Did anyone say affordable vacation spots? Florida has plenty!

The Sunshine State quickly tops the list of weekend trip ideas and summer vacation plans. Whether seeking out a trip to the city or planning an affordable beach vacation, Florida offers lots of budget-friendly places to explore.

The state is known for its sunny skies, natural landscape, stunning beaches, various amusement parks, and warm weather. Everglades National Park in Florida, for example, is widely known as one of America’s must-visit natural wonders.

Tourists also visit Florida to enjoy the Sunshine State’s lovely Gulf Coast beach towns and partake in water sports. Luckily, a trip to Florida doesn’t have to break the bank, and there are plenty of affordable vacation spots.

We’ve rounded up some of the best ones, so get ready to see and enjoy Florida on a budget!

1. Sarasota

When it comes to affordable vacation spots in Florida, Sarasota is by far one of the best options. Out of the plenty of fun things to do in Sarasota, a bunch of them are inexpensive or even free.

For example, Siesta Beach is a public beach featuring soft sand, crystal clear water, and lifeguard stations. Another charming and free attraction in the region is Point of Rocks, a shoreline with unique rock formations, palm trees, marine wildlife, and seashells. Adults can explore exclusive exhibits at the John Ringling Museum of Art, while kids will love the Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy.

Moreover, the Sunday Community Drum Circle at Siesta Beach is something you shouldn’t miss for a truly memorable experience.

The average cost of vacation for a one-week trip in Sarasota for two people is $3,492.

2. Delray Beach

The key to a budget-friendly Florida vacation is taking advantage of the free public parks and galleries. Thankfully, Delray Beach has both, making it one of the most affordable vacation spots in the Sunshine State.

Free-entry places like the former water utilities property that is now known as Wakodahatchee Wetland have lots of boardwalks for tourists to take a morning stroll along. If you want to spend your afternoon in the downtown area, you can explore Atlantic Avenue, a historic street packed with art galleries, unique shops, local food vendors, and a thriving nightlife.

The street also leads directly back to the beach for those who want to make the most of their day in Delray Beach.

The average cost of vacation for a one-week trip for two people in Delray Beach is $3,418.

Are you looking for a new beach towel? Look no further, because Amazon has lots of options!

3. Jacksonville

While Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida by population, it’s also among the most affordable vacation spots in the state. Located on the Atlantic Coast, Jacksonville is a lovely city where you’ll find everything you want from a summer trip: fine sand, warm sun, and waves.

You can enjoy a taste of city life by exploring the area’s restaurants, bars, museums, and shopping centers. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, a free and fun activity in Jacksonville is wandering through the Riverside Arts Market. This event takes place under the Fuller Warren Bridge and draws many farmers, artists, musicians, and craft makers.

The average cost of vacation for a one-week trip for two people in Jacksonville is $3,075, making it one of the most affordable vacation spots in Florida.

4. Fort Myers

While not as famous as Miami Beach, Fort Walton Beach offers just as much fun without the high cost of the former. If you’re looking for affordable vacation spots for your next summer trip, you should definitely consider Fort Myers.

There’s plenty to explore there, from the city’s stunning beaches and parks to its impressive food scene. A wonderful way to take in Fort Myer’s natural beauty is by visiting Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, a spectacular wildlife sanctuary containing walking trails and exquisite fauna and flora.

You can take a stroll along the elevated paths while keeping an eye out for birds, turles, and alligators. You can enjoy excellent shelling opportunities at the beach, free music and art walks, and visits to attractions like Ford Winter Estates and the Edison.

The average cost of vacation for a one-week trip for two people in Fort Myers is $3,443, making it one of the most affordable vacation spots in the Sunshine State.

5. Pensacola

No. 5 on our list of affordable vacation spots in Florida is Pensacola. This area of the Sunshine State is known for its clear water, sugar-white beaches, charming beachside restaurants, and excellent fishing.

There’s much more to do in Pensacola than be at the beach, however. Exciting things there besides a beach day include shopping along Palafox Street and visiting the National Naval Aviation Museum. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and more at Perdido Key State Park, and make sure you don’t miss the chance to taste fresh seafood at Pensacola Beach Pier.

Discover hidden gems like the Pensacola Beach Eco-Trail and Quayside Art Gallery, or explore local art and music at Palafox Market. In other words, there’s so much to do and see that you’ll want to come back next summer. Thank us later!

