Top Cheap Long Weekend Trips Near South Florida

Sometimes so-called "staycations" just won't do. Luckily, South Florida is not the only nearby area in the panhandle state with wonderful offerings for a quick weekend of fun. These nearby destinations are just short drives away from South Florida cities and include such historic locations as West Palm Beach and such top beach destinations as Key Largo. Each of the nearby getaway locales include an affordable hotel to stay for the weekend as well as a number of activities and sightseeing to enjoy.

Bayside Inn Key Largo
99490 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 451-4450
www.baysidekeylargo.com

Key Largo features a tropical atmosphere with sandy beaches and lots of nature to take in and enjoy. The beach destination is popular for a number of reasons including the slow-paced, laid-back lifestyle of its community and because it offers many of the same natural attractions as Key West for less money and less of a drive. Enjoy everything from water sports and fishing to boating and diving – in fact, Key Largo boasts itself to be the dive capital of the world. There are plenty of possibilities for the entire family as well including swimming with the dolphins, golfing, theatre shows and ecological tours. Popular tourist attractions in the area include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Jacobs Aquatic Center and Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park.

Courtyard West Palm Beach
600 Northpoint Parkway
West Palm Beach, FL 33407
(561) 640-9000
www.marriott.com

West Palm Beach may be one of the wealthiest areas in the country, but it can still be enjoyed on a budget. Visitors may stroll down the ritzy Worth Avenue to have a nice lunch or leisurely coffee in the Florida sunshine while taking in what's new at stores such as Chanel and Dior. More affordable shopping is available at CityPlace and Clematis Street District as well as a number of dining options and nightlife venues. Wonderful tourist activities to enjoy include McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Norton Museum of Art, Palm Beach Zoo and the extraordinary, expansive Rapids Water Park.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Naples Downtown – 5th Avenue
1785 5th Ave. S.
Naples, FL 34102
(239) 261-3500
www.ihg.com

Naples is located on Florida's west coast so its beaches offer totally different experiences than those of South Florida. The Gulf Coast beaches are quiet and sandy stretches ideal for rest and relaxation. Naples is home to great shopping and plenty of culture offerings in the arts, most of which may be enjoyed at 5th Avenue South. Tourist attractions include the Bird Garden of Naples, LaPlaya Golf Course, Barefoot Beach and Clam Pass Recreation Area. Naples is home to great wildlife and nature and it's also known for its great local culture and the offerings of local shop owners.

Related: Top Day Trips For Under $100 In South Florida 

Seashell Beach Resort
57612 Overseas Highway
Marathon, FL 33050
(305) 289-0265
www.seashellbeachresort.com

Marathon makes for a great quick weekend out of town for those who want to enjoy nature and island life. Marathon is home to the famous Seven Mile Bridge and it's also a hop, skip and a jump for other keys such as Vaca Key and Grassy Key. There is much to do as far as water sports, beach activities and nature walks. The area is perfect for family trips or even romantic getaways and fishing or dining at local seafood establishments is a must.

Best Western Downtown Stuart
1209 S. Federal Highway
Stuart, FL 34994
(772) 287-6200
www.bestwestern.com

A weekend in Stuart offers a beautiful and peaceful weekend on the Treasure Coast of Florida. The city offers stunning, relaxing beaches with great fishing, sparkling clear waters, fun sandbars for all day enjoyment and more. Fishing lovers will be happy to hear that Stuart is known as the "Sailfish Capital of the World." Some of the tourist attractions to catch are the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, Halpatiokee Regional Park and The House of Refuge Museum.

Related: Summer Road Trip Checklist When Traveling With Kids

Chanoa Chen is a Fashion Merchandiser, Freelance Writer and Blogger. Chanoa has contributed stories to top firms including QVC Insider Germany and regularly contributes to CBS Local Miami and Examiner.com. She may be reached via: bokilovellc@gmail.com.