We decided to get up off the couch and go for an enjoyable summer drive on a budget! It was the best decision that we had made in a long time! We like sightseeing without breaking the bank! We don’t have to drive very far to enjoy some incredible summer scenery. God has made an absolutely gorgeous world to explore and enjoy. We gladly embark on exploring it as often as we possibly can. With a full tank of gas and a homemade picnic you can go on a day drive to enjoy your summer on a budget too! Check out what we saw!
Mexico Beach, Florida
Our first destination was Mexico Beach to the east of us. The day was just too pretty to stay at home and watch TV. We quickly agreed to fill up the gas tank and get out on the road. We packed a thermal bag with ice for our sandwiches, bottled water, and chocolate covered strawberries. It has been two and half years since Hurricane Michael devastated this area. We were greatly encouraged at the amount of rebuilding that has taken place. Mexico Beach looks great! It is an ideal destination for a family vacation! Everything is just so close to the water. Here is a photo gallery of what we saw.
The Shell Shack
When visiting Mexico Beach you must stop at the Shell Shack! It has the most memorable beach items to offer as a mementos to take back home with you. I live here in Florida and fell in love with the Shell Shack’s vibe. In addition to beachy souvenirs, the Shell Shack offers fresh fish and steamed shrimp at their seafood market. The Shell Shack has something for everyone. Here are a few pictures from the Shell Shack.
Port St. Joe, Florida
On our drive we decided to travel east a little further and explore Port St. Joe, Florida. Port St. Joe is a small coastal town with shoreline views and spectacular sunsets. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park has sugary white sandy beaches to enjoy. The park also offers pontoon boat, canoe, and kayak rentals for further fun. While I didn’t snap a picture of it, I highly recommend eating at Joe Mama’s Wood Fired Kitchen for authentic Italian cuisine. It is a fabulous place to scoot in to refuel when you are hungry. Be sure to check out the local shops and boutiques while in Port St. Joe for some neat finds. Good food, good shopping, and a beach in paradise! What more could you wish to discover to enjoy your summer travel on a shoestring budget?
Budget Friendly Conclusion
You too can enjoy a summer day trip on a shoestring budget. Here are the parameters we try to stay within when planning.
- Set a budget and grab a map to begin planning. A little research goes a long way into making your day trip a success.
- Stay Within a 2-3 hour radius of your hometown to easily drive back to spend the night at home unless you have the budget to overnight somewhere.
- Have a substantial breakfast before leaving and pack a generous lunch bag to picnic in a scenic spot or budget for a meal at a local restaurant along the way.
- Pack a beach bag with swimsuits, towels, a sheet to sit on, and sunscreen just in case you opt for a swim.
- Gas up before leaving your hometown.
- Take lots of pictures and videos to share your adventure with others.
- Make memories that last.
- Invest in your marriage, family, and friendships by enjoying simple day trips.
Summer can easily be enjoyed even when money is low by planning and taking a drive. A day trip invests in your relationships and creates memories to enjoy for a lifetime. Go ahead! Give it a try! I know you are going to love it!
Will have to try to go there.