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How To Find The Best Deals On Florida Beach House Rentals

Maxx — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 05:34:55 +0000

Florida is located in the southeastern United States with the Gulf of Mexico on the west and the Atlantic Ocean on the east. The majority of the state has a humid subtropical climate; with the exception of southern Florida which has a tropical climate. In other words, it's hot year-round!

Florida's economy relies heavily on tourism. The majority of tourists visit between the months of October and December. The peak season (a.k.a. "most expensive") falls between November and April, while the off-season falls between May and October.

Florida is home to millions of retirees. Due to the high humidity and brutal summer heat, many elders own a secondary home in cooler locations. A large percentage of retirees who own beach houses are eager to rent their homes during the hotter summer months. Lovingly referred to as "Snowbirds," these individuals return to their secondary homes between the months of June to November. If you can stand the heat and humidity, you could potentially save yourself a lot of money by renting from a Snowbird during the hotter months.

There are many reputable companies who offer beach house rentals. However, if you work directly with the owner, you put yourself in position to negotiate a better deal. Property management companies are paid based on commission and not easily persuaded into lowering rates. Additionally, when you are able to speak directly with the owner, you can learn valuable tips about the area, and proximity of attractions you wish to visit during your stay.

Many great beach house rental deals await you via the Internet. Obviously, you'll need to use caution and thoroughly research the individual you are dealing with. You have the right to conduct a background search and verify references on the person you will be renting from. Reputable individuals will graciously provide you with the information required to conduct a background check. Beach house rental properties can cost more than $1,000 per week. Be certain you know who you are handing your hard-earned cash over to.

There are several reputable travel organizations that can help you put together a vacation package to suit your needs. In order to get the best deal, sign-up as a member. Places like Expedia, Travelocity, Priceline and Orbitz are free to join. These types of companies will help you find the best deals on airline tickets, car rentals, sightseeing adventures, and more. However, most do not deal with beach house rentals. You will need to do that part on your own.

One of the best ways to get a great deal on a beach house rental in Florida is to rent in less populated cities and towns. There are some fabulous finds tucked away in these quaint and charming areas. Generally, the locals are more laid-back and friendly; restaurant prices are lower; and many of the towns and cities are located within 10 to 20 miles of metropolitan cities and major attractions.

Home exchange programs are quickly becoming a favorable option for those who love to travel. Home exchange programs work by bringing together individuals who each own a home in an area the other person(s) wishes to visit.

Let's say you live in Napa Valley, California and are looking to rent a beach house in Naples, Florida. Chances are good that someone with a beach house in Naples is interested in visiting Napa Valley.

Everyone interested in home exchange are able to list information about their property, as well as what they are looking for in exchange. If travel dates and details work out, both parties reside in each other's home at no cost.

Using a home exchange service can save you thousands in accommodation expenses. There are many reputable home exchange companies available via the Internet. Make certain you thoroughly research the company and understand their policies before committing to using their service. After you have decided upon a company, you will then correspond directly with the owner to make all final arrangements. To learn more about home exchange programs, type in "Vacation Home Exchange" at your favorite search engine.

Cost Of Renting A Beach House In Florida

Maxx — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 21:32:55 +0000

When making vacation plans that include a visit to the beaches of Florida; consider renting a beach house. Not only will you have all the comforts of home available, you could also save a considerable amount of money.

Florida is divided into eight sections: Northwest, North Central, Northeast, Central West, Central, Central East, Southwest and Southeast. Many of the popular tourist attractions such as Walt Disney World Resort and Wet 'N Wild Water Park are located in Central Florida. However, there are no beach house rentals in this area.

Since this article focuses on the cost of renting a beach house, Central Florida rental costs are not included. There are numerous vacation rental homes available in this area; many of which include pools. To locate reputable resources for vacation rental homes in Central Florida visit the "Official Florida Website".

Most beach house rental properties are attractively furnished and include basic amenities such as cooking appliances and cookware, linens and towels, televisions, stereos, telephones, and Internet access. Many are equipped with swimming pools, hot tubs, spas and outdoor showers.

Some Florida beach house rental properties include access to golf courses or community clubhouses. Others include boats and other watercraft rental. Many include amenities for children such as inflatable backyard swimming pools and water slides, play houses, and swing sets.

Most Florida beach house rentals are offered by private individuals or property management organizations. Some are pet-friendly and many offer handicap accessibility. Beach houses can be rented daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or for an entire season. It's important to note there is a 9.5 percent lodging tax added to rental rates.

Last, but not least, nearly every beach house owner requires a 50 percent deposit due within ten days from the date you make your reservation. Additionally, most charge a Reservation Fee (usually $50 to $150); and a refundable Damage Deposit (approximately $200 to $500). Other fees may include pet deposits or cancellation penalties.

Northwest: Popular destinations in this area include Pensacola, Panama City, Destin and Fort Walton Beach. The average beach house rental in this area consists of a 2-3 bedroom home which includes 1-2 bathrooms, living room, dining room, kitchen, and laundry/utility room. Generally, rental rates range from $650 to $1200 per week.

