Most threads seem to focus on the stretch from Clearwater down to Fort Myers. But are there good beaches slightly further north - e.g. my map includes Hernando Beach (just north of Aripeka). Is this worth considering for a day trip? Are there others in the area?

Or is the travel time too great? We're staying just off the the 192 West (between the 4 and the 27), so it looks like the 27 and then the 50 take us almost straight there - I would guess 75-80 minutes, but don't know the roads so could be way out!

Advice appreciated re suitable day trip to a gulf coast beach (preferably quiet, but with some toilet and eating facilities), bearing in mind presence of a 5 year-old puts a premium on shortest practical journey time [msnsmile]