Day trip to the Gulf

[solanasunshine]

We want to go on a day trip to somewhere on the Gulf Coast when we are next over in Orlando but are not sure which part to go to[:I]. If anyone has any suggestions we would be very grateful.
Thanks [msnsmile]

[penelope]

Clearwater is beautiful, lots to do and see, or just relax

[andrewmckay5]

To give you some idea of distances its 2 and 1/2 hours drive to Venice/Rotonda from Kissemmee. Another 45 minutes or so south to Fort Myers. Naples is still further South.
All a bit far for the day.

andrew

[shockey]

If you want somewhere quiet, try Honeymoon Island, just north of Clearwater. There's a short walking trail there where you can see ospreys. You can also take a boat trip over to Caladesi Island, which has a great beach, lots of seashells.

[taffy]

How long would it take to get from Terra Verde to Clearwater.

Taffy

[Genie]

St. Petersburg is my favourite.

[Val]

Naples is my favourite, but unfortunately you would need an overnight stay to visit, but well worth it especially if you see the sunset from Naples pier and the dolphins visit.

Val

[Parrothead]

We went over to the Gulf for a day last month. We drove to Clearwater, to relive some happy times from years ago, then drove south. Sadly, the 'Condo Commandos' have taken over this part of the coast. A wall of high rise condos block the route to the beach. The public accesess are few and far between. On the land side there are some gorgeous homes. Driving south you will see some fab bars and restaurants. We always go to 'The Pub', a really good seafood restaurant, on the inland waterway. The grouper is to die for[msntongue]
Continue south until you come to Johns Pass. A quaint shopping, eating, and drinking area. We rented jetskis here last year. There is a great bar/restaurant called Scully's. Live music and viewss of the water. It is named after the bar of the same name in the John Candy film 'Summer Rental'.
We continued down to Treasure Island and rented a boat for an hour and pootled arround the inland waterway looking at all pink palaces.
Ended our day with a drink at Caddy's on the beach to watch a perfect sunset.
This is not a day for young children, ours are over 20, and this was their idea. We all had a great time, and will do it again next time.

Another place to look at is Gulf Port, at the very end of St Petes peninsula. A bit like Key West, without the crazyness

When you go make sure to pick up the Free orange map and info booklet. It is full of good ideas.

Most important, have a great time and let us all know where you go.

[solanasunshine]

Thanks for all the suggestions xx
Gill

[abbeyvillas]

We love Sarasota - beautiful long beach and some fabulous houses. Also some lovely shops and restaurants. Its not as far as Naples but a little further than St Pete's but definitely worth the visit.