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The great thing about many of these activities is that theyre often free or very low cost.
This means you’re free to have agreat summer vacationwithout having to empty your wallet.
Florida boasts some of the worlds most stunning beaches, said Hollie McKay, VP of communications atHotelPlanner.
It depends on the beach and when you go.
Visit Carlin Park in Clearwater for something a bit easier, or challenge yourself atTorreya State Parknear Tallahassee.
State parks typically have a small entry fee, usually less than $10, said McKay.
State park entry fees are typically less than $10 per vehicle.
For example, entry to Torreya State Park is $3 per vehicle.
If you already have a national pass, entry should be free minus the cost of the pass.
Another state park worth visiting is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo.
Other options includeJohn U. Lloyd Beach State Parknear Fort Lauderdale and Bahia Honda State Park in the Keys.
McKay suggestedWeeki Wachee Springs State Parkif youre near Tampa, or Rainbow Springs State Park if youre near Ocala.
Depending on where you go, you could go swimming, kayaking or paddleboarding.
Kayak rental fees range from $32 to $42.Rainbow Springs State Parkcosts $2 to enter per person.
Kayak rentals are $16 to $20 an hour.
Shell Island
Take a shuttle to Shell Island to see wildlife and seashells, said Betts.
Shell Island is located on the Emerald Coast, just south ofPanama City Beach.
Skip expensive restaurants and explore vibrant farmers markets, said McKay.
Free or Low-Cost Museums
Many museums offer free admission on specific days, said McKay.
Check out the Miami Childrens Museumsfree admission daysor explore the Orlando Science Centers exhibits during their Discount Days.'
Betts suggested visiting Pier Park, a shopping mall in Panama City, or Harborwalk Village in Destin.
You might need to pay for parking, which can range from $2 to $5.
If you want to rent a swan boat, expect to spend around $15 for a 30-minute trip.
Historic Tour
Many cities offerfree walking toursthat glimpse the local culture and history, said McKay.
Donations are generally accepted.
Amusement Park
You dont have to spend hundreds of dollars at Disney to have a great time.
Florida has a lot ofsmaller amusement parksthat are still fun to visit but much less expensive.
If youre near Panama City Beach, Betts suggested spending some time at Swampy Jacks Wongo Adventure.
It costs between $3 and $10 per person.
you might fish from piers, boats or the shore youll just need a fishing license.
Fishing license prices vary, said McKay.
Anon-resident three-day licenseis $17, while a non-resident seven-day license is $30.
Pier access can range from free to $8 per day, she added.
Boat rentals vary widely, typically starting at around $50 per hour.
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