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2 Florida Destinations Are Among The Most Affordable Vacations

Author Jeff Gorra

With schools being out and summer underway, it’s time for road trips to begin. With that in mind, U.S. News and World Report published a list that ranks the most affordable vacations in the country, and two Florida destinations were featured. “Whether you’re seeking a fun national park adventure, a beach escape or a small-town getaway, you’ll discover plenty of budget-friendly vacation options,” U.S. News states.

Out of the 20 vacations areas that were ranked here, spots number eight and nine belong to Florida towns. In fact, Florida was the only state south of North Carolina to be be featured here. Overall, these spots cover all corners of the country, from national parks in Washington to the gateway to Acadia National Park. Their common thread is that each of them inspire outdoor summer fun.

#8 Destin

U.S. News highlights the Shores at Crystal Beach Park and Henderson Beach State Park’s Appalachian quartz sand has two picturesque landscapes where you can relax along the beach. Destin also has a boardwalk that is full of activities. From cruise tours to paddle boarding, to live music, this area has lots to do. The Destin Boardwalk site points out that, “Now is the time to book your Destin vacation rental and save $$$.” Lastly, U.S. News pointed out that certain hotel rooms can be booked for less than $200 per night.

#9 St. Augustine

Next, we go directly across the state to the Atlantic Ocean side.  St. Augustine ranked directly behind Destin as the second Florida destination that are among the most affordable vacations. Here is where you can go to find some Sunshine State charm and history. You can take an Old Town Trolley Tour or visit the iconic Lightner Museum. Finally, you can head over to World Golf Village and check out the Golf Hall of Fame. “Whatever travelers discover, timeless stories of other eras are sure to unfold while experiencing the oldest city in the United States,” Visit St. Augustine says. Currently, there are resorts within World Golf Villages that have nightly rates for as low as $140.

5 Florida Beaches Named the Best 'Secret Beaches' in America

Summer is here, and it’s going to be hot, as always, in Florida. Florida beaches are very popular and fun. But, they can also get crowded. Thankfully, there are some “secret” beaches that are kind of more difficult to find.

If you’re looking for some “secret” places to get your beach on in Florida, the crew at Family Destinations Guide has done the research to find you those spots. “We surveyed 3,000 families in the United States to determine the hidden beaches they most want to visit in summer 2023,” they state in the study.

As it turns out, Florida has four of the top 10 “secret beaches” in America, according to this study. That means they shouldn’t be too overcrowded. That’s a great thing.

If you’re wondering about Family Destinations Guide, they regularly feature “reviews of hotels, resorts, destinations, and attractions your whole family will love. In addition, the site is filled with ideas that will help you plan your next trip. From family trips with infants and children, to excursions with teens and older kids, Family Destinations Guide gives you detailed advice for traveling with kids of all ages.” Even if you don’t have kids, their content can be useful. For example, these secret beaches can be fun to visit no matter your age. Read on for four Florida spots that made the top 10 of the list and one extra. Find the full list here.

  • Shell Key Preserve

    Shell Key Preserve, Florida is ranked No. 2 on the list. That’s amazing! What makes it stand out? According to Family Destinations Guide, “The beach is unspoiled and natural, with no development or buildings, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere.”

    Shell Key Preserve

    Shell Key Preserve is a jewel-in-the-rough that few people take the time to experience. A 1,828-acre archipelago at the mouth of Tampa Bay off Florida's Gulf Coast, Shell Key Preserve is frequented primarily by birds and other wildlife. For people to get there, they must take a boat to Shell Key, the biggest piece of dry land in the preserve.

  • Lovers Key State Park

    Lovers Key State Park is ranked No. 6 on the list. According to the official Florida State Parks website, the park “protects some of the most pristine barrier islands in Southwest Florida.” It also features “over two miles of sugar-sand beaches.”

    Lovers Key State Park

    Once a collection of secluded barrier islands reachable only by boat, Lovers Key, in recent years, has become a romantic destination for spectacular, beachside weddings.

  • Dry Tortugas National Park

    Dry Tortugas National Park is ranked No. 9 on the list. According to the park’s official website, “This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands.” It’s also accessible only by boat or seaplane.

    Dry Tortugas National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

    Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and the vast assortment of bird life that frequents the area.

  • Boneyard Beach

    Boneyard Beach is ranked No. 10 on the list. According to the Florida State Parks website, it “is a favorite Jacksonville retreat and close-kept secret.” It also offers three miles of shoreline along the Nassau Sound.

    Boneyard Beach

    Escape the hustle of the city shore and explore a wilder side of Jacksonville at a one-of-a-kind beach at Big Talbot Island State Park.

  • Navarre Beach

    Navarre Beach is ranked No. 13 on the list. According to the Visit Florida website, “Navarre, a compact beach community found just east of Pensacola at the far northwestern tip of the state, beckons with 12 miles of pristine white shoreline.”

    Navarre Florida - Vacation Guide & Attractions in Navarre FL

    Nestled between Gulf Islands National Seashore and Navarre Beach County Park, the beach community of Navarre offers solitude and simplicity. Relaxation is the main attraction here.

  • Source

    This study comes from the Family Destination Guide. They surveyed 3,000 families in the United States to find the hidden beaches they most want to visit in summer 2023. Find the full list here.

    100 Best Secret Beaches in the USA for (2024)

    Looking for the top hidden beach destinations in the USA? Click this now to discover the BEST secret beaches in the USA - AND GET FR

Jeff Gorra is a Boston-based writer who has been with Beasley Media Group since the beginning of 2023. He writes about restaurants and food, as well as sports and rock music. His experience also includes show hosting and in-depth creative writing in rock and reggae dub music. Jeff’s an avid surfer, New York Giants, and Pearl Jam fan, however, if you make unforgettable pizza, he is sure to find you.

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