You can also find quaint one bedroom cottages or spacious three-story homes with rooftop balconies and crows nest for an expansive view of the ocean.

Attractions in Northwest Florida include Belmont Arts and Cultural Center, Pensacola Scenic Bluffs Highway, Sam's Fun City, Charter Boat Fishing, Water Sports, Museums, and Historic Sites.

Northeast: This area is home to Amelia Island, Jacksonville and St. Augustine. Beach house rentals range in price from $800 to $1500 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home. Palm Coast offers the most affordable beach house rental rates, while Amelia Island and St. Augustine are more expensive.

Attractions in Northeast Florida include the Budweiser Brewery Tour, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Cruises and Fishing Charters, multiple museums and historic sites, and an abundance of entertainment and nightlife.

North Central: This area includes the coastal cities of Gainesville, Levy, Dixie, Taylor, Wakulla and Alacuha. For the most part, beach house rentals in this area are actually located on rivers and bays. Homes in this area offer a more "woodsy" feel, as many are located in secluded locations.

Vacation home rental prices range from $400 to $650 per week in this area. Oftentimes, vacation homes in North Central Florida can be found for as little as $1200 per month.

Attractions include Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, Florida Museum of Natural History, NHRA racing, Waldo's Antique Village, guided and unguided kayak and canoe trips, and an abundance of outdoor activities.

Central West: Here you'll find St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota, Brandenton and Tampa. The average cost of a rental beach house in Central West Florida is approximately $800 per week for a two bedroom, one bathroom home.

Popular attractions include the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Courtney Campbell Scenic Highway, St. Petersburg Pier (most recognized waterfront landmark), The Pier Aquarium, Sunken Gardens, Captain Memo's Original Pirate Cruise, Saltwater Fishing Charters, Museums, and Trail of the Lost Tribes (a nonprofit network of 28 archaeological sites, parks, and museums).

Central East: Most of Florida's quaint and intimate beaches are located in this area. Charming beach house rentals are abundant in Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater, Cocoa Beach, Melbourne, and Vero Beach.

New Smyrna Beach and Edgewater offer some of the best rental rates in the area, with rates starting as low as $250 per week. Not only that, they are located on some of Florida's most beautiful stretch of white sandy beaches and are considerably less crowded than other locations.

Central East Florida attractions include Daytona USA Speedway tours, Highland Park Fish Camp, Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center and Visual Arts Gallery, Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, Manatee Scenic Cruises, St. Johns River Cruises, Deep Sea Fishing, Sky Diving, Water Sports, and New Smyrna Dunes Park.

Southwest: This area attracts tourists who enjoy the finer things in life. Naples, Everglades City, Marco Island and Cape Coral are just a few of the gems you'll find in this area of Florida. Beach house rentals in this area range between $1500 and $6500 per week. The majority of beach houses include enclosed swimming pools, golf courses and recreational facilities. Many are in gated communities.

Popular attractions include Naples Botanical Garden, Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, Everglades adventure tours, kayaking and canoeing, Airboat excursions, and saltwater fishing charters.

Southeast: For those who enjoy hot weather and hot fun, Southeast Florida is the place to be. Home to Miami, Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Key Largo and Key West, this area of Florida offers an abundance of high energy activities, concerts, restaurants, and nightlife.

Rates for rental beach houses in Southeast Florida range between $2500 and $10,000 per week. Ft. Lauderdale rentals start at around $1500 per week, while rentals in Palm Beach can be found for $900 per week or less. Key Largo and Key West rental properties range between $975 and $8500 per week.

Southeast Florida is rich in culture and offers an abundance of culinary delights and exciting nightlife activities. Popular attractions include Everglades Alligator Farm, Miami Beach Botanical Garden, Miami Seaquarium, Monkey Jungle, Parrot Jungle Island, Ecological Tours and Adventure Expeditions, Yacht charters and cruises, museums and historic sites.

Seven Tips To Save Big Money When Renting A Beach House In Florida

Maxx — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 04:09:55 +0000

According to "Visit Florida Research," more than 80 million tourists visited Florida in 2006. Of those tourists, 17 million visited during the months of October through December, which is considered the "peak" season. In other words, sleeping accommodations cost considerably more.

Tip #1: One of the easiest ways to save money when renting a beach house in Florida is to rent during the off-season. Florida's off-season falls between May and October, while the peak season falls between November and April. Although temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months, the gentle ocean breezes and close proximity to the water can help you stay cool. If you can stand the heat and humidity, you can save yourself a nice chunk of change.

Tip #2: Vacation with friends and share the expenses. Many Florida beach house rentals accommodate up to 10 or more people. These larger homes oftentimes provide extra amenities such as swimming pools, Jacuzzis, spas, golf courses, and community clubhouses. While you might not be able to afford to rent a $10,000 beach house on your own, if nine more of your buddies join in, you could be living the lifestyle of a celebrity for only $1,000 a week. Rent during the off-season and you could save up to 50 percent.

