Thought some of you might want an update on the red tide in this area as I am starting my fourth day in a rental house directly on the Gulf on Longboat Key.

Mote Marine says red tide is present in medium to high concentrations in Sarasota Bay. I haven't ever experienced red tide before, but I can tell you that the moment we stepped out of our car here on Friday (we live 180 miles north), my husband and I both experienced that tickling sensation in our throats, and dry cough.

It stopped when we went in the house and started again whenever we went out. That's been the experience of everyone who has visited.

On the plus side, we have all gone swimming and it was fine, no rashes or anything and the water felt great!

Just thought I'd give an honest account for those wondering about red tide.

I just returned from a week on Anna Maria Island (north of Sarasota). We were staying directly on the beach and there was no indication of red tide there. No eye, nose or throat problems and we were out on the beach the better part of most days and watched the sunset every evening. We ate at the SandDollar which is smack on the beach. Nary a problem or a sign of red tide.

Looks like I planned my trip just right, as well. I was in Siesta Key a little over a week ago and everything was fine there, as well as in Venice, Englewood, and other areas I visited. Sorry to hear your are experiencing red tide, Postal.

I stopped briefly at Siesta Key beach Sunday morning and there was very smelly seaweed on that usually pristine beach. There was definitely something going on as you could see murky water about a block out in the gulf. I didn't get a cough, which I usually do when red tide is present. TTFN Honoria

Actually, it was much better than I expected based on previous posts!

After two very cool, windy evenings, we awoke this morning to crystal clear water as flat as a lake, dolphins everywhere, and the prettiest day yet! No coughing or throat problems; no dead fish. Much better!