FIVE NO-GIMMICK WAYS TO SAVE THOUSANDS ON A SIESTA KEY VACATION
Vacations are essential for living happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Here’s how to travel farther without financial stress.
- Trade the Hotel Room for a Vacation Rental – Save Up to 50%
Vacation homes offer charm and intimacy, often at a lower cost than hotels. For example, a 1-bedroom vacation rental in Siesta Key costs $650/week, while nearby Tropical Breeze Resorts charge over $950/week. The savings could cover scooter rentals, massages, or breakfast for the week.
As your group size increases, so do your savings. A 3-bedroom house for 10 people is $1,400/week, or just $140 per person if fully occupied. That’s a saving of over 50% compared to booking multiple hotel rooms.
Note: You may need to forgo a pool, but with Siesta Key’s top-rated beach nearby, you won’t miss it.
- Start & Finish the Party at the Rental – Save $100 Per Day Per Couple
Host pre- and post-bar gatherings at your rental. It’s cheaper and allows for more control and privacy. A liter of Svedka vodka makes 22 drinks at about $1 each, saving $10 per drink compared to bars. Hosting cocktail hours can save over $150 for a couple in one day.
Take turns hosting among your group for added fun and creativity. A Madras (vodka, OJ, cranberry, and lime) is a great signature drink. Just remember to check curfews for shared outdoor areas and consider happy hours for a change of scenery.
- Save on Food – $100 Per Day Per Person
Dining out can be expensive. Instead, cook at home with simple, fresh ingredients. Grill fresh meats and pair them with sides from local markets. Publix, Walt’s Fish Market, and Pride of the South Barbecue offer great options at reasonable prices.
Avoid buying too many ingredients, and make hosting easier by keeping garbage bags visible, labeling cups, and centralizing the party. Alternate cleanup duties among family members.
Note: Check your rental’s fridge size before shopping. Consider early bird specials like Turtles-on-the-Bay for a change of pace.
- Skip the Amusement Parks – Save $800 Per Day and Your Sanity
Siesta Key’s beaches are free, while Disney costs $210 per day per person when you include tickets and food. While others are standing in line, waiting for rides, you’ll be enjoying the natural beauty of Siesta Key, saving up to $11,760 per week for a family of eight.
- Skip the Rental Car – Save $500 to $1,500 Per Week
Stay close to your main attractions to avoid the need for a rental car. Siesta Key also offers free taxis and a trolley service. If you need a car, book in advance and monitor rates for savings. Sites like AutoSlash and Expedia can help find deals.
Note: Ensure your accommodation is within walking distance of the beach to avoid parking and traffic hassles.
Bonus Tips: Save Big Money on Flights – Up to $400 Per Person
Use flight aggregators to find the best deals and be flexible with your travel dates. Avoid weekends and holidays for cheaper fares. Consider using lesser-known airports for departures and arrivals to save even more.
Cut out the middleman by booking directly with airlines when you find a suitable flight on an aggregator site.
Extra Savings on Vacation Rentals – 40% to 60%
As a property owner, I offer discounts for last-minute bookings, split stays, or pushing occupancy limits with kids. Last-minute bookings can save up to 60%. Splitting stays between properties can also result in discounts and upgrades.
For families with kids, I may allow exceeding the occupancy limit without additional charges.