Tip #3: Cook at your beach house rental. It can become quite costly to dine out for every meal during your vacation. Most beach house rentals include kitchen appliances and cookware. Many include outdoor gas grills or patio kitchens. Fresh produce and fish can be purchased year round in Florida. Visit local Farmer's and Fish Markets and indulge in a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. By cooking just half of your meals in your beach house rental, you could potentially save up to $1,000 or more for a family of four.

Tip #4: Rent from a private individual. When you rent directly from the beach house owner, you have a better opportunity for negotiation than if you work with a property management organization. Property management organizations oftentimes are unfamiliar with the property and unable to answer questions about the property location or condition. You'll want to verify references, conduct research on the area of the rental home, and use additional precautions to insure you aren't being scammed. However, if you use common sense and trust your instincts, chances are good that you will have a rewarding experience.

Tip #5: Rent in small cities or towns. Some of the best beach house rental deals can be found in less populated areas. An added bonus is the beaches are less congested and you can have more peace and quiet. There are numerous small towns within 10 or 20 miles from major metropolitan cities. Even with higher gas prices, the money you save by renting a beach house in a small city or town will more than compensate for the extra driving.

Tip #6: Invest in a vacation package. There are many travel services available via the Internet, or work with a travel agent to arrange a vacation package. Vacation packages can include airline, rental car, rental homes or hotel arrangements, cruises, sightseeing adventures and more. Oftentimes, you can save 50 percent or more by packaging your vacation needs.

Tip #7: Exchange your home for a beach house rental. Home Exchanges are quickly becoming a popular option for people who love to travel. How it works is you allow an individual or family to stay in your home while you stay in their home. There is no cost involved, making home exchange a win-win situation. There are many reputable home exchange companies available via the Internet. Make certain you thoroughly research the company and understand their policies before committing to using their service.

Tips For Renting A Beach House In Key West

Maxx — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:31:55 +0000

Key West is the last Florida key located in a string of islands known as the Florida Keys. It is oftentimes referred to as "The Last Resort", because of its location in the southernmost point of the continental U.S.

Key West is rich in history and culture. It is stated that Juan Ponce de Leon was the first European to visit Key West while on his quest to find the Fountain of Youth. During the time Florida was a Spanish colony, Key West became an established fishing and salvage village. Today it is a wealthy little tourist town.

Key West's original Spanish name was Cayo Hueso (ki-yo-way-so), meaning "bone key". According to history books, it is claimed that when the Spanish arrived at Key West, it was littered with bones. Researchers assume these bones are from an Indian battlefield or burial ground; making it a sacred location which is honored by both locals and tourists.

The Florida Keys seceded from the United States in 1982 and became the "Conch Republic". This secession began as an act in response to a U.S. Border Patrol Blockade, which basically cut off Florida Keys residents from the mainland. You can learn all about it by typing in "Conch Republic" at your favorite search engine. It's quite an interesting tale.

People who live in the Florida Keys consider themselves both Americans and Conchs. Both flags are displayed and every April, a week-long celebration takes place to celebrate their Independence. Conch's are passionate about being a Conch, so if you're planning a visit to Key West, be certain to do your homework on this topic.

Technically, the Florida Keys are their own country and different laws apply. They have their own Government, Navy, and official Passport. While Key West residents are fierce about their independence, they are also fun-loving and passionate about having a good time.

Key West is one of the most exotic and beautiful places on Earth. Approximately 27,000 people are full time residents. The majority are laid-back and friendly people, who enjoy the coastal lifestyle and sharing it with tourists.

One of the first things you'll want to do is to obtain literature about Key West. Numerous resources are available via the Internet. Type in "Key West" or "Conch Republic" and you'll be well on your way to learning about this tropical paradise.

Search for visitor guides as well. Most companies will mail you printed material and some include informative CDs you can view from your computer. Oftentimes, these printed materials include special offers and additional resources for beach house rentals, along with discount coupons for restaurants and events.

It's a good idea to subscribe to newsletters and local guides, or read the Key West newspaper online. Oftentimes, you can locate great deals on rental beach houses in the classified sections of these publications.

Since Key West is an island, the majority of homes are considered beach houses. This makes it pretty easy to locate a beach house in nearly any area you wish to visit. Most are beautifully decorated in the bright and spicy colors of the Caribbean. Selections include historic homes, cozy cottages, tropical estates, and even private island homes!

Visit the official websites for Key West to locate reputable individuals and rental companies. Also check Craig's List or work with a local travel agent.

Key West offers an abundance of restaurants, unique boutiques, entertainment, and outdoor recreation. It is also a fabulous location to simply RELAX!

Florida Beach House Rentals For People With Disabilities

Maxx — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 18:37:55 +0000

Without a doubt, Florida is one of the most exotic and popular tourist destinations in the world. It's abundance of water, outdoor activities, national parks, and adventure activities attract millions of visitors annually.

