Gulf Coast holiday

[chris jones]

Hi all
I wonder if any of you can help? We are thinking of going to the Gulf Coast area next May.

We have really enjoyed the last few times that we have visited the Orlando area. However we feel like a change this time.

One of the things we enjoy most in Orlando is the shopping (especially the outlets!!)Are there any on this side of the state?

Where would be a good area to stay that doesnt involve huge driving distances.

Thanks for any help.

[Robert5988]

There are shopping malls all over Florida - indeed the USA.

You can fly to Tampa or Fort Myers(indirect) on the Gulf Coast. Even Orlando amd Miami do not involve large distances to travel to reach the Gulf coast.

[SDJ]

You could fly into Tampa and stay in Clearwater Beach, Sarasota or Naples. All with great shopping facilities and lovely beaches. Enjoy your planning.

Sandra

[Mo Green]

If you stay in the Rotonda Area you can stay in a mainly residential area and 'live the dream'. Only 15 minutes to the beach and 20 minutes to Port Charlotte Mall. It is possible to shop in the morning and spend the afternoon on the beach watching dolphins at sunset without having to travel long distances.

[Pookie]

I agree anywhere on the Gulf side is not far from
shopping or attractions.
The Rotonda area is old world Florida but is still close to great shopping & by some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida.
There are 2 outlets both about 1 hour away & Port Charlotte Mall is
15 minutes.
Have fun deciding where to go & I do not think you will be disappointed.

Lynne

[mollymolly]

Mo is right, the Rotonda Area is an ideal location and ticks the right boxes for you. Also if you enjoy outlet shopping then you have a Prime Outlet at Ellenton (north) and a Prime Outlet at Naples (south).

Bernadette

[derek birchenough]

I agree with all the comments about the gulf coast, its such a contrast to Orlando you can relax on some superb beaches, and still get plenty of retail therapy. May is a great time to go and "Wall to Wall sunshine" is often the weather forecast.

You will have plenty of choice of some great villas[msnsmile2]

[becbecs]

Longboat Key at Sarasota is a fantastic place for a relaxing vacation, Shopping not sure about as we mainly relaxed.

St Armands Circle was really good though.

Worth a little research

[andrewmckay5]

Chris,
just be very aware that there a number of arreas on the Gulf Coast that are not zoned for short term rentals. Friends have a villa in sarasota where the minimum rental perion has to be 1 month.
However Rotonda is legally zoned for short term rentals and with a complete bias I can highly recommend the areaA number of Orlando owners have stayed there when wanting a change from Orlando and i know have loved the area.
andrew

[marion]

Hi Chris,

As Rotonda is legally zoned for short term rentals I am pleased to say visitors are very much welcomed by the resedence.

Rotonda is within easy reach of exsalant shoping and Florida's famous often deserted white sandy beaches with crystal clear, warm, turquoise waters. The beach enjoyment is truly endless.

You can dine in a different restaurant every night.