of sparkling Gulf waters on the eastern end of Santa Rosa Island. In nearby Stuart, visit the House of Refuge and stroke stingrays at theFlorida Oceanographic Coastal Center. 1/BR 2/BA SLEEPS 6 Add . Average cost per night: $126. Prices start at $79 per night, and . However, if you are looking for more lively entertainment, you will need to go back to the mainland. Top 10 Cheapest Beach Vacations In Florida - The Budget Traveling Many popular freshwater springs are within easy reach of Gainesville, too, and make for a perfect day trip. 3,336 reviews. Where to stay: There were dozens of vacation rentals on TripAdvisor under $1,000 a week for the dates I checked, and hotels are equally affordable. Where to stay: Most accommodations on Anna Maria are vacation rentals or small condo resorts. Read More Clearwater Beach Vacation Guide Making The Most Of Your TripContinue. Think quaint coffee shops, colorful shops, and scenic views galore. Whether you prefer casual beachside cafes or traditional seafood restaurants, theres something for every taste and budget. Take a stroll along the Cocoa Beach Pier and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean for free. 22 best budget-friendly beach resorts to visit - TODAY Whether youre looking for cheap beach vacations in Florida or in other lesser-known states for tourism, this list of hidden and affordable beach destinations on the Gulf Coast will satisfy your desire for sun and sandwithout breaking the bank. Steven Yeager is a passionate travel blogger and content creator. Can you hear the waves crashing and the seagulls calling? Start your visit by climbing the 203 stairs to the top of Florida's oldest lighthouse, Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. Should you look for an inexpensive way to enjoy Sunshine State, here are some affordable beach towns in Florida where you can vacation on a budget.