what beach is best?

[NinaUK]

we have been to orlando a few times now and want to go abit further afield, we have flown in to tampa so the driving is not a problem for us. We are going again in April/May 05 and want to do a few things different and as we have not been to any of the beaches who can recommend a beach that is within a few hours driving distance.

Just wanted to know peoples thoughts on Floridas beaches that they have visited (by way of a day trip from Orlando)

[emelye1999]

Siesta Key in Sarasota is definately the best, the sand is quartz, so it never gets hot, it is pure white and feels as though you are walking on flour, the sea is lovely and clear. I got married on it so I am a bit biased, but I have been all over Florida and I still think this rates the number 1.

[Mike]

Originally posted by emelye1999
Siesta Key in Sarasota is definately the best, the sand is quartz, so it never gets hot, it is pure white and feels as though you are walking on flour, the sea is lovely and clear.

..just beat me to it!:D Takes 2hrs 15 minutes from WDW (see my June Trip Report, beloww, or Xmas one for more detail)

Superb beaches, lovely island.

Mike:cool:

http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/513/215501skbeach-med.jpg

http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/513/2155sphinx-med.jpg

http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/513/2155turtle1.jpg

http://www.thedibb.co.uk/photopost/data/513/2155suns_1.jpg

[liz]

THE BEST BEACH WE VISITED LAST YEAR WAS HONEYMOON ISLAND (..JUST NORTH OF CLEARWATER.)YOU THEN TAKE A BOAT TRIP TO CALADESI ISLAND FOR THE DAY. A REAL ADVENTURE.PURE DELIGHT.

[jheaton]

hi- agree with earlier votes for Siesta Key- it's gorgeous. you could also try Anna Maria Island which is just off Bradenton, it's seven miles long and all beach on the Gulf side, the sand is the same as Siesta Key.We went from Southern Dunes in just over 2 hours- try these sites for info

annamariaislandchamber.org

simplysiestakey.com

siestakeychamber.com

[FLGirl-UKNow]

Rule of thumb...

West Coast = sunsets, white powder beaches, no autos on the beach, not a lot of commercialism

East Coast = sunrises, white(ish) powder beaches, autos on the beach, some with boardwalks, lots of commercialism


Growing up in Orlando I would say that the West Coast gives off a classier vibe than the East Coast does. BUT I always went to the East Coast as we were into surfing and all that came with it. It was always a treat to drive over to the West Coast. If did give a somewhat desserted feeling at times though.

Personal preference applies and depends on what you are looking for.

Tradewinds at St. Petersburg is a nice resort. A bit pricey for what they offer but have been several times and have always enjoyed it. Of course if I was going to make my pick for that area I would stay at the Don Ceasar's. Closest thing to the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.

[sarah82]

Have to say Maderia Beach, opposite St Johns Pass....which has a lovely fish restaurant!!!

now i'm daydreaming about there instead of doing work!!!

[NinaUK]

thanks for all your ideas, starting to look at the calendar now and getting excited.

[Chesterbhoy]

We could not recommend Marco Island enough. Beach was lovely and not very busy.

[NinaUK]

ok we have decided to visit Siesta Key, what we need now some is good directions.

We have never been to Seista key and although driving is not a problem for us some good directions would be gratefully received. We have driven to busch gardens so directions from I4 would be excellent.

Thanks in advance to anyone that can help.

[Mike]

Hi Nina. Just got back!:D

I4 west to the I75 south (follow Miami, Naples). Siesta Key is just past the first couple of Sarasota turn-offs, around 45 miles south from the I4/I75 junction. It has two access points that 'line-up' with two junctions of the I75. the first you come to is junction 207. After exiting take the Bee Ridge Road west for 5 miles. At the junction with Highway 41, go straight across at the lights, following the road round to the right. Turn left at the next lights onto Siesta drive, and follow the local signs across the drawbridge onto the Island. The village and the biggest beaches are at this top-middle part.

The 2nd suitable exit from I75 is junction 205. Again head west on exit (right) onto Clarke Road, and follow this for 5 miles or so, though several sets of lights, finally crossing the H41 and becoming Stickney point Road. It goes straight onto the south part of the island, over another drawbridge. Once over the bridge, turn right for the village and main beaches, or left for the smaller, rougher, but delightful Turtle beach at the southerly tip.

If heading for the main beaches go early for parking at the Public (Crescent) Beach. Or park in the Village (not near the Market, they'll tow you! Free car park 50 yards away! Just ask a native) and walk onto the norherly (preferred by us) beaches.

Hope this helps!

Mike

[NinaUK]

thanks mike, saw your pictures and it looks lovely. will print your reply out so we can find this lovely looking beach.#

thanks

[joelsa]

I'd have to say Siesta Key, it's absolutely beautiful.
Jo xx

[ssmb]

Naples beach is georgeous. Wouldnt chance St Petes Beach - isnt great but The Pink Palace is lovely if you did want to head that way. It caters for everything.