9 Affordable Weekend Getaways in Florida

Pensacola Beach, FL: Family Fun

Located on the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola beckons with its glistening turquoise waters and sugar sand beaches, offering cheap weekend getaways in Florida. Beyond its 50-plus miles of coastline, the city boasts a rich tapestry of food and aviation festivals, expansive parks, and family-friendly attractions, making it a premier beach vacation destination. Pensacola Beach, Perdido Key, and Gulf Islands National Seashore stand as pristine havens for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as fishing, paddling, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing. Scuba divers can explore reefs, historic shipwrecks, and the Florida Panhandle Shipwreck Trail, featuring 12 wrecks from Pensacola to Port St. Joe.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in Pensacola's food scene by timing their trip with popular festivals such as the Pensacola Seafood Festival, Pensacola Crawfish Festival, and Taste of the Beach. With a plethora of shopping options, including malls, boutiques, and beach shops, as well as a lively nightlife scene along Pensacola Beach, this Gulf Coast gem offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for all who visit.

Clearwater Beach, FL: Arts & Culture

Clearwater beach florida

Located just west of downtown Tampa, St. Pete and Clearwater Beaches epitomize the quintessential Florida getaway with their stunning white sand beaches and vibrant coastal atmosphere. Offering a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment, these two wings of the same bird provide families with an array of activities to enjoy. St. Pete Beach is renowned for its edgy charm, boasting a vast collection of street murals adorning downtown streets, as well as cultural gems like the Dalí Museum. Meanwhile, Clearwater Beach exudes a family-friendly vibe, drawing crowds with its powdery sands, shallow waters ideal for swimming, and nightly sunset celebrations at Pier 60.

For those seeking budget-friendly entertainment, exploring downtown St. Petersburg's vibrant arts scene, with its myriad of street murals and cultural attractions, offers a rich tapestry of experiences without breaking the bank. Whether basking in the sun on powdery sands, admiring colorful murals, or enjoying sunset celebrations, St. Pete and Clearwater Beaches offer an unforgettable and affordable coastal escape for families seeking relaxation and fun in the Florida sun.

St. Augustine, FL: Historical Downtown

St Augustine Florida

The oldest city in the U.S, St. Augustine stands as a living testament to the nation's rich history. Its charming blend of centuries-old architecture, cobblestone streets, and laid-back atmosphere make it an ideal destination for a Florida family weekend getaway. Visitors to St. Augustine can immerse themselves in the city's storied past by exploring historic sites and preserved buildings, including the iconic 17th-century Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. This Spanish fortress, with its commanding waterfront location, offers a glimpse into the city's colonial heritage and provides a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls and scenic views of the Matanzas River.

In addition to its historical allure, St. Augustine offers an array of affordable activities for visitors of all ages. Outdoor enthusiasts can head to Vilano Beach to catch some waves or enjoy a leisurely day of sunbathing and beachcombing. For a taste of local culture, exploring the city's eclectic shops and dining establishments along its quaint streets provides an opportunity to sample regional cuisine and discover unique treasures.

Sanibel Island, FL: Island Escape

Historic Sanibel Island Florida

Sanibel Island, Florida, known for its shell-covered beaches and wildlife refuges, offers an array of affordable activities for travelers seeking a serene escape. From leisurely bike rides along scenic trails to sunset beach walks that cost nothing but offer breathtaking views, the island caters to nature lovers. Exploring the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge provides a deeper immersion in nature without breaking the bank, with affordable admission granting access to tranquil trails and abundant wildlife. Additionally, activities such as kayaking or canoeing through the island's waterways, picnicking by the shore, or fishing from piers provide budget-friendly ways to experience the island's charm.

Beyond its natural allure, Sanibel Island boasts cultural and historical richness. Visitors can delve into the island's past at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, where affordable admission offers insight into its heritage through exhibits and guided tours. Whether observing birds at the refuge, collecting shells on the beaches, or simply enjoying the laid-back atmosphere, Sanibel Island promises an affordable and enriching getaway for all who visit.

Give someone a trip to Florida

Have someone who could use a trip to Florida? Give them a flight gift card, a meaningful and practical gift towards their trip. You can get gift card directly from the airline, but we'd recommend going for a flexible option such as Flightgift, to make sure they get the best deal. Flightgift is a multi-airline gift card, valid for 400+ airlines worldwide, including all major airlines in the US.
You can read more about Flightgift through this dedicated explanation page. In essence, it's a gift card to redeem for flight tickets, with a validity of 2 years from the purchase date. It's a fun way to give new memories to the people you care about.

Cocoa Beach, FL: Space Coast

cocoa beach sunrise

Located on Florida’s Space Coast just east of Orlando, Cocoa Beach offers an authentic beach vacation experience with a focus on sun, surf, and sand, making it one of the top affordable Florida weekend getaways. With an ongoing schedule of rocket launches, thanks to the commercial space industry, the area is bustling with activity and excitement. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Black Point Wildlife Drive at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, where alligators, manatees, and roseate spoonbills can be spotted along the scenic route, popular among birders. Additionally, during the summer months, ranger-led sea turtle walks depart from the refuge, providing a unique opportunity to witness nesting sea turtles laying their eggs on nearby Canaveral National Seashore.

