27 Tourist Spots In Florida That Are Becoming Too Expensive

Florida’s charm hasn’t faded—but your budget might. From coastal escapes to world-famous theme parks, the Sunshine State is starting to feel more like a luxury than a laid-back getaway. Once-affordable favorites now come with sky-high hotel rates, inflated dining costs, and steep attraction fees.

For many travelers, the price tag of a Florida vacation is starting to rival the experience itself. Here’s a look at the beloved destinations where costs are rising fast—leaving visitors wondering if the sunshine is still worth the spend.

1. Key West

Paradise comes with a hefty price tag these days. Boutique hotels that once offered reasonable rates now demand premium dollars for even the most basic rooms. Seafood shacks where locals and tourists once mingled now serve $30 fish sandwiches.

The place has transformed from a quirky, laid-back island to one of Florida’s most expensive destinations. The southernmost point of Key West attracts visitors with its colorful conch houses and sunset celebrations, but budget travelers increasingly find themselves priced out.

2. Miami Beach (South Beach)

Glitz and glamour have always defined this coastal playground, but the price of admission has skyrocketed beyond reason. Oceanfront hotels routinely charge $500+ per night during peak season, while parking can set you back $50 daily.

Miami Beach has evolved from a vibrant cultural melting pot to an exclusive playground for the wealthy. The iconic Art Deco district still dazzles with neon lights and beautiful architecture, but experiencing it comes at a premium.

3. Walt Disney World (Orlando)

The magic kingdom has become the money kingdom for families hoping to create memorable vacations. Standard tickets now exceed $100 per person per day, while premium options like park-hopping push costs even higher.

The price increases in the Walt Disney World have outpaced inflation consistently for years. The introduction of paid services like Genie+ (replacing the once-free FastPass system) adds $15-$25 per person daily just to avoid the longest lines.

4. Universal Studios Florida (Orlando)

Thrill-seekers face wallet-draining experiences at this entertainment complex. Base admission has climbed steadily, now hovering around $109 for single-day access, while multi-park tickets cost substantially more.

Universal Studios Florida offers world-class attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but experiencing them without lengthy waits requires Express Passes that can double your daily cost. On-site hotels provide early park access but command premium rates starting at $300 nightly.

5. Naples

Luxury has become the standard rather than the exception in this Gulf Coast community. Boutique shopping districts in Naples feature designer brands where even window shopping feels exclusive, while beachfront dining routinely commands $40+ for basic entrees.

It has cultivated an atmosphere of refined elegance that attracts wealthy visitors and snowbirds. The pristine beaches and manicured golf courses create a paradise setting, but one that comes with five-star pricing throughout the year.

6. Marco Island

Beach paradise comes with platinum pricing on this exclusive island getaway. Waterfront condos that once represented reasonable vacation investments now fetch premium rental rates exceeding $400 nightly during peak season.

Marco Island’s limited footprint creates natural scarcity that drives prices upward year after year. The pristine beaches and spectacular sunsets continue drawing visitors, but budget-conscious travelers increasingly find themselves priced out of the market.

7. Sanibel Island

Recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian have dramatically reshaped the economics of visiting this beloved shelling destination. Limited accommodations due to storm damage have created a supply-demand imbalance, pushing remaining rental properties to premium rates.

The natural beauty remains spectacular, with beaches still offering world-class shelling opportunities. However, the cost of experiencing Sanibel Island’s unique ecosystem has climbed dramatically, with weekly rentals often exceeding $3,000 even for modest properties.

8. Clearwater Beach

Sugar-white sands attract premium prices at this Gulf Coast hotspot. Beachfront hotels routinely command $300-500 nightly during peak season, while even off-season rates rarely dip below $200 for basic accommodations.

Clearwater Beach has seen massive development in recent years, with luxury high-rises replacing more modest lodgings. The famous sunsets and crystal waters still dazzle, but experiencing them as an overnight guest requires significant financial resources.

9. St. Augustine

Historical charm now comes with modern pricing in America’s oldest city. Boutique hotels within the historic district routinely charge $250+ nightly, while even chain accommodations on the outskirts command premium rates during peak periods.

The cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture of St. Augustine continue drawing history buffs from around the world. However, ghost tours, trolley rides, and fortress admissions have all seen price increases that outpace inflation.

10. Fort Lauderdale

Waterfront luxury has replaced budget-friendly options in this once-accessible beach destination. Hotel developments increasingly cater to the high-end market, with new properties featuring rooftop pools and starting rates around $300 nightly.

Fort Lauderdale has actively repositioned itself away from its spring break past. The famous beach and Intracoastal Waterway remain stunning, but experiencing them from oceanfront accommodations requires substantially deeper pockets than just a decade ago.

11. Sarasota

Cultural richness increasingly comes with financial requirements in this Gulf Coast arts haven. Downtown hotel rates have climbed dramatically, with boutique properties routinely charging $300+ during the winter high season.

The combination of beautiful beaches and world-class cultural attractions in Sarasota creates unique appeal that drives premium pricing. The Ringling Museum complex, opera house, and other cultural venues have all increased admission fees substantially in recent years.

12. Boca Raton

Exclusive experiences define this upscale community where even basic tourism now comes with luxury pricing. Resort properties frequently start at $400+ nightly, with amenities and location driving rates much higher during season.

Boca Raton has cultivated an atmosphere of refined elegance that naturally commands premium prices. The pristine beaches feature limited public access points, while sprawling private clubs and resorts dominate prime waterfront locations.

13. Palm Beach

Playgrounds of the ultra-wealthy rarely offer bargains, and this island paradise proves the rule. Accommodations in Palm Beach start at eye-watering rates, with even modest options exceeding $500 nightly during season and luxury properties commanding thousands.

It has never pretended to be affordable, but recent years have seen prices climb to new heights. Worth Avenue shopping features global luxury brands where window shopping remains the only option for most visitors. Even beach access comes at a premium, with limited public entry points and parking that fills quickly, forcing visitors to nearby communities with shuttle services.

14. Destin

Emerald waters and sugar-white sands have attracted so many admirers that prices have surged beyond recognition in recent years. Beachfront condos in Destin that once represented affordable family vacations now command $300-500 nightly during summer months.

The popularity has exploded, transforming this once-sleepy fishing village into a major tourist destination. The harbor district features restaurants where fresh seafood platters routinely exceed $35, while boat excursions have similarly climbed in price.

15. Key Largo

Underwater adventures come with overwater pricing at the gateway to the Florida Keys. Diving and snorkeling excursions that once represented reasonable recreation now routinely cost $75-150 per person for basic half-day experiences.

Key Largo offers spectacular reef access and the famous John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. However, accommodations have climbed dramatically in price, with roadside motels often charging $200+ nightly and waterfront properties exceeding $400.

16. Anna Maria Island

Quaint beach town charm now comes with luxury pricing on this barrier island paradise. Vacation rentals have seen astronomical price increases, with basic cottages often exceeding $2,500 weekly during prime months and beachfront properties commanding much more.

The strict building height restrictions in Anna Maria Island preserve its old Florida character but limit accommodation supply. The resulting scarcity drives premium pricing throughout the island, from rentals to restaurants to basic services. Even simple pleasures like ice cream and beach gear rentals reflect the island’s upscale evolution.

17. Tampa Riverwalk

Urban waterfront renewal has created a beautiful but increasingly pricey entertainment district along the Hillsborough River. Hotels overlooking the water feature rooftop bars and premium rates starting around $250 nightly, with special event periods commanding much more.

Tampa Riverwalk connects cultural venues, restaurants, and parks in a pedestrian-friendly corridor that’s become the city’s tourism centerpiece. However, dining along the 2.6-mile path means $15+ cocktails and $25+ entrees have become standard rather than splurges.

18. Siesta Key

Award-winning white quartz sand beaches attract premium prices on this barrier island paradise. Accommodations in Siesta Key have seen some of Florida’s steepest increases, with basic hotel rooms rarely available below $250 nightly and beachfront properties often exceeding $500.

The limited size creates natural constraints on development, driving prices higher as demand continues growing. The village area features restaurants where dinner for two easily exceeds $100, while even casual beach bars charge premium rates.

