Our family (twin 16 year-old boys and a 13 year old girl) is strongly considering a move to the Gulf Coast of Florida. We are looking for that beautiful blue/green water, safe, not a party town, and the basic amenities like movie theaters, restaurants, shopping (which would be fine even if up to a 20 minute drive away. We prefer the quieter lifestyle, as opposed, to a heavily touristy/party town and without high-rise condos on the beach.

Thanks!

First question -- how far south do you want to go? There is a world of difference between the panhandle Gulf Coast and SW Florida Gulf Coast -- starting with the climate.

It will be hard to get away from condos on the beach.

We are totally wide open on distance.

"It will be hard to get away from condos on the beach."

One of the nicest things about Naples. Although at the north end of the city there ARE condos, from Central Naples to the pass at the south end of Naples (at least a couple miles) there are only private homes, wide beaches, and public access at the end of most streets. Residents also get free parking at the beach.

It might be helpful to know exactly why you have apparently already decided that it has to BE the Gulf Coast and have not mentioned anywhere else in the state by location.

Yes, you mentioned the "party" aspect of things (if you think a bunch of kids doesn't ever descend on the Gulf Coast please think again) and be aware that in places where there are not those "condos on the beach" there are very likely going to be a bunch of houses on the beach that George Clooney might have to take out a mortgage to afford.

Neo brings up a very good point about beach access and that free parking. As someone once said about many of the beaches in Florida; "They aren't private BUT we make it very hard to get ON to them and charge a fortune to park nearby."

Somebody is going to bring up the schools issue sooner or later so get ready for that one also.

www.30a.com

Do you have any employment considerations?

How much are you willing/able to pay for housing?