I work two jobs, but it still doesn’t seem like I ever have enough money. Especially when you’re spending a summer in South Florida, the sun — and your wallet — are always out. So to help you save some  cash but still get out of the house, here’s a list of fun things to do in and around campus on the cheap.

Rec Center

PRICE – varies

LOCATION – North side of Boca campus, at the end of the breezeway

With FAU being just a stone’s throw from some of the South’s best beaches, it’s natural to want to get out on the water. In fact, instead of forking over handfuls of cash to local retailers, FAU’s Rec Center offers snorkeling and diving equipment, as well as paddleboards for rent to students for the day, weekend, or week.

Stand Up Paddleboard Rental Comparisons:

FAU Rec Center (students) – $25/day, $40/weekend, $75/week

Surf World – 435 S. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach – $20/hour, $50/day

Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

PRICE – suggested donation of $5

LOCATION – 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432 (11 min. driving from Boca Campus)

The beach can get a little overcrowded during these summer months, so for a change of pace from the hustle and bustle take a day trip down to one of Boca Raton’s premier nature centers. The Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is home to exhibits, aquariums, nature trails, and a 40 foot observation tower that will provide you with a rare look into South Florida’s vast wildlife. Admission is a suggested donation of $5.00.

Mizner Park Summer Tribute Music Series Fridays at 7:30 p.m.)

PRICE – FREE

LOCATION – 327 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432 (7 min. driving from Boca Campus)

Nothing says summer like live music. Ticket prices, even before those annoying handling fees, can be steep. Even more so, if you’re trying to see a big band like U2 or Billy Joel, good luck getting a nice view. Throughout the summer, Mizner Park is combatting the high prices and big names with some great local tribute bands at no cost to you. Take a trip through the decades with tribute bands all summer long each Friday at 7:30. Local groups will be performing your favorites from legends such as U2, the Grateful Dead, Jimmy Buffett, and more.

7/11 – Journey

7/25 – U2

8/1 – Jimmy Buffett

8/8 – Billy Joel

FAU Ropes Course – Open Climb (Wednesdays 5-7:00 p.m.)

PRICE – FREE

LOCATION – Boca Campus, North of arena and track, next to softball complex

A hidden gem of FAU’s Boca Raton campus is the Challenge Course that boasts over 30 low and high elements, including a rock wall, for the outdoor adventurer on a budget. The course can be enjoyed by appointment throughout the week but is open to any FAU student with their Owl Card from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. every Wednesday.

FAU Living Room Theater

PRICE – $6.50 for students or $9 for 9:00 showing/food combo

LOCATION – South East side of Boca Campus, in the Culture and Society Building

Students can enjoy FAU’s movie theater year round for only $6.50 with a valid ID. Or cough up an extra two and a half bucks because at 9:00 p.m. for $9, visitors can enjoy one slice of pizza, one drink, and a movie ticket. The deal is valid Sunday through Thursday at the theaters location on the Boca Raton Campus.

 Funky Buddha

PRICE – $10 hookahs every Tuesday night

LOCATION – 1201 NE 38th Street Oakland Park, FL 33334 (26 min. from campus)

If you enjoy going out for a few craft beers and hookah but don’t enjoy the cost that usually comes along with it, then Funky Buddha Lounge & Brewery is your new destination on Tuesday nights! The local brewery is home to some very reasonable priced craft beers on tap as well as $10 hookahs every Tuesday night all year long. Just around the corner from the Boca Raton campus on North Federal Highway you can find one of the best deals in town.