For a break from the beach, visitors can explore the local shops and eateries, sample fresh seafood, or take a leisurely stroll along the Cocoa Beach Pier. With its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and array of budget-friendly activities, Cocoa Beach offers a quintessential beach getaway that appeals to travelers seeking a laid-back coastal retreat close to nature.

Ocala, FL: Natural Springs

Silver Springs Park Ocala Florida

If beach getaways aren’t what you’re looking for, head to North Central Florida, approximately 40 miles south of Gainesville, where Ocala serves as a gateway to the region's abundant natural treasures, offering inexpensive weekend getaways in Florida. Ocala is renowned for its proximity to numerous freshwater springs, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to indulge in year-round aquatic adventures. From the crystalline waters of Rainbow Springs State Park to the iconic glass-bottom boat tours of Silver Springs State Park, visitors can immerse themselves in the region's natural wonders. These springs offer an array of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, providing families and adventurers with affordable ways to explore and appreciate the great outdoors.

Moreover, Ocala's allure extends beyond its traditional springs to include unique geological formations such as Devil's Den, a prehistoric spring located just a short drive from the city. Visitors to Devil's Den can marvel at the stunning underground cavern with its crystal-clear water, ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving adventures. With plenty of campsites Ocala makes for an outdoorsy Florida staycation! This natural wonder offers a one-of-a-kind experience, allowing guests to explore an ancient geological marvel while taking in the beauty of its submerged surroundings.

Siesta Key, FL: White Sand Beaches

Siesta Key Sarasota Florida

Siesta Key, located just west of Sarasota on Florida's Southwest Coast, is renowned for its 8-mile-long stretch of stunning quartz-sand beaches. Siesta Key offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, from fishing to parasailing, making it the perfect destination for a Florida staycation. Recently recognized with the No. 2 spot for beaches in the U.S. by TripAdvisor's 2023 Traveler’s Choice Awards, Siesta Beach's pristine shores rival even those of Maui’s Ka'anapali Beach.

Exploring Siesta Key is made easy with the island's free trolley service, allowing visitors to effortlessly navigate to attractions such as Siesta Key Village, home to a variety of dining options and live entertainment, as well as the South Village Shopping District.

Delray Beach, FL: Oceanside Downtown

Delray Beach florida

Just a two hour drive north of Miami, Delray Beach offers a sophisticated yet affordable escape where arts and culture meet the sea. With its two miles of pristine coastline, Delray Municipal Beach serves as a magnet for beach enthusiasts, drawing over 3 million visitors annually. From swimming and surfing to paddleboarding and snorkeling, there's no shortage of water activities to enjoy. For a leisurely afternoon, visitors can cast a line off the pier at Lake Ida or explore Downtown Delray Beach's historic Atlantic Avenue, renowned for its eclectic mix of local food vendors, art galleries, and unique shops. The avenue, which stretches from I-95 to the ocean, offers a vibrant atmosphere and serves as a gateway to the town's bustling nightlife.

Delray Beach's charm extends beyond its beaches and bustling downtown, offering a wealth of cultural experiences for visitors of all ages. Families with children can embark on educational adventures at the Sandoway Discovery Center, where animal encounters and captivating aquarium feedings await. With its abundance of free public galleries, parks, and affordable attractions, Delray Beach presents an enticing option for a budget-friendly Florida weekend getaway that seamlessly blends relaxation, culture, and coastal charm.

Islamorada, FL: Tarpon Feeding

tarpon feeding islamorada florida keys

Sitting between Key Largo and Marathon in the Florida Keys, Islamorada stands as the quintessential “Sport-Fishing Capital of the World.” With its top-notch guides and charter services, the village offers unparalleled opportunities for anglers to reel in prized species like sailfish, bonefish, and tarpon. Beyond its renowned fishing scene, Islamorada's six islands—Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Indian Key, and Lignumvitae Key—abound with family-friendly activities. Long Key State Park invites visitors to swim, kayak, and camp along its shores, while Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park offers hiking trails and guided tours. Adventurous souls can paddle across the water to Indian Key Historic State Park or Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park for sunbathing, hiking, and swimming amidst pristine natural beauty.

Families of all ages will delight in the interactive experiences Islamorada has to offer, from feeding tarpon at Robbie’s Marina to exploring the area’s rich history at the Florida Keys History and Discovery Center. For a memorable encounter with marine life, a visit to Theater of the Sea offers the chance to see dolphins up close making Islamorada and ultimate Florida staycation.

Weekend Getaways in Florida: Last thoughts

Florida's diverse landscapes and vibrant cultural scene provide a plethora of options for cheap weekend getaways that cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. From the historic streets of St. Augustine to the tranquil beauty of Siesta Key, each destination offers a unique experience without breaking the bank. Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat in the Florida Keys, an adventurous escape in the Ocala National Forest, or a family-friendly adventure in Clearwater, Florida has it all. These nine destinations showcase the best of what the Sunshine State has to offer, proving that you don't need a hefty budget to create lasting memories. With each location boasting its own distinct charm and array of activities, an affordable and enjoyable weekend getaway in Florida is within easy reach for everyone. So grab your bags, and don't forget your sunblock, and get ready to explore the palm trees and sandy coasts of Florida.

Looking for more Weekend Getaway inspiration, check out our getaway guides: