We are a couple in need of a nice beach, in a quiet non-party location. We are curious about the Destin area? Anna Maria Island area? Sanibel or Captiva Island? Or any other suggestions?

Siesta Key/Sarasota

http://www.siestakeychamber.com/home

What are your requirements other than a 'quiet, non-party location'?. That includes almost the whole West coast and the many island locations adjacent.

Thanks. Have been to Lido Key several years and found that beautiful. Requirements? Desires would include walking and relaxing on a non-crowded beach, maybe a short boat excursion, sightseeing by car or foot, dinner and ?? Don't need "nightlife" so to speak, and just a general laid-back peaceful surroundings.

Maybe best way to describe what we are looking for: Just don't want to end up in a "spring-break" type area.

My choice is Sanibel Island. My brother's choice is Gasparilla Island. I haven't been there and he hasn't been to Sanibel. Why Sanibel? I like to stroll the beaches from the Lighthouse area, and the Bowman's beach. I like the Ding Darling wildlife center for an afternoon. I would go to Ft. Myers for the Edison Museum and maybe for dinner a couple of nights. I find Sanibel the least crowded of the beaches with a lot more of a 'deserted island' vibe. But many of the beaches along the southern gulf coast would fit the 'not too crowded' critiera. But I suggest you look into the Boca Grande, Little Gasparilla areas also. When I say Sanibel, I mean Captiva also. I have not personally gone to Anna Maria (make myself a note to go) but I think it might be less crowded. Have been to Lido and like it a lot.
Treasure Island has quiet beaches and plenty of close by things to do - boat trips, parks with alligators, plenty of restaurants and bars. It really depends on 'how quiet' you want to be.

Casa Ybel-Sanibel
South Seas Resort-Captiva

Thank you wintersp and 330east. Your comments have really helped to narrow it down. It looks like we have a more specific area to investigate. Thanks again

My choice is Sanibel Island. My brother's choice is Gasparilla Island. I haven't been there and he hasn't been to Sanibel. Why Sanibel? I like to stroll the beaches from the Lighthouse area, and the Bowman's beach. I like the Ding Darling wildlife center for an afternoon. I would go to Ft. Myers for the Edison Museum and maybe for dinner a couple of nights. I find Sanibel the least crowded of the beaches with a lot more of a 'deserted island' vibe. But most of the beaches along would fit that critiera. But I suggest you look into the Boca Raton area also.

My choice would also be Sanibel. Now I'm no expert but depending on the time of year you go, both Casa Ybel and South Seas resort might be overrun with families. Of course this won't be an issue if you go during the week once school begins.
We happen to prefer smaller hotels. Our favorite is the Sanibel Inn. Not nearly as many amenities as the two others mentioned, but perfect for us. You could also check out song of the seas? Part of the same group, but adults only.
We visit Sanibel yearly and love it's laid back atmosphere.
Having also been to Anna Maria, I can also testify to its 'non spring break' low key atmosphere.
I don't think you could go wrong with either of them, but I would give the edge to Sanibel Island.
Enjoy researching.....it's part of the fun!

I personally prefer Anna Maria Island to Sanibel or Captiva. The trolley makes it easy to get around, and, it seems more walkable in general.

However, we've also had very pleasant stays on both Sanibel and Captiva.

When are you going? The Destin area is not really a winter destination and you'll need to go considerably further south to get a "beach" feeling during the winter.

Readytogo: Read my trip report and see if Cape San Blas fits what you are looking for: http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...as-florida.cfm

Sanibel Arms

Destin is still fairly crowded now during the week. It is high season til Labor Day weekend is past. Weekends are extremely crowded/congested. After Labor Day, it will be considerably less crowded.