We are looking to plan a bachelorette party for a friend of mine – we will be about 15 girls (late 20’s/early 30’s) coming down from NYC for a long weekend in May. We are basically looking for someplace where we can sit out during the day and do some bar hopping at night. However, we are a very laid back bunch – we like to dance, but not really into the club scene – maybe loungey places or bars with live music and cover bands. Key West would have been ideal, but it is too difficult to get to for a long weekend. Where else in Florida would you recommend? The South Beach scene might be a bit ‘clubby’ for us…not really sure what else might be a good option…

The Destin/Fort Walton area on the Gulf Coast is really nice. The beaches and water are beautiful and there is plenty of nightlife- Tiki Bars on the waterfront, etc. The weather will be nice that time of year- not too hot yet.

What about Siesta Key? They have some nice nightlife with St. Armands, Sarasota close by. The beaches are stunning.

South Beach would be an expensive option. But the beach and cafes are great. You don't like the club scene, but dancing on SoBe at night is the best.

Fort Lauderdale's Las Olas has a great cafe atmosphere with a more adult crowd, but less dance options. Good beach. Careful which hotel, some are old.

Fly Jet Blue to West Palm Beach (maybe a group rate?) and stay on Singer Island.
Sheraton will have a new resort open there in March...maybe some good packages will be available there, or at their rivals.

South Beach would be a great option for you because you can definitely still have a fantastic time and take in the scene without hitting the nightclubs. The true nightclubs don't get cranked up until after 1AM anyway.

Good lounge type places: The Delano and The Skybar at The Shore Club.

Siesta Key / Lido Key / St. Armands fits the bill of what you are looking for.

I'll also suggest Siesta Key. It's the nicest Florida beach that I've been on. It's mostly condos, which would be nice for a large group. You could rent a couple of them and have room to spread out, rather than being crammed into a hotel room. Some places (The Palm Bay Club) will rent for less than a week during May, and the rates are much better than winter and earlier spring.

I would still say South Beach. There is alot of activity there whether or not you chose to do it. On another note, I just spent a weekend in Delray Beach and could not believe the amount of restaurants, bars, pubs along Atlantic Avenue. I would say it was a bit more "mature" than South Beach. We stayed @ the Marriott right there across from the beach. It was a great weekend and they had an awesome spa too!

I also agree with South Beach. You rally can't beat the beach there and there are som nay great restaurants, shopping and bars/clubs. If the hotels are too $$, you could stat in Ft. Lauderdale and go into South Beach a few times.