From weeklong family trips at Walt Disney World to the most lavish weekends partying on South Beach, the costs can spiral quickly no matter where you find yourself in Florida. However, amid the often sunny-meets-relaxed razzle dazzle, there are plenty of opportunities for budget-conscious travelers to feel right at home in the Sunshine State.
Consequently, money-saving measures can often lead to enriched experiences, whether it’s taking in Fort Lauderdale’s skyscape via water taxi, lounging on one of Florida’s free beaches, or exploring the southern half of the state via one of the most modern high-speed train systems on Earth.
Daily Costs
- Basic room for two: $150–200
- A slice of key lime pie: $6–10
- Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $200–250
- Brightline ticket from Miami to Orlando: from $44–189
- Coffee: $3–5
- Tank top from a beachside souvenir shop: $15–20
- Fresh seafood dinner for two: $60–80
- Craft beer pint at a Florida brewery: $6–10
1. Pick the Right Airport to Cut Travel Costs
Florida boasts more than 100 public-use airports, with 16 serving international travelers. Notably, airports in Orlando, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa offer a plethora of flight options. Moreover, when considering flight choices, look beyond the cost of individual flights and account for taxis and car rentals required to reach your final destination, as these expenses can add up quickly.
Florida stretches nearly 500 miles from north to south; thus, a drive from Jacksonville to Miami can exceed five hours. Therefore, selecting the cheapest flight without considering proximity can significantly impact your budget upon arrival.
2. Visit Between September and October for the Best Deals
The Atlantic hurricane season spans from June 1 to November 30. If traveling during this timeframe, stay alert to the weather forecast. Whilst hotel and tour bargains abound throughout hurricane season, September and October generally provide more comfortable temperatures compared to the often sweltering summer months. Adequate travel insurance can mitigate risks associated with hurricanes disrupting your plans, but this option incurs an additional cost—therefore, shop around to find the best rates.
3. Some Beaches Charge a Fee; Choose Wisely
Approximately 90% of Florida’s 1350 miles of coastline are accessible to the public. Some of Florida’s most popular free beaches include Clearwater Beach, Daytona Beach, and Amelia Island, which remain entirely free for visitors.
4. Pack Sunbathing Essentials to Avoid Paying Heavily Upon Arrival
Essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, bathing suits, hats, and blankets are crucial for a Florida beach adventure. Moreover, bringing these items can save you money, as beach-related items are often overpriced near access points.
5. Skip the Boat Rental and Opt for a Water Taxi
If the costs associated with renting a boat, whether for a day at sea or on Florida’s Intracoastal Waterway, seem prohibitive, consider a water taxi. Options include the Naples Bay Water Shuttle, Tampa’s Pirate Water Taxi, and Fort Lauderdale’s Water Taxi, which provide affordable ways to enjoy the Sunshine State’s waterways.
6. Save Time and Money on the Brightline
Traveling around Florida has been made significantly easier with the expansion of the Brightline high-speed train, which connects South Florida to Orlando. Previously, getting from Orlando to South Florida required either a lengthy flight or an extensive drive; now, the trip takes just three hours, with one-way tickets starting at $45.
7. Explore Florida’s State Parks for Discounted Outdoor Activities
Florida has 175 state parks that offer a range of outdoor activities at low costs. An annual pass for individuals is approximately $60, while a family or group pass for up to eight people costs around $120. Many parks feature on-site rentals that are typically cheaper than those available outside the parks.
8. Purchase Theme Park Tickets in Advance for Best Deals
From popular destinations in Florida such as Busch Gardens to iconic attractions like Walt Disney World, obtaining theme park tickets well in advance can lead to significant savings. Generally, booking as early as possible helps avoid higher costs associated with same-day purchases.
9. Stay a Few Blocks from the Sea to Save on Hotels
In coastal Florida cities such as Naples and Key West, hotel rates tend to be higher when they offer ocean views. To save money, consider accommodations just a block or two inland. This strategy not only saves you money but often places you close to vibrant local attractions.
10. Shop at Publix for Affordable Meals
Instead of spending excessively on dining out, purchase takeout meals from Publix, Florida’s famed supermarket. The “Pub Sub,” buffalo chicken dip, and key lime pie are popular favorites that allow you to enjoy quality meals without breaking the bank.
11. Experience Florida’s Tropical Landscapes Without an Admission Fee
Some of the finest views in Florida are accessible without any fees. Hollywood’s oceanfront boardwalk, filled with independent shops and beautiful sights, is free to enjoy, while Daytona Beach’s Sun Splash Park offers free beachside walking paths.
12. Explore Florida’s History in a Free Museum
Several museums in the Sunshine State do not charge admission fees. For example, the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola showcases over 180 classic aircraft, including some which survived the Pearl Harbor attack, while Gainesville’s Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art features an array of pre-Columbian and African artifacts.
