When finals are finally over and the student population starts to head home and visit their families, the student town of Gainesville may start to get a little quiet. If you are still looking to take a trip away from town with spending little to no money, try heading out to one of Florida's beaches near the collegiate area. Just near Gainesville you have Cocoa Beach, Daytona, Jacksonville, Neptune, Flagler Beach and Saint Augustine! Cocoa Beach is nearly three miles from your Gainesville apartment. However, this beach is surfer friendly and will accommodate to your relaxation wants while also providing you a bars and restaurants to allow you to do some late night partying. Cocoa Beach also allows you the option to camp out of its beaches, which could save you a few bucks when trying to cut corners with hotel stays. Neptune Beach is just East of Jacksonville and is much closer to the Gainesville area. Being so close to a major city can bring a lot of options to heart when looking for entertainment near a beach area. Hit up the beach for a few days and stop at a Jaguars game on your way home!