Madeira Beach or Treasure Island
 

My husband and I traveling to Florida first week in May. We normally stay at Ft Myers Beach. However, this year we decided to try a different location. Have been checking out Madeira Beach or Treasure Island. We visited Treasure Island about 20 years ago. Don't remember a lot except we did not like the motel we stayed at. It was very run down and dirty. Almost ruined our vacation. However, we did love Johns Pass. Thats why we are think about Madeira Beach. Need input on the Holiday Inn or the Shoreline at Madeira Beach. Wants a room directly on the beach with great view. Don't really need a condo beacuse we prefer to eat most of our meals out. Will this location meet our spectations? We are in our early 50"s. Previiously we stayed at the Pink Sell at Ft Myers. A great spot, and location, but just wanted a little different scenery this year. Help! Need input on the area. Thanks

I happen to live on Treasure Island, so I suppose I'm biased, but I truly prefer TI to Madeira Beach. Mad Beach is wall-to-wall condominiums lining the beach. TI has a "hotel strip" with beachfront sidewalk, shops and restaurants, but it's a bit prettier and more residential. Check out the Bilmar (right in the center of the strip) and the Island Inn, a little further south, but clean and well-run.

P.S. The Bilmar has an older wing with beachfront rooms with only windows, but their newer wing has balconies overlooking the Sloppy Joe's beach bar, beach and pool. I'd want to be in that section.

I'm sure Joan would agree with me that you're a few years too late for Madiera. It used to be a great beach but now it's wall to wall condos. VERY TALL condos. It's sort of like being at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, only you're at the beach!

I'd also suggest TI and think Joan's right on with her recs.

Thanks for the input. I checked out the two options and decided on Bilmar. Already booked room with balcony & view in the 8 story tower.