Oftentimes, people with disabilities overlook this beautiful state because of the abundance of outdoor activities. However, Florida offers the "Travel Without Boundaries" program to ensure visitors with disabilities experience a wonderful, hassle-free vacation.

Information on the program can be found by typing "Travel Without Boundaries in Florida" at your favorite search engine. This tool provides travel tips and valuable resources to help those with special needs plan their Florida vacation.

It's important to remember that Florida is home to many retirees. Approximately one-quarter of these individuals own beach houses which are handicap accessible. Referred to as "Snowbirds", the majority of these retirees own a secondary home in a cooler location. Oftentimes they leave the state of Florida during the months of June through November. Many are eager to rent their property while they are gone.

To locate handicap accessible beach house rentals in Florida, search the Classifieds section of local papers for beach house rental properties. These can be found by typing in the name of the area you wish to visit, plus the word "newspaper" at your favorite search engine. For instance, if you are looking for a beach house rental in Naples, type in "Naples Florida Newspaper".

Another source for finding handicap accessible beach house rentals in Florida is the Florida Pennysaver. Not only can you find great deals on rental properties, you'll also discover discount coupons for restaurants, shopping, and local attractions.

There are many property management companies located in Florida who can help you locate beach house rentals with handicap access or other special needs requests. Beach house rentals can be found via the Internet by typing in "Handicap Accessible Beach House Rentals in Florida".

Another option is the use of a home exchange service, which allows individuals to swap homes for a specified period of time. Additionally, "Craig's List" is a popular resource for finding beach house rentals with handicap accessibility in Florida and throughout the U.S.

Florida is a tourist state and provides numerous activities for individuals with disabilities. The "Visit Florida" website includes information about "Beach Wheels"; a service for individuals unable to walk and those who possess a Disabled Parking Permit.

All of the major attractions such as Kennedy Space Center, Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center and SeaWorld, provide Access Guides to help special needs tourist learn the best ways to get around the park. These guides include maps and designated locations to ensure your visit is easily accessible and frustration-free.

"Wheelchairs on the Go: Accessible Fun in Florida," is a 424-page paperback book that lists wheelchair accessible accommodations, attractions, and activities throughout the entire state of Florida. Check to see if your local library has a copy on file. The book can also be ordered online for about $20. Written by Randy Stigleman, a quadriplegic, and his wife Michelle; this book is a must-have for anyone with disabilities planning a visit to Florida.

The Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality (SATH) offers an abundance of travel tips and resources for people with special needs. Everything you need to know about traveling is posted on the SATH website including air travel tips, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines, and much more.

If you plan to rent a car while in Key West, consider using Avis. They offer "Avis Access", a comprehensive accessibility program for travelers with disabilities. Special options include swivel seats, spinner knobs, panoramic mirrors, hand controls, and more.

Last, but not least, The Able Trust, is a non-profit foundation established in 1990 to assist Floridians with disabilities. Their website provides a list of disability links and resources to further help those with special needs plan a safe, fun-filled Florida vacation.

When To Rent A Beach House In Florida

Maxx — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 01:53:55 +0000

Each year millions of tourists flock to Florida to soak up the sun and have fun in the water. For the most part, families visit Florida during the summer months to accommodate their children's school schedule. Unfortunately, this is the "peak season" and hotel accommodations are higher than during the off-season.

A solution to this problem is to rent a beach house. While you might be thinking a beach house would be too expensive, consider this…

Temperatures can rise to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the months of June through August. Many residents leave the state during the hotter summer months and are eager to rent their home to tourists.

Additionally, Florida is a tourist state and many residents purchase beach homes with the sole intent of using them for rental properties. It's fairly easy to locate a reasonably priced beach house; particularly during the hot and humid summer months.

For the most part, beach house owners advertise their rental beach homes in the Classifieds section of the local paper, or through online forums such as Craig's List. Others use the services of a property management organization.

Nearly every type of beach house imaginable is available for rent in Florida. You can find beach houses located in major metropolitan cities or small towns. They range in size from small cottages to private island retreats; complete with a swimming pool, maid service, butler and chef.

It's important to note that Florida's hurricane season is in effect from June through November. When you make your reservation, be certain to clarify refund policies should a hurricane or tropical storm cause you to delay your visit.

If you plan to visit Florida during the winter months, keep in mind that prices are generally higher. You can still find great deals on beach house rentals; however the peak season falls between November and April. You'll find the best beach house rental deals during the months of May through October.

Florida prides itself on being one of the most easily accessible states for visitors who have special needs. The "Visit Florida" website includes a special section for visitors with disabilities, which provides numerous travel tips and helpful resources. Many beach house rentals are wheelchair and handicap accessible.

Last, but not least, a popular option for those who love to travel is using a home exchange program. This type of accommodation service has been used for nearly 50 years in Europe and is a relatively risk-free opportunity to obtain free housing.

