Vacation in Destin, Florida on a Budget

Destin Florida is a small island on the East Pass peninsula in the Gulf of Mexico, located off the coast of the Florida panhandle. Its position on Florida's "Emerald Coast" where the gulf waters has a green hue that is only accented by Destin's white sand beaches. This beautiful location has an advantage over other popular Florida vacation spots-location. It isn't the bustling hotspot that is Miami, and certainly not the Caribbean paradise that's the Florida Keys. This advantage makes Destin one affordable vacation spot for everyone.

Type of Vacation

Destin has golf, shopping, amusement and relaxation. Finding the best budget vacation in Destin depends on your vacation choice. For example, golf enthusiasts will find their best deals in vacation packages offered by the resorts in town. Sandestin Resort offers a golf package that includes free rounds of golf for as long as you stay at their resort. When you book your accommodations for the trip, ask about package deals that include shopping and/or amusement discounts.

Accommodations

There's more than resorts in Destin. Tourists have their choice of condos, cottages, homes or villas for rent. National chains also populate the island. the best deals depend on finding the accommodations that are just right for you group size. For example, couples can find a better deal with a single room and single bed than with a suite or cottage.

Families, however, will find that a vacation rental in Destin will accommodate the entire family at a price that is more budget friendly than the hotels and resorts. Look to realtors for the best deals on vacation rentals. The Destin Beach Realty has a home for rent for as little as $150 a night or $899 per week (check the website for availability). The homes featured on the site sleep anywhere from four to 12 people, plenty of room for a family or two to stay.

Location

Proximity to the beach and golf courses are a large factor in pricing your accommodations. Beachside locations will be the most expensive, with hotels and rentals located on the golf course coming in a close second place. For the best prices, opt for something inland. Fortunately, the island of East Pass at its widest point in Destin is only a little over three miles wide. That means a trip to the beach from town's interior will always be less than two miles-an easy walk. So, forgo the beach house for one that keep more money in your pocket. By the way, the Destin Beach Realty home mentioned previously was located a quarter of a mile from the Gulf.

Time Frame

Time greatly affects your costs as well. Book your vacation in the off season November through February for the best rates. Just after Labor Day is September through Halloween is a secondary off-peak season that offers decent discounts as well. Try to avoid holidays as well. Resorts and hotels tend to increase rates for these popular times, while vacations rentals may be already booked.

Special Considerations

Plan your budget before the vacation to ensure that you get the best bang for your buck. Outline the money that you have available for food, entertainment, amusement and accommodations, in addition to travel to and from Destin. This will help you determine the when you will go, where you will stay and what you will do on your vacation.