Check out these tips for a fabulous Florida Keys getaway
that won’t break the bank.
Don’t
travel on holidays. Mid-week and low season offer the best hotel prices.
Not only will you be getting the best value, the islands will be less crowded
and more enjoyable.
Get
a hotel room with a kitchen. Stop at the grocery
store on your way into town for snacks, drinks and simple meals. This way, you
won’t be at the mercy of a mini-bar or high-priced room service.
Utilize
the Chambers of Commerce. They’ll mail you information for free,
and their website has a calendar full of free or cheap festivals and events. At the visitor centers,
they have a variety coupon books, and the people who work there are incredibly
knowledgeable about the area.
Gas
up in Key Largo. As soon as you hit Key Largo, fill up
your tank. Gas goes up in price the further south you go.
Indulge at the seafood markets. Fresh
stone crabs, Florida lobster and Key West pink shrimp are sold at a premium at
the restaurants. Visit the Key Largo Fisheries, Keys Fisheries in
Marathon or the Eaton Street Seafood Market in Key West to get these local delicacies straight
from the boat and at a fraction of the price.
Take
a picnic to the beach. Want inexpensive waterfront dining? Many of the beaches have grills and
picnic tables. Head to Fort Zachary and cook up the goodies you bought at the market!
Try the upscale restaurants at lunch. If there’s an expensive restaurant that you are dying to try, see if they have a lunch menu. Often the
prices are cheaper for the same items—usually in smaller portions.
Shop
the discount stores. Beall’s Outlet often has souvenir t-shirts, and it’s a great place to shop for
any hot-weather gear you may never wear again. The Dollar Tree is perfect for
any toiletries or small items you many have forgotten, and Kmart has a nice selection
of inexpensive snorkel gear and water toys.
Explore
Cuban cuisine. Several Cuban restaurants like Denny’s
in Key Largo and El Siboney, Sandy’s and Four Brother’s in Key West have delicious
food at reasonable prices. Skip the Starbucks and get a café con leche for half
the price.
Take
advantage of happy hour. Many of the restaurants and bars
have amazing food and drink specials during happy hour. Have your fill, and then
go watch the sunset for free at a park or Mallory Square.
Got any more money-saving tips? Share them in the comments below!
