7 Affordable Florida Vacation Ideas

Did you know Florida has 825 miles of accessible beaches and is known for its fishing and boating all around the world? That means Florida has something for everyone to enjoy.

When you think of Florida vacation ideas do you think pricey and unaffordable? This is a common thought but there are actually a lot of free and inexpensive activities to do on the east coast of Florida. If you spend more time before your vacation planning and researching, your trip can be more affordable and enjoyable.

Planning a vacation can be challenging and expensive. But there are a few tips and tricks that we are going to share with you so you don't have to stress about money on your trip. Keep reading to learn about affordable Florida vacation ideas.

Tips for an Affordable Trip to Florida

When planning your trip to New Smyrna there are a few things to keep in mind when setting your budget. Airfare, ground transportation, food, activities, shopping, and housing rentals.

One of the easiest expenses to cut out is shopping. Local shops are fun to browse around, especially if happens to rain in the afternoon but buying lots of souvenirs and clothes is costly. In tourist towns, prices are usually higher for basic items like t-shirts and flip-flops.

Air Fare

One of the most expensive parts of vacation is the airfare. There are a few things you can do to save on flights. Book in advance, last-minute tickets are usually pretty pricey.

There are apps that will also track flight prices for you. After you download the app you can set up notifications. You will get an alert when flight prices change and it will advise you when it's the best time to buy.

Flying on weekdays tends to be more affordable than on the weekends as well. The time of the flight can also determine the price.

While flying in late at night or early in the morning might not be ideal it can be less expensive.  The redeye is a great option if you're looking for cheap flights.

Bonus Tip: Purchasing airline points to pay for the flight is sometimes cheaper than buying it outright. For example: If your flight cost $500 or 1000 points, the 1000 points might be for sale on the airline's website for $450. Then you just saved $50.

Baggage fees add up quickly too. Look for airlines that offer free carry-ons and pack as light as you can.

Baby Gear and Rentals

If you have a young child, traveling and packing light might be challenging. Instead of paying to bring your car seat and stroller, rent one when you get your vacation rental. Maybe you forgot to pack something or need a crib for the week.

While there isn't a rental shop in New Smyrna, you can reserve what you need in advance, and it will be delivered to you with no extra fee. They have everything from baby gates, to high chairs, to playpens. Sandy Andyâs Baby & Beach Rentals want you to have a restful and fun vacation, so they will also pick it up so you don't have to worry about loading it into your car or taxi.

New Smyrna Beach Rentals

There are so many beach rental options, that it can be overwhelming. Knowing exactly what you need and want will help you narrow it down. Start with the room number, do you need 1 or 2 rooms? Maybe you are having extended family or friends come with you and you need 5 or 6 rooms.

Traveling on a budget may mean you have to sacrifice an oceanfront view, but don't worry, there are properties with ocean views too. If you need a pet-friendly rental we've got you covered.

The best way to find good deals on a rental is to call and ask! Great Ocean Condos and Homes is frequently running vacation promotions.

1. Sight Seeing New Smyrna Landmarks and Activities

New Smyrna is a quiet beach town but don't be mistaken, there are plenty of fun things to do. The Flagler Avenue sign is a popular place for photos. It is located at public beach access so after your photo op you can stroll down to the sand to watch the sunset.

Another notable spot is the Lifeguard Tower. It's on Buenos Aires Street and the perfect place to set your tent up for a relaxing day in the sun.

You'll want to take a bike ride around the charming town and stop at the local stores and restaurants. If you are a morning person you might even want to get up early one morning and take a ride on down the beach.

Finding a bike rental store doesn't have to be hard. In fact, you can rent a bike for your week-long vacation for $75 and have it delivered to the front door of your Florida rental.

Have you ever heard of a wine walk? Every Saturday on Flagler Avenue you can sign up for the local wine walk. There are 100 different wines to choose from and you'll receive a refillable souvenir cup that you'll use along the way.

It has a $30 entry fee, which includes 20 different tastings and multiple venues. To state the obvious, this activity isn't for kids but it's perfect for a day date with your partner.

Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center is iconic and it's only an hour away from New Smyrna Beach. We recommend you get there early so you can have a full day exploring. Many days there are astronauts on-site for meet and greets and taking pictures with people.

Check the schedule on the center's website to see the launch schedule too. They offer military and senior discounts. You can see historical launch sites and learn about the shuttles and what's coming in the future.

They also offer summer camps for children who are interested. You'll get the opportunity to buy souvenirs and space gear at the center too.

2. Kayak Tour for the Whole Family

Kayaking tours are a popular activity in New Smyrna. There is so much wildlife and aquatic plants that you'll miss seeing if you opted out.

Taking a guided tour costs a little more but you'll get to see secret local spots and learn some amazing things about the land you're visiting. There is an $18 discount if you bring a kayak, otherwise, it is $38 for adults and $20 for children ages 6-12.

The Marine Center is a great stop to make. There are tons of activities for all ages including a workshop class, a butterfly farm, and a play place for smaller children. There is also a free museum that will give you a chance to see some aquatic species.

3. Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is only a 30-minute drive from New Smyrna and it makes for the perfect day trip. If you or anyone in your group love to fish this might be the spot for you. Many tourists love to fish off the side of the pier and you will likely see dolphins.

In the summer months, the boardwalk is a great place to take your young children as there are lots of rides and arcade games set up. If you are looking for a unique experience check out the Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory.

You can take a self-guided tour for free and receive a free sample. It has free parking and is wheelchair accessible. If you don't have young children consider going to a NASCAR race or horseback riding on the beach.

4. Smyrna Sand Dunes

Located on the north end of New Smyrna Beach are the famous sand dunes. This is a fantastic place to go on Florida summer vacations.

It's budget-friendly, only $10 to park your car for the day. There is a military and veteran discount.

It is a 2.4-mile loop and the best part is it's wheelchair accessible. There are only a few parts that aren't and it's by the beach and some rocky inlets.

Is it pet friendly? Yes, there is a dog beach and they are allowed on the boardwalk until 10:00 am. Even if you don't plan to bring your furry friend it's a good idea to arrive early as the parking lot fills up quickly.

Surfing and Paddle Boarding