I would use PFS rather than play sand, however this is not from experience, just what AA has taught me. I went with PFS through the rec. of people here, and it is awesome. I love the white look. Anyway most people say that play sand will be very cloudy.
I switched to PFS and it was not cloudy at all after some rinses. Second, I live in the Northeast and the local Home Depot's etc. dont have it either.
I went to a small pool supply store. They only had 50lb. bags and it was about $12. Would obviously last you a long time. The brand I got was US Silica.