Home Exchange programs work by connecting individuals who are willing to exchange their home with another individual or family for a specified period of time. Home exchanges generally take four to six months to complete and require extensive planning. However, if you are willing to conduct research, you could potentially save yourself thousands of dollars in travel expenses.

The sun shines over 300 days per year in Florida. The weather is nearly perfect year-round, although temperatures can dip into the low 20s and 30s during the months of December through February. For the most part, all of the time is a good time to rent a beach house in Florida!

You'll find an abundance of restaurants, shopping, water sports, hiking, biking and other outdoor activities; as well as adventure parks, entertainment and multiple museums. And, if you simply want to get away from it all, there's no better place to escape than the beautiful beaches of Florida.

Using A Home Exchange To Rent A Beach House In Florida

Maxx — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 18:40:55 +0000

Are you dreaming about visiting the beautiful, balmy beaches of Florida? Do you live in an area where others would like to visit or get away from it all? Would you like to take a vacation and not have to spend a dime on sleeping accommodations? If so, a home exchange service could be the perfect solution!

When the movie, "The Holiday", starring Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, and Jack Black hit the big screen in December 2006, many Americans became aware of home exchange programs. However, the Europeans have been using home exchange programs for nearly 50 years.

Basically, there are two types of exchange programs: home exchange and hospitality exchange. With home exchange, you swap houses with another interested party. They stay in your home, while you stay in theirs. With hospitality exchange, you host visitors in your home for a specified period of time, than they host you in their home for the same amount of time.

Most people prefer using a home exchange opposed to hospitality exchange, as they feel somewhat awkward inviting guests they do not know to stay with them. And, while you might be somewhat apprehensive to allow strangers into your home unattended, most home exchange programs allow you to develop a personal relationship with the individuals long before the exchange takes place.

According to Rotary Home Exchange, more than 250,000 successful exchanges occur annually. The majority of home exchange organizations require a membership fee. These generally range from $50 to $200 per year.

This fee allows you to post information about your home, including photos. In your listing, you can list specific details such as whether your home is pet-friendly, allows indoor smoking, is handicap accessible, and what amenities are included. Additionally, you can include a detailed description of the type of home and location of where you would like to visit.

Using a home exchange service provides you with more flexibility than booking a hotel reservation or searching for a beach house on your own. It also provides you with the opportunity to meet new friends and offers the benefit of knowing your home is being looked after while you are away. It also allows you to stay in a nice home for free!

Every home exchange is unique and dependent upon developing a relationship of mutual goodwill and trust. Obviously, there are some risks involved. But, there are also risks involved with booking a hotel reservation or locating a beach house rental. The difference is that the people you are exchanging homes with are taking the same risk.

There are many reputable home exchange services available via the Internet. To locate the different organizations, type in "Home Exchange Service" at your favorite search engine and begin researching the ones of interest to you.

You'll want to spend several hours conducting research on each organization before making your final decision. Visit each website in order to determine which service offers the types of homes in locations you desire. Once you have made your selection, sign-up as a member and begin entering your information.

Never, ever exaggerate information about your home. If you reside in a small home out in the middle of "nowhere", you might be surprised at how many people are looking for a place where they can get away from it all. Focus on providing information about the benefits staying in your home will offer to potential visitors, and be honest about what type of home you own.

Home exchangers consist of people from all walks of life. Some are single, others are married, and many have children. You can decide what type of person you prefer to exchange with and how long you would like to exchange. Generally, it takes four to six months to complete the transaction, so allow plenty of lead time.

If you do your research and plan ahead, you can potentially save thousands of dollars in accommodation expenses by using a home exchange service. Give it a try. You just might discover a new way to explore the world!

Things To Know Before You Rent A Beach House In Florida

Maxx — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 18:09:55 +0000

With over 663 miles of beaches and 11,000 miles of rivers, streams and waterways; Florida is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States. It is said that if you were to walk one mile of Florida beach daily, it would take you more than two and one-half years to walk the entire coastline.

Renting a beach house is the perfect way to explore Florida's expansive coastline. In fact, Florida has more beach house rentals than any other state. Most beach house rental properties are attractively furnished and include basic amenities such as cooking appliances and cookware, linens and towels, televisions, stereos, telephones, and Internet access. Many are equipped with swimming pools, hot tubs, spas and outdoor showers.

Some Florida beach house rental properties include access to golf courses, golf carts, boats, watercraft, fishing tackle, bicycles, tennis courts, racquetball, etc. Many include amenities for children such as playgrounds, inflatable backyard swimming pools and water slides, play houses and swing sets.

Most Florida beach house rentals are offered by private individuals or property management organizations. Some are pet-friendly and many offer handicap accessibility. These beachfront beauties can be rented daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or for an entire season.

