Florida or Southern Beaches

[bobotron3000]

My MIL and FIL want to take a Thursday - Sunday vacation in early October (they haven't gone on a vacation in decades!!) and asked me to plan it for them (they are also computer illiterate). The want a beach vacation and they mentioned Virginia Beach and Florida  but I wanted to see if there are better options or specific Florida beaches. Any ideas are appreciated - also, price is always a factor for them.

[muppetinma]

Where are they coming from and what do they like about a beach vacation? It might be a bit chilly in October in Virginia Beach if they want to lay out and swim.

[littlemisssunshine]

St. Augustine, FL!!! I love, love this town. Historical town, cultural things to do, good shopping, good food, and great beaches. Easy to walk around downtown area. Cheap too, if you don't splurge on an upscale hotel.

[bobotron3000]

They are in Ohio - I thought Virginia Beach might be too cold, too.

Thanks for the St. Augustine rec - looks beautiful!

[tinkerbell]

Hilton Head is a good option.

[caddywompus]

I would recommend St Augustine also. It will still be warm, and not vey crowded that time of year. There are a lot of hotels right on the beach, that aren't vey expensive. As well as some hotels right near the historic part of town. There is a lot to see and do, especially if they don't mind walking around. It really is a pedestrian friendly area.

[sa]

My ILs have a place in Ft. Lauderdale and they love it. They like the location because of the beaches and walkability and/or short drive to restaurants and shops.

[seabitch]

Ft Myers Beach, or Naples, FL.

[spunkarella]

I will second St. Augustine.

I also love Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach. I grew up going there most summers and have lots of good memories. It's an easy drive from Jacksonville if they're flying, very low key area, fairly inexpensive, minimal condos (mostly houses on the beach), with good restaurants, a cute downtown near the marina, and a few fun things to do. The downside is the beach isn't the pretty turquoise and white sand you get on the gulf or farther south. It's also not the place if they want to be going/doing lots of things, but it's great for relaxing and getting away.

On the gulf, we really enjoyed Okaloosa Island. Gorgeous white sand and turquoise water, near Destin and Panama City, but quieter and cheaper.

[frlcb]

In October anywhere in Destin or on 30A would be great, low crowds, beautiful weather and beaches.

[alleinesein]

Sarasota or Long Boat Key, FL. They are next to each other and the weather will be nice in October. The gulf is calm and warm so swimming is still an option and the beaches are very nice.