19. Amelia Island

Victorian charm meets modern pricing on this northeastern Florida island getaway. Luxury resorts have set the tone, with properties like the Ritz-Carlton commanding $500+ nightly, while even modest accommodations rarely dip below $200 during peak periods.

Amelia Island combines historical appeal with natural beauty, creating unique allure that drives premium pricing. The quaint downtown features boutique shopping and restaurants where dinner entrees routinely exceed $30, reflecting the island’s upscale positioning.

20. Islamorada

Sportfishing capital status comes with trophy-sized prices in this Florida Keys hotspot. Charter boats that once represented reasonable recreation now routinely charge $1,200+ for half-day excursions, placing serious fishing beyond many visitors’ budgets.

This destination offers spectacular water access and the famous Robbie’s marina where feeding tarpon remains affordable fun. However, accommodations in Islamorada have steadily climbed, with roadside motels often exceeding $250 nightly and waterfront properties commanding $400+.

21. Everglades Airboat Tours

Wilderness experiences have seen wild price increases in recent years. Standard one-hour airboat tours that once cost $25-30 per person now routinely command $50-75, while premium private excursions can exceed $200 per hour.

Everglades airboat tours offer unparalleled access to Florida’s remarkable river of grass ecosystem. The opportunity to spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat remains spectacular, but tour operators have steadily increased rates as operating costs and demand have grown.

22. Downtown Orlando

Urban excitement beyond the theme parks comes with metropolitan pricing in Central Florida’s hub. Hotels catering to business and leisure travelers have steadily increased rates, with downtown properties rarely available below $200 nightly and often exceeding $300 during events.

Orlando city center offers vibrant nightlife, arts venues, and sports facilities that attract visitors beyond the theme park crowds. However, parking typically costs $20+ daily, while restaurants and bars charge prices comparable to much larger cities.

23. Panama City Beach

Spring break central has graduated to year-round premium pricing along its 27 miles of stunning coastline. Beachfront condos and hotels that once offered reasonable rates now routinely charge $250-400 nightly during summer months, with spring break periods commanding similar premiums.

Panama City Beach has actively repositioned itself as a family destination rather than party central. The emerald waters and sugar-white sands remain spectacular, but experiencing them from gulf-front accommodations requires substantially more financial resources than a decade ago.

24. The Villages

Retirement paradise has become a surprisingly pricey tourist destination for those visiting family or exploring potential relocation. Short-term rentals in the Villages command premium rates due to high demand, with basic villas rarely available below $150 nightly and often exceeding $200 during peak season.

The area offers a unique glimpse into active adult community living with its countless golf courses, town squares, and activities. However, golf fees for non-residents have climbed steadily, while restaurants throughout the massive community have similarly increased prices.

25. Fort Myers

Recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian have reshaped the economics of visiting this popular Gulf Coast destination. Limited accommodations due to storm damage have created supply-demand imbalances, pushing remaining hotel rooms and vacation rentals to premium rates.

Fort Myers and nearby Fort Myers Beach continue rebuilding their tourism infrastructure. The beautiful beaches and natural areas remain spectacular draws, but visitors now face higher prices for fewer options throughout the region.

26. Cape Canaveral / Kennedy Space Center

Space tourism on Earth comes with astronomical pricing these days. Kennedy Space Center admission has steadily climbed to $75+ for basic adult tickets, while enhanced experiences like special tours can easily double that investment.

The unique opportunity to witness rocket launches in Cape Canaveral and explore space history continues drawing visitors from around the world. However, accommodations during launch periods command premium rates, with basic hotels often exceeding $200 nightly when missions are scheduled.

27. West Palm Beach

Mainland luxury adjacent to Palm Beach island comes with increasingly similar pricing despite the bridge separating them. Downtown hotels in West Palm Beach catering to business and leisure travelers routinely charge $250+ nightly during season, with premium properties exceeding $400.

It has evolved from Palm Beach’s affordable alternative to a destination in its own right. The area offers wonderful urban experiences with easier beach access than Miami, but increasingly requires the same budget considerations as its famous island neighbor.