For those who bring their pets along, a pet deposit is usually required. Oftentimes, renters with pets are required to pay deposits of $500 or more per pet. Owners may also charge a higher rental rate. Some owners will return the deposit if no damages occur, while others charge a non-refundable deposit. Always obtain pet regulations in writing before signing a rental agreement.

Be aware that each township has their own set of rules regarding pets on the beach. Some beaches allow pets, but have strict waste pick-up rules with hefty fines for those who do not comply. Others do not allow pets and fines of up to $500 can be imposed if you bring your pet to the beach.

Very few Florida beach house rentals allow smoking inside the home. Those that do allow indoor smoking generally require a higher security deposit and may charge higher rental rates. If you rent a non-smoking beach house and smoke inside, it is considered a breech of contract and you will forfeit your security deposit and may be charged with additional cleaning fees. If you are a smoker, be certain to have the rules in writing before signing the rental contract.

When looking for a beach house rental in Florida it's important to realize that the term "beach" means different things in different locations. For instance, beaches can be on bays rather than oceans. It's important to clarify exactly where the property is located when responding to ads that use terms such as "ocean view", "steps to the beach", or "beach accessibility". Scrutinize these terms and obtain clarity before acceptance of any rental agreement.

If you plan to bring your own boat or other watercraft, be certain to inquire about docking your boat at the rental property. Oftentimes additional charges are incurred for use of boat docks when renting a beach house property. Additionally, inquire about access to the major waterways you wish to utilize. Google Earth provides satellite images of neighborhoods and surrounding areas and can be a beneficial tool in helping you determine if the beach house rental is in a favorable location for your needs.

Florida is known for its balmy weather. Winters are mild with temperatures averaging around 53 degrees Fahrenheit in Northern Florida to 68 degrees in Southern Florida. The summer months can be long and hot with temperatures averaging in the low- to mid-80's in the north, and mid- to high-80's in the south. July and August are oftentimes brutally hot with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees. Hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th. Always inquire about the renter's refund policy should a hurricane warning be issued before or during your stay.

A nice bonus of renting a beach house in Florida is the coastal areas experience gentle breezes during the summer. However, it's important to realize the rainy season begins in May and continues through October. If you visit Florida during this time, expect frequent showers and lighting strikes. Florida has earned the reputation of "lighting capital of the world" where lighting strikes at least 100 days each year.

It will take time and research to locate the perfect beach house rental in Florida. The best beachfront properties are usually snapped up during the winter, so plan ahead and do your research a minimum of six months in advance.

One of the best resources for locating beach house rentals in Florida is Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO). Most beach house owners and property management services place advertisements in local newspapers and vacation trade magazines. To locate local newspapers type in "US Newspaper List" at your favorite search engine. Additionally, people frequently turn to "Craig's List" as a source for beach house rentals all across the U.S.

It goes without saying there is some risk involved when renting a beach house via the Internet. However, if you take time to contact references, ask numerous questions, and spend time conversing with the potential renter; chances are good you will have a pleasant and satisfying experience.

Last, but not least, be certain to have a back-up plan. Make reservations at a reputable hotel, motel, campground or appropriate facility that will allow you to cancel your reservation without penalty. You want to make certain that you have a place to stay in case your beach house rental turns out to be less than you expected.

Florida Beach House Rental Tips

Maxx — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 09:21:55 +0000

Officially known as the "Sunshine State," Florida boasts over 663 miles of beaches and 11,000 miles of rivers, streams and waterways. The sun shines more than 300 days per year and the weather is nearly perfect year round; although temperatures have been known to drop into the low 30s during winter months. Often referred to as "Paradise", it's easy to see why Florida is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States.

One of the best ways to explore Florida's beaches is to rent a beach house. With all the comforts of home, renting a beach house allows you the comfort of home living and eliminates the hassles and frustrations oftentimes associated with hotel accommodations. However, there are some things you need to know before you rent a beach house.

Tip #1: When planning your Florida vacation, take time to do your homework. Decide what area(s) you will visiting and become familiar with the different beaches. Not all beach house rentals are the same, so it is critical to know where desirable locations are. You want to choose a beach house rental that is safe and well maintained.

Tip #2: When looking for a beach house rental in Florida it's important to realize that the term "beach" means different things in different locations. For instance, beaches can be on bays rather than oceans. It's important to clarify exactly where the property is located when responding to ads that use terms such as "ocean view", "steps to the beach", or "beach accessibility". Scrutinize these terms and obtain clarity before acceptance of any rental agreement. Google Earth is a great resource to obtain satellite views of beach house rental locations.

Tip #3: Vacation with friends and share expenses. Many Florida beach house rentals accommodate up to 10 or more people. These larger homes oftentimes provide extra amenities such as swimming pools, Jacuzzis, spas, golf courses, and community clubhouses. Most beach house rentals are attractively furnished and include basic amenities such as cooking appliances and cookware, linens and towels, televisions, stereos, telephones, and Internet access.

