**For some reason my message didn't post - so I'll try it in the reply section....
I would like to get out of cold and dreary Michigan for a getaway in April. My boyfriend and I are thinking Florida - but I'm wondering where in Florida it will be warm enough to sit on the beach. The Keys?? Gulf Coast? Any suggestions would be very much appreciated! Thanks!

It'll be in the 80's today in Tampa Bay..that should be warm enough, and by April it's in the 80's about daily here. We swam for the first time around April 10 last year and we don't go in until the water temp is well over 70. With the possible exception of the Panhandle, you should be fine practically anywhere in the state. The best beaches are on the west coast and the Keys have hardly any. Best bets are Clearwater/St Pete area, Sarasota/Longboat Key area, or Sanibel and vicinity. Beware of Spring Breakers...make your reservations early!

Hi "cmcdaniel,"

With your knowledge of Fla. beaches and having read you on Hawaii threads, I believe, are there Fla. beaches equivalent to the Sans Souci section of Waikiki Beach, and the Kapalua Bay Beach right in front of Kapalua Bay Hotel? We like very calm water, gently sloping shoreline - something that not-so-good swimmers don't have to be afraid of. Or am I dreaming, and just need to keep going to Hawaii?

Thanks a bunch!

Hi Tara...it must have been another McDaniel writing on Hawaii--I haven't posted anything on that topic.

All the beaches I suggested to the original poster would apply to you as well. The Gulf is calmer than the Atlantic and those 3 beaches I mentioned earlier all have nice gentle slopes and in the right tide you can walk out for ages. We were in Maui at Kaanapali (sp?) and I had a healthy respect for those waves (and I used to be a lifeguard and swimming instructor!)
The Gulf is nice and gentle, no big waves to bowl you over.
Carol

You don't mention what part of Florida. The water temps in SE Florida will be just fine. Plenty warm for all swimmers.