We have 3 kids & have been going to the Gulf Coast (Sarasota / Bradenton) for 5 years now....... we love it! We have done the theme parks (day excursions from the Gulf Coast) .... in fact the kids don't even ask about them now and so its the Gulf Coast with its fantastic beaches (Siesta Beach , Sarasota and Anna Maria Island are our favourites).

Having said that, it is only 1hr 30 mins to Orlando from Bradenton and so excursions are easy if that is what you want to do. Some people do an overnight in a motel and do 2 parks in 2 days.

Loads to do on the sports front ... golf courses are just unbeatable value with some great homes for rent.

Neil