The average cost of vacation for a one-week trip for two people in Pensacola is $2,778. Now that’s what we call budget-friendly!

Keep reading to discover other affordable vacation spots!

6. Melbourne

South of the big city of Orlando, Melbourne is a hidden gem of a coastal Florida town. As one of the most affordable vacation spots in the Sunshine State, Melbourne is the perfect spot for those on a budget thanks to its free-to-park public beaches and many family-friendly activities.

This city also offers a variety of free outdoor spaces to explore some of Florida’s unique wildlife, including the stunning Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands, which is a wonderful place to see Florida’s famous alligators and a wide variety of birds.

Melbourne is also home to the Sea Turtle Preservation Society, where tourists can, depending on the season, volunteer to search for sea turtles or even witness a sea turtle release.

The average cost of vacation for a one-week trip for two people in Melbourne is $2,458. When you compare this price to the one you’d spend on a trip to other, more famous places, you’ll understand why Melbourne is one of the most affordable vacation spots.

7. St. Augustine

If you’re looking for a place not only to enjoy the summer but to create some unforgettable memories, this is the place to be. A true piece of history, St. Augustine in Florida is the oldest city in America and home to lots of beautiful white sand beaches, must-see historic buildings, and a lively coastal town vibe. To top it off, it’s also among the most affordable vacation spots in Florida.

Perhaps the most famous landmark there is the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument (the ticket is $15 per person). You can also take a free self-guided tour through the St. Augustine Distillery, catch a glimpse of the St. Augustine Lighthouse, or take in the outdoors at Anastasia State Park to round out your budget-friendly Florida coast vacation.

When it comes to affordable vacation spots in Florida, St. Augustine is by far one of the best options. For just $10 a day, you can enjoy the splash park, the pier, and volleyball courts. Even parking won’t drain your wallet.

The average cost of vacation for a one-week trip for two people in St. Augustine is $2,230.

8. Ocala

No. 8 on our list of affordable vacation spots in Florida is Ocala. If we were to describe this place in a few words, we’d say it’s a unique Florida city. Ocala blends multiple protected natural landscapes with more than 400 thoroughbred horse farms and training centers.

The city is home to a bunch of free and inexpensive federally protected lands, including Rainbow Springs State Park and Ocala National Forest. If you’re looking for a more unique weekend trip idea in the Sunshine State, you can also tour some of Ocala’s top-notch horse farms and training facilities.

The Ocala Stud and Five Phases Farm are both open to the public, and visitors can enjoy a tour of some of the farms through companies like Farm Tours of Ocala.

The average cost of vacation for a one-week trip for two people in Ocala is $2,453, making it one of the most affordable vacation spots in Florida!

9. Marathon

The Florida Keys is a famous travel destination, and for good reason. Known as the world’s dive capital, this area offers an incredible outdoor experience. While the Florida Keys is a popular place, it’s possible to find some affordable vacation spots there and plan a budget-friendly trip.

Staying in the city of Marathon is the best example. You get to experience the Florida Keys vibe and still not break the bank. Marathon is a 10-mile island that serves as a hub for waterfront dining, seafood festivals, outdoor adventures, and delicious seafood.

A free and fun activity to enjoy in Marathon is biking or walking the Seven Mile Bridge. Once an old railroad bridge, this structure offers stunningly beautiful ocean views that will make you fall in love with them.

The average cost of vacation for a one-week trip for two people in Marathon is $2,200. This isn’t just one of the most affordable vacation spots in Florida, but in the entire country!

10. Cocoa Beach

Last but not least on our list of the most affordable vacation spots in Florida is Cocoa Beach. When you think a trip to the Sunshine State can’t get any cheaper than you’ve already seen above, we’re here to tell you that Cocoa Beach is even more affordable. You’ve been warned!

This coastal city is known for its stunning beaches and surf breaks. Cocoa Beach is also home to Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world’s largest surf shop, spanning 52,000 feet and packed with surf, swimming, and skating equipment.

After exploring this unique spot, head next door to the Florida Surf Museum, a budget-friendly attraction that teaches visitors about the Sunshine State’s surf history through interesting events, programs, and exhibits.

The average cost of vacation for a one-week trip for two people in Cocoa Beach is $2,027, making it one of the most affordable vacation spots in the country!

If you liked our article on the most affordable vacation pots in Florida, you may also want to read 8 Bucket List Destinations You’ll Fall in Love With.