Thanks to some great information from fellow Fodorites we presently have reservations in Treasure Island, FL during December, but now I'm wondering about Madeira Beach instead. (Yes, I know - wishy washy.) Anyway, what kind of help can anybody give me about accommodations in Madeira Beach? We definitely want balconies on the ocean.
Thanks in advance for your help.

ccolor
We've stayed in Treasure Island at Island Inn: http://www.islandinnresort.com/
It is only about 5mim by car to Maderia Beach which we always go to because we enjoy John's Pass: http://www.islandinnresort.com/ But I've never seen accomodations there that I would be interest in, however, I've never really looked either.

Some places in Treasure Island, although they are beachfront, are a long way from the water because the beach is so very wide at points. I always want to hear the waves crash to the shore so we want to be near to the water's edge. If this is important to you, I would ask how far from the water's edge you are. At some places it feels like you're on a day hike to get there. At the Island Inn we always sat on our balcony watching and listening to the waves and as I said, for us that is important.

Hey cd, how are you doing?

Your recommendation of Island Inn is why we presently have reservations there, and now that I've read your answer to my question I believe we will stop looking and enjoy what we have. I wanted to be closer to the goodies at St. Johns Pass, but I agree that the sound of water with a nice balcony (and bottle of wine *grin*) is much more important. You've been a great help and I appreciate it!

Now since I have your attention (again with the grin), we like to eat at laid-back places, nothing fancy. Do you have any ideas about that?

Thanks, hon!

ccolor
I think you will enjoy the Island Inn. A bottle of wine, on the balcony at dusk watching the sunset is awesome!

We are not foodies, we love to go to places where we wear shorts and has views, or just has a laid back atmosphere.

One of those places is Caddy's right next door to you. Walk a few minutes up the beach and you're there. Really good grouper sandwiches. They have beach chairs you can actually sit in the water
if you want.

Another DIVE that we enjoy is: http://cajuncafeonthebayou.olm.net/
We go there for crawdads and it's just a fun place.

Also Billy's for stone crab and drinks :http://www.billysstonecrab.com/menu1.html
Ask about their free little boat ride. Kinda a funky little thing to do.

We did most of our own cooking. If you have a car, do shop at our own Fodorite's market and restaurant about a 15 min drive away. Joan is a regular poster here and they sell fresh seafood to take home to cook or you can eat at their restaurant. If you go, buy some of her husband Don's homemade spread and serve with crackers and wine on that balcony! Delicious! http://www.thegabber.com/mid-peninsula/

Have fun! When are you going?

cd:
Whoo hooo - Now I'm ready to go!

Our trip isn't until 12/10, but I like preparing ahead. Your suggestions are just what I was looking for - we're not into really nice places to eat either, so once again I will follow your lead. Thanks for the heads-up about Joan and Don's place. It's now on the list of things-to-do.

You're a peach!!