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| Sandcastle building at St. Joseph State Park in Florida. Nobody around for miles. |
By Matt Smolsky
If you've ever stayed in vacation rentals in the off season, you know how great it can be. Most tourist areas are in nice locations, weather-wise, so even if it's cooler, it's still pleasant compared to more wintery locations. Many attractions are still open (though some activities, such as para sailing, may not be), and the locals are glad to see you.
If you've ever stayed in vacation rentals in the off season, you know how great it can be. Most tourist areas are in nice locations, weather-wise, so even if it's cooler, it's still pleasant compared to more wintery locations. Many attractions are still open (though some activities, such as para sailing, may not be), and the locals are glad to see you.
While in
season travel is great because you'll have lots to do, going to a tourist area
in the height of their busy season has its drawbacks. Everything's more
expensive and crowded.
One big
advantage to off season travel is the lack of crowds. If your vacation rental
is in a heavily traveled tourist area, you'll have the unique and enjoyable
experience of having it nearly all to yourself. For example, staying in a Florida vacation rental during the off season means you can visit Florida's wonderful state
parks and see very few people. And when you hear the words "Florida state park," think beach.
You'll find
pristine, beautiful, wide open beaches perfect for sand castle building or long
walks. While a tan may take a bit longer to achieve, you can still throw down
your beach towel, lay back and have a nice nap in the sand and sun. Rather than
picnic on the beach with you and 100s of strangers, you can have a romantic lunch
or fun family gathering, and not see another person walk by.
Florida state
parks feature plenty of amenities--walking trails, interpretive centers, bike
rentals, areas to Jet Ski, and much more. There are plenty of them and they're
easy to get to.
