If you’re hoping to spend no more than $500 on a spring break full of drinks, beaches, and more drinks, why not spend hard-earned cash on an unforgettable vacation? Key West, FL is more than just an island; the Keys offer breath-taking beaches and protected wildlife that can’t be seen from an expensive booze cruise.
Kayaking the Keys offers exercise to avoid spring break weight gain, peaceful views, and private locations, which larger boats can’t access. Trips begin two miles from the first campsite, located at Tarpon Belly Island. The Atlantic Ocean waters are calm and warm, making the scenic two-hour trip enjoyable. Sea turtles are common in these areas and you may need to occasionally stop your kayak to let them pass.
Once arriving to Tarpon Belly, the surrounding endless ocean makes you feel at peace with the island’s seclusion. The private ocean channel running through the island not only offers amazing views, but also a chance to see nurse sharks and tropical fish up close.
Kayakers are free to travel to any island from Tarpon Belly. Eight miles out are Marvin’s Keys, only accessible by kayaks. Miles of sandbars in crystal light blue water surround each private island. These islands are full of wildlife, housing the only live coral reef in North America.
The reefs are home to starfish, brightly colored fish, nurse sharks (harmless to humans), conch shells, sea turtles, and barracudas, and it isn’t unlikely for a dolphin to swim right up to your kayak.
After the intense exercise from kayaking, a trip to the center of Key West is deserved. A local campsite, the KOA, is located on the main land and offers showers, a restaurant, and free shuttles to downtown Key West. The city’s center is filled with island shops, bars, and restaurants. Prices are reasonable, ranging from $2-$10 for an alcoholic drink and $10-$20 for a sit-down meal. Tours and water sports are offered for a higher fee ($50 for parasailing- $300 for dolphin sightings)- but who needs those after you already kayaked through it all?
Key West offers unforgettable ocean and wildlife views, as well as delectable food and beverage items on the island, all at an affordable price. Renting a kayak for a week ranges from $125 for a double person kayak to $150 for a single. Campsites are free, so the only money needed is for camp food (about $80 for the week) and island activities, food, and drinks (about $150 a person).
Spring break on a budget
Key West
By Michelle Burke