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What's it really like? Location: 106 miles from Orlando A sprawling beach resort, extremely popular with families due to its proximity to Orlando. Set along a two mile 'strip' of hotels, bars and restaurants, Clearwater is considered a good antidote to the hustle of the theme parks, and yet there's more going on here than in most European resorts. It's clean, modern and good value for money. Beaches: Long, wide and sandy - the beach here is ranked among America's top 15. The sea tends to be calm and shallow, ideal for children. Lifeguards patrol the main sections and there are Watersports and sun beds available. Days out: Day trips to Orlando are possible though not recommended for young children who tire easily. Busch Gardens - a premium theme park based on Africa and Egypt. Florida Aquarium - fascinating sea life great for kids. Water park near Tampa Bay with speed slides and sunbathing areas. Cruises go from the marina along the coast or deep sea fishing. Nights out: Unsophisticated bars offer some 'live' music or a place to unwind. Eating out is typical America-style with a wide mix but mainly dominated by fast food outlets and those serving gut-busting, all-you-can-eat buffets. Children: Children will love the beach which rarely gets overcrowded. There's also a fun park and a huge aquarium.
What's it really like? Location: 106 miles from Orlando St Pete's is a long, narrow resort which has sprung up along the main 'strip' - hugging the coast and lined with hotels, apartments and shops. There's a relaxed mood to the town ideal for families or more mature visitors Being so well spread makes car hire almost essential or make sure you budget for taxis. Buses run along the main coastal road. Beaches: Another long stretch of fine, white sand which rarely gets overcrowded. A wide choice of Watersports. Days out: Coach trips to Orlando are possible though not recommended for young children who tire easily. Busch Gardens - a premium theme park based on Africa and Egypt. Florida Aquarium - fascinating sea life great for kids. Water park near Tampa Bay with speed slides and sunbathing areas. Cruises along the coast or deep sea fishing. Nights out: Bars offer some 'live' music or a place to unwind. There's plenty of American-style restaurants. Children: Plenty to amuse the kids. (see Days Out)
What's it really like? Location: 134 miles from Orlando An up market coastal city from which the resorts of Longboat Key, Siesta Key and Lido Beach have sprung. Longboat and Siesta are small islands comprising of hotels and some residential housing estates. Sarasota has a modern and attractive downtown area boasting more shops, bars and restaurants than you'll ever need. Much of it is pedestrianised. Beaches: See photo above. The beaches along this stretch of coast and on the nearby islands lay claim to some of the finest, whitest, softest sand you'll ever see. The main beach is flanked by hotels and a busy main road. Days out: Day trips to Orlando are possible although it can be a tiring journey. The Everglades are within reach and well worth a trip. Busch Gardens - a premium theme park based on Africa and Egypt. Florida Aquarium - fascinating sea life great for kids. Water park near Tampa Bay with speed slides and sunbathing areas. Nights out: Downtown Sarasota is rammed with bars, night clubs and restaurants. Eating out is typical America-style with a wide mix but mainly dominated by fast food outlets and those serving gut-busting, all-you-can-eat buffets. Evening 'dinner cruises' from the bay. Children: Children will love the beach which rarely gets overcrowded. There's a local fun park and plenty of choice for young ones a short drive away (see 'Days Out'). |
