Florida residents and visitors seeking affordable lodging and a variety of outdoor adventures and activities can now enjoy urban oasis getaways at the Everglades International Hostel, in Florida City. More than just a family-friendly hostel, the facility is a day-tripper’s dream, close to all of Southeast Florida’s attractions, including Everglades and Biscayne national parks, Miami’s South Beach and the Florida Keys.

Guest accommodations range from deluxe private suites to spacious dorm rooms; some visitors even camp within the hostel’s acre of reclaimed tropical gardens, filled with edible fruits, fresh herbs and free-range chickens. Nearby farmers’ markets and the hostel’s own kitchen allow guests to eat healthy and save on dining out.

The hostel provides appealing activities for all ages: swimming or taking a yoga class at the freshwater, tropical waterfall; lounging in a rope treehouse; snacking on tropical fruits and sampling tropical wines. Canoe and bike rentals are available, and guided tours explore the Everglades from November through March.

Recommended in 2012 by Lonely Planet, the hostel is a favored venue for friends and families, but also offers solitude for the soul and a romantic ambience for couples. “Everything about the hostel and area have made our vacation the best ever,” advise recent guests Nadja and Rasmus, adding, “We came for one night and stayed a week!”

Location: 20 S.W. 2nd Ave., Florida City. For more information or to make reservations, call 305-248-1122, email [email protected] or visit EvergladesHostel.com.