I need advice. We are considering a trip with 2 kids from november 6 to 11. Would like to know if it would be worthwhile staying at beachfront motel or resort at that time. How warm or cold is it then and would it be nice to venture into Gulf water at that time? We have a Grandma to visit who lives west of Orlando but thought of staying somewhere different this time and have never seen the west coast. Thanks for any help about this issue and also any lodging reccomondations.

The water in the Gulf will be getting a little cold for swimming by November. I guess it depends what you're used to, but it's too cold for me. There are many beach areas to consider including Clearwater Beach, St. Petersburg Beach, and then Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Beach south of St. Petersburg.

It depends where you are from? I live near Clearwater and we would never go to the beach or in the gulf in November! However, anyone who is from up north would be in the water thru December, sometimes even January! Sometimes, the weather is warm here thru Thanksgiving; sometimes not; keep checking www.weather.com

The beach is beautiful year-round. I love going to the beach, even if the water is too cold to go in. The kids can still play in the sand, throw a frisbee, fly a kite, and adults can lounge on blankets reading, eating, or just enjoying the view with the soothing sounds of the waves. November might be a bit cool and maybe windy, but just bring a windbreaker and enjoy a day at the beach. No reason not to stay at a beachfront hotel or resort.

Thanks for the great advice-pro and con.