Or rather a 2nd home there. What spots would you recommend for a beachfront condo for a couple in their 40s/50s? Locations we are considering are Sarasota, Naples, and adjacent areas. Not limited to those areas. We want to be not far from an airport and are looking for perhaps a rather quiet or "up & coming" area where prices aren't sky-high. Would also consider southeast coast - Lauderdale by the Sea? (Would love Keys but too much traveling for quick weekend getaways). Any help or ideas for web resources much appreciated.

I really do think the Sarasota-Bradenton area is pretty unbeatable, although prices have probably gotten a lot higher in recent years. I know a couple in their 50s who retired to Sarasota about 10 years ago and I've stayed with them there -- it's a lovely area. They are not beachfront but have a nice single-family home with private pool on a golf course (both avid golfers) and are about a 5-minute drive from the beach. The Sarasota airport is very convenient in my opinion because it's not too huge. They are very happy there and I can see why. There is a nice community feeling in that area. I personally think the gulf side is nicer than the east coast of Florida but that's just a matter of personal preference. I do think the Lauderdale area is more built up though.

I'm sure you've heard what Spectacular beaches (Sugar-white sand, etc...) we have here in Northwest Florida (between Pensacola and Panama City). The Destin area is very "up-and-coming" as is the little Victorian village of Seaside (featured in "The Truman Show"). Very nice area and not as overly crowded as South Florida.

Good luck!

Keely, Unfortunately both Sarasota and Naples are well discovered and no bargain pricewise. I've heard recently that Sarasota has surpassed even Naples in prices.

Close to Sarasota but not quite as pricey *yet* is Anna Maria Island--it's close enough to take advantage of the cultural offerings, restaurants and shopping in Sarasota, yet still retains a small town feel. Don't know how much longer that will last though!

You should look at the northern Palm Beach County/Southern Martin County area. Beachfront building has been ceased due to zoning (some older buildings are on the beach), but all the new buildings are directly across the street, and have beach view. This area is very quiet, yet only a 15-20 minute ride to Downtown West Palm Beach- a city that has been totally rehabbed and has incredible restaurants and shops. As far as weekend getaways, you are 1.5 hours from Miami, 45 minutes from Ft Lauderdale, 2 hours from Orlando, and Palm Beach International Airport is only a 20 minute drive. Good luck! Feel free to email me for more info.

Since this subject came up friends of mine love Sawgrass, I believe it is not far from St. Augustine. Does anyone know about that area. They love it!

Port St. Lucie in Martin County. Peaceful, prices not exorbitant and less than 1 hour - I'd say about 40 min. from W. Palm Beach Int'l. airport. on East Coast. beautiful there. Welcome!

Don't totally ignore the Northeast coast of Fla. Yes, the beach there isn't as pretty, but the Jacksonville Airport is great, real estate is reasonable, and there are some pretty areas along the coast. Amelia Islanc south through St. Augustine. I think it could be the next up and coming part of Fla. Nearly everyplace mentioned so far on this site has been developed to heck and gone.

The area south of Sarasota, Nokomis to Venice, is a lovely area with wonderful beaches, and it's very quiet, still has some nice stands of pines and is not overly developed or overpriced. It's close enough, though to Sarasota.

Each & every one of these wonderful suggestions is very helpful. Many thanks!