Tip #4: Most Florida beach house rentals are offered by private individuals or property management organizations and can be rented daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or for an entire season. Most beach house rentals can be found by searching the Internet or through advertisements in local newspapers and travel magazines. To locate local newspapers type in "US Newspaper List" at your favorite search engine. Additionally, people frequently turn to "Craig's List" as a source for beach house rentals all across the U.S.

Tip #5: When renting a beach house from a private individual, plan on spending time conversing with the individual and ask a lot of questions. Obtain a list of references and contact them. Find out if pets or smoking are allowed. If you are a smoker, find out if indoor smoking is allowed, as some property owners will retain your security deposit if you smoke inside. If you are not a smoker, be certain to obtain a guarantee that the house is smoke-free. Many non-smokers have allergies to cigar and cigarette smoke and you don't want to rent a house that has allowed indoor smoking. The same holds true for pets. If you are allergic to animals, make certain that no animals have been allowed in the rental home.
Tip #6: Once you decide upon your beach house rental, obtain a written contract that clearly states the terms. Generally, a security deposit is required within 10 days from the date you make the reservation and final payment is due two weeks prior to arrival. Many beach house rental properties require a deposit equal to or greater than the weekly rental. Although this deposit is generally refundable, there are a few renters who do not refund it. Additionally, some renters charge a higher deposit and rental rate for individuals with pets, children and smokers.

Tip #7: Make certain your contract includes a written confirmation of your travel dates, the amount of the beach rental, time of arrival and check-out, cancellation fee, and exactly what is covered. For example, does the beach rental include a boat dock or marina or will that be a separate expense? Will you receive a refund if a hurricane or other natural disaster occurs before you plan to arrive? Are house cleaning expenses covered or do you need to clean the house prior to departure?

Tip #8: Be aware of local laws. Depending on where you plan to stay during your visit to Florida, it's a good idea to research the area and familiarize yourself with local laws. Some beaches allow pets, while others do not. Some beaches allow people to smoke, while others charge a hefty fine if you light up. Regardless of where you stay; if you plan to engage in fishing, you'll need a fishing license.

Tip #9: Be aware of environmental laws. Different locations throughout Florida are home to various species of protected wildlife. These include manatees, panthers, and multiple species of frogs, turtles, corals, crustaceans, and fish. There are also laws which apply to fishing. Certain fish are off-limits, while others must be a certain length or caught only during specific months. If you catch and keep these fish, you can be charged with fines of up to $500 or more.

Tip #10: Be aware of your environment. Florida is full of plants and wildlife that can literally kill you or cause you to become seriously ill. Saltwater catfish and jellyfish inject neurotoxins which can quickly send a person into anaphylactic shock. Sharks frequently visit shorelines and tend to congregate in reef areas and areas where surfers like to catch waves. Florida is home to numerous venomous snakes including rattlesnakes, copperhead, cottonmouth and coral snakes. Last but not least, Florida experiences outbreaks of aquatic toxins including Red Tide and Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). These aquatic toxins can be extremely harmful to individuals with respiratory problems.

Tip #11: Rent during the off-season. Many people enjoy renting a beach house when visiting Florida; particularly during the winter months. However, you can save a considerable amount of money if you wait until the off-season to rent. Florida's off-season falls between May and October, while the peak season falls between November and April.

Tip #12: Invest in travel insurance. Let's face it… things can go wrong when vacation time rolls around. Even the most carefully laid plans can be interrupted by unexpected illness, travel delay, emergency evacuation, or lost luggage. Trip insurance policies are designed for travelers going on a single trip. They can be used for cruises, tours, flights, house rentals, medical emergencies and more.

Precautions To Consider When Renting A Beach House In Florida

Maxx — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:42:55 +0000

Known as the "Sunshine State," Florida is one of the world's most popular tourist attractions. Renting a beach house is an excellent alternative to staying in a hotel or condo, as it provides you will the feeling of home and gives you more privacy.

However, Florida waters are home to sea life and aquatic plants that can make you seriously ill. Additionally, an abundance of creatures including snakes, alligators, and insects, lurk in marshes, retention ponds, under plants, and burrow in the sand.

Before you head out to discover Florida's beaches there are a few precautions which should be taken to ensure you have a safe and fun-filled vacation.

David McRee, author of "How to Be Safe from Sharks, Jellyfish, Stingrays and Rip Currents" offers a free copy of his book to visitors at his Beach Hunter website. This 72-page guide has been endorsed by the Chief of Safety for the Florida Air National Guard, saying that this book is the most complete and comprehensive information on beach safety he's ever seen. Considering it's free, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by downloading this informative and educational guide.

Volusia County is located in Northeast Central Florida. It is known as the "Shark Bite Capital of the World." However, to date there have been no fatal shark bites in the county and most occur near the Ponce de Leon Inlet. Juvenile Black Tip and Spinner sharks cause the majority of shark bites in Volusia County. These sharks prefer this area due to the abundance of bait fish. Additionally, this area provides the best waves for surfers and is oftentimes more congested than other area beaches.

