Last Updated on June 15, 2011 by Mike
Going On Vacation: Why It’s Time To Enjoy The Summer Off-Season Time In Florida
There’s a secret that most people don’t know about Florida: visiting the state in the off season is actually the best time to go.
It’s a well-known fact that the majority of folks will head to Florida in its peak season, which runs from December until Memorial Day. The goal behind it is the max exodus many are doing to get away from the cold, winters months in the north. However, people do visit the state in its off months, which runs from June until the end of November. And, for them, there is an array of benefits to be had after the greatest chunk of visitors has left.
Three Reasons Why You Should Visit Florida In Its Off Months
1 – Cost
The best reason to see the “Sunshine State” in its off months is the cost. After Memorial Day, every business, from the hotels to the restaurants to the boutique stores, feel the pain of the tourists leaving. These places will drop their prices to encourage the visitors (and locals) to spend their money.
While you get a cut-rate, the service is still top of the line. Customers still expect great service during the off season and business owners understand this. Since your business is greatly appreciated during these off-season months, the service is bound to be better.
2 – Taking In The Attractions
Another reason to enjoy the state in its off-season is the attractions you can visit without all the crowds to contend with. Think about how nice it would be to ride your favorite amusement ride without the hour or more wait. The shopping centers won’t be so crowded and you can find a parking space easier. The people waiting in line for a table at a restaurant are more likely the locals. Plus, the hotels and vehicle rental agencies will offer deep discounts and upgrades.
3 – Taking A Dip
Sure, the summer months means it’s hotter in the state. However, you don’t have to just sit back in a hotel room and enjoy the cool air. Rather, get out to the beach and enjoy a nice dip in the ocean (or Gulf of Mexico). You can also enjoy the hotel’s pool. When you’re out and about visiting the sites, you can get into an air-conditioned room and cool off that way.
Possible Hazard Of Going To Florida In The Off Season
Summer Florida vacations do have some potential hazards associated with them. Summer months are considered hurricane season with the peak of it in August and September. Thus, you need to keep in mind that these storms will form at any point and hit the state. Make sure you stay alert for warnings and prepare yourself with the necessary supplies. If a storm is serious enough, you might want to cut short the trip and head home before the store comes ashore.
Sure, it sounds a warning but remember this: there are millions of people living in Florida all the time and they enjoy the peak season with vacationers and the off-season benefits. For them, it’s worth going through the rough, threatening weather to have that all-enjoyable vacation.
With the economy just now turning for the better (according to government data), it’s nice to know that your family vacation doesn’t have to cost you an arm and leg to enjoy. Rather, enjoy the off-season Florida offers and get away from the hustle and bustle of your life.
Florida is an excellent vacation destination. You would love all the things about Florida if you visit the place.
I understand that it is always possible to plan for a vacation fitting the budget. Well there are few simple ways to cut down the vacation costs. A large part of the vacation cost comes in the form of accommodation costs. So if you are planning for a vacation pay particular attention to this item. If you travel during the off peak season you are surely going to get the hotel rooms at half its price or even lower. Moreover, you can ask for discounts to the hotels and bargain. This really works. I have tried it several times and it worked for me.
I never thought of vacationing in FL during the off-season, but I’m determined to find a killer deal for my two kids and I. We haven’t had a real vacation in 2 years, so I’m going to do everything I can to make this trip happen. So glad that there are ways to do this on a budget. This might be a great end-of-summer splurge before the kids are back in school. You’ve really given me a ot of info to get started with, thanks!
Thanks for all the great info! This is a huge help, I’m working hard to make a trip to Miami fit into the family budget and so many of these tips are useful. Normally when I find something about travelling on a budget, the tips are ludicrous and not in the least bit helpful. Thanks for offering solid tips for middle class people on a tight budget.
In addition to going to Florida during the off-season, you can reduce costs even more if you utilize coupons and Priceline. My favorite source for travel coupons is the “Entertainment Books.” They usually have fantastic discounts on attractions, rooms and dining! Since they come out around November, you can pick them up for a song this time of year. And if you are flexible where you stay, try bidding for a room on Priceline. I’ve routinely gotten 3 and 4 star hotels at 50-75% off the rack rate. Sometimes they cost about the same as a Motel 6!
If you plan to visit the Everglades, the summer is probably not the best time to go. According to the park service, “During the slow, wet season (summer), facilities may have restricted hours or close altogether, and recreational opportunities may be at a minimum.” So, yes, it would likely be cheaper, but you will not get likely get the full experience. Go in the winter if you want the full range of tours and programs that are offered.
Sure, it’s hot in Florida in the summer, but it’s not that bad. Here’s what I do to stay cool. I dress in loose, light colored clothing made of cotton. I drink plenty of water and usually carry a water bottle with me. I wear a hat nearly all the time when I am outside. Last but not least, I try to avoid being outdoors at the worst times when the heat peaks — usually around noon to 4:00 PM or so. This is a good time to go places with air conditioning (movie theatres, shopping malls) or hang out by the pool. But don’t forget to wear sun block!
I’ve been looking for a good time to visit Miami and Orlando – and the price difference is amazing, I was just checking after reading your article. You definitely hit the nail on the head. Looks like a mid-November trip will be affordable for family. Thanks for all the great ideas!
Informative article – thanks! However, if you are thinking of visiting Disney World, be aware that some of the busiest months are in Midsummer (June through early August). If you think about it, it makes sense — kids are off from school. In contrast, mid-August thru September are slow at Walt Disney World. It’s hot and humid and as the author notes, it is hurricane season, but the crowds are sparse and the prices are rock bottom. Disney has even been known to offer free dining packages during this time of year!