Naples or Longboat Key
 

Which place would be better to take teens for spring break ages 14 & 17. Have already been to Captiva. Between Naples and Longboat Key which would be more fun and where should we to stay?

I believe there's more to do and see in Naples, plus it is easy to take a day and head for the Everglades.

BAK

Even with teens? Some have told me it's more like a retirement village and the kids might be bored.

I'd hardly call Naples more of a retirement village than Sarasota. And Longboat Key is simply a long strip of condos with NOTHING to do but beach. To be honest, teens would probably like Ft. Myers Beach the most, "tacky as it is".

Anyone who thinks Naples is strictly a retirement village hasn't been there in a long time. But these days it is more for "yuppies" and "trendoids" than for teens. But BAK is right. If they are into nature, there is a lot to do in Naples.

Another alternative is Siesta Key, also in the Sarasota area and a short drive from Longboat Key. We were there last sping break and found that there were many, many families there with teens. The place was crawling with teenagers. The beach is beautiful and there are many condo complexes to choose from. It's more relaxed than Longboat, without being tacky.

KathyK is right on the money for Siesta Key being the place teens would love the best for spring break. The place is crawling with families at that time, and that's what teens love the best. They want to hang out with their own age group. Sanibel is another great choice for families. I'd nix Naples, although I love it very much. Not enough there to interest teens (I have a 15 yr. old and a 16 yr. old, so I speak from first hand experience). It's more a place for the 20 something and up crowd.

I never think about Siesta Key, but I'd agree. In the Sarasota area it would be the ideal for the kids.

So then between Siesta Key and Naples are you saying that Siesta Key would be best? Any recommendations on where to stay at either location?

I've never been to Naples so I can't comment on it, but as I previously posted I think Siesta Key is a good destination for teens. We stayed at the Sarasota Surf and Racquet CLub. I believe the website is SarasotaSurf.com. During Easter break you can expect to spend $1500-$1700 for a 2 bedroom condo. It's a nice property with 2 pools, tennis courts and right on a beautiful beach. There are cheaper properties on Siesta Key, I just don't know much about them. Good luck.

www.siestaketchamber.com

I live here, so I speak from experience. We do get spring break crowds, although nothing like some of our east coast neighbors, or even Clearwater/St.Pete area. A nice mix of college kids and families with teens. Many beach activities, although they are geared more towards the college kids. Volleyball tournaments, live music, etc...etc...
Great restaurants on the island or a short drive to the mainland. If they are into baseball, Cincinnati Reds have their spring training right here in town. It's an only hour drive to Busch Gardens in Tampa. Boat, jetski rentals, etc...etc...
Siesta Key is more lively than Longboat.
One piece of advice, book early as it gets crowded here during spring break time.
Hope to see you here :-)