According to the International Shark Attack File, more than 85 percent of shark bites in Florida occur during the months of March through October and happen between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. The United States Lifesaving Association estimates your chances of being bitten by a shark in Florida at one in one million.

To lessen your chances of being bitten by a shark, never enter the water if you are bleeding. Sharks are attracted to blood and you can become a target. This includes menstruation bleeding. Avoid swimming in murky waters, as sharks are unable to see that you are human and may mistake you for a fish. Last, but not least, swim with at least one other person and don't swim too far away from the shore.

It's important to realize that not all Florida beaches have lifeguards. Although many of the public beaches do have lifeguards on duty during daylight hours; beaches in front of hotels, resorts, and state parks are completely unguarded. Fort Myers does not have any lifeguards at all; nor does the entire county of Lee.

Rip currents frequently occur in Florida. This phenomenon is caused by a strong water current moving from shallow water to deeper water. If you are swept up in a rip current, it can carry you out for quite some distance. Do NOT attempt to swim against the current. Instead, do your best to remain calm and relax, while swimming parallel to the shore until you are out of the current.

If you have never been surfing, hire an instructor to teach you the proper techniques. Thousands of people are injured each year and hundreds drown because they underestimate the power of the waves. Most importantly, never surf alone.

Several Florida beaches allow watercraft to pull directly up to the shore; particularly jet skis. If you're swimming in an area where people and watercraft are in close proximity, it's crucial for you to be aware of your surroundings at all times. To avoid being hit by a boat or other watercraft, stay close to the shoreline and never venture out past the first sandbar. It's nearly impossible for a large vessel to see your head bopping up and down in the water, so avoid swimming too far away from the shore.

Stingray injuries are common during the summer months. Stingrays tend to rest in shallow waters — the same place where humans like to play. A stingray has a sharp barb on top of its tail. The barb contains a venomous poison, which it injects into anyone who gets too close. Stingrays do not intentionally set-out to cause harm to human. They only sting when a human gets too close and invades their territory.

If you are stung by a stingray, it's a good idea to seek medical attention. Stingray venom can cause a drastic decrease in blood pressure, dizziness, and possible anaphylactic shock. Stingrays are difficult to see because they have the ability to change color and blend in with the environment. When walking in water where stingrays may be resting, it's recommended to wear shoes and shuffle your feet as you walk.

Jellyfish are very common in Florida and there are several different species. All jellyfish have tentacles that hang down from its body. These tentacles have stinging cells that are filled with venom and microscopic harpoons. When the tentacles touch something, they inject their neurotoxin venom into their victim. Some jellyfish have very weak venom that when injected feels similar to a bee sting. Other jellyfish have deadly venom, which can result in death.

The most dangerous jellyfish in Florida is the Portuguese Man of War. It appears as a clear bubble floating on top of the water, and has a deep purple body and tentacles that can reach up to 200 feet in length. If you see one Man of War, chances are good there are others in the area. It's strongly advised to get out of the water as quickly as possible and warn everyone around you. A Man of War sting can be fatal to anyone, but particularly young children and the elderly.

Sea Lice is a common occurrence on the lower east coast of Florida during the months of March through August. Sea lice are not lice at all, but the larvae of the Thimble Jellyfish. The larvae get caught between bathing suits and skin, causing an uncomfortable stinging sensation and possible rash. The rash can last for several weeks and has been known to cause nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in children.

If you encounter Sea Lice, remove the swimming suit and shower as quickly as possible. The swimsuit should then be washed in hot water in a washing machine and dried in a dryer. Washing by hand or hanging dry is not sufficient to eliminate the larvae.

There is an abundance of alligators in Florida. If there is a body of fresh water, chances are good an alligator can be found lurking around. Avoid swimming in fresh water lakes and rivers while visiting Florida. The chances of encountering an alligator in fresh water locations are high, so stick to swimming near the shoreline of the ocean.

Mosquitoes and sand flies are the most prevalent and troublesome insects on the Florida beaches. A sand fly looks like a tiny gnat and many of Florida's mosquitoes are carriers of the West Nile Virus. If you intend to go fishing or visit any of Florida's national parks, it's strongly advised to wear an effective insect repellant.

Other creatures to look out for at the beach include crabs and spiny fish. Stone crabs live under rocks in the water and have powerful claws. Horseshoe crabs have a spike on their tail and are found in the shallow waters of the bays. Keep your eyes open for dead fish on the beach. Many of them have spines that can cause intense pain if you step on them. It's best to wear shoes when walking on the beach, particularly during the evening hours.

Although there are many dangers on the beaches of Florida, as long as you are aware of them you can decrease you chances of being hurt. If you'd like to know more about the dangers of Florida beaches, download the free ebook mentioned above or type in "Dangers of Florida Beaches" at your favorite search engine. As they say awareness is empowerment and if you plan on strolling or swimming Florida beaches, it's a really good idea to be aware!