We'd really love some advice on a trip to Florida mid October of this year. We've been before and did the theme parks in Orlando and also Sarasota area. This time round we are thinking of something further south. Any recommendations for a 2 week trip (we don't mind moving around 2-3 destinations) that would give us sunshine, access to white sandy beaches, good shopping, great restaurants etc. By the way will also be 4 months pregnant at the time !

The keys are gorgeous in October but there are no white sandy beaches.

Rent a boat and get out on the water. It is the best way to see the keys.

You could easily split your time between the middle/upper keys like Islamorada (Cheeca Lodge, Casa Morada, and The Moorings have their own private man made sandy beaches) and then hop off to Key West.

You could easily spend a week in Key West lounging by a pool, eating good food, shopping, and seeing the wacky sights.

We went on our honeymoon to Florida in Oct. 2001. We loved going at that time of year because it was warm, but not unbearable. Also the crowds are much smaller. That also may have had something to do with 9/11. We went to Treasure Island (a short drive from Tampa/St. Petersburg) and had a wonderful time. They have a beautiful beach there.

Have you considered St. Augustine? The weather in mid-October is warm, but not excessively hot, and the humidity is much improved. The ocean water temps are still near 80 degrees. As America's first city, there are many historic buildings dating back to the 1600's. The beaches are wonderful, particularly just south of the city at Crescent Beach. St. Augustine has many excellent restaurants at very reasonable prices. Some of our favorites are Saltwater Cowboys, Gypsy Cab Company and the Raintree (for more elegant dining).There are two large outlet malls at the intersection of I-95 and SR 6. Best of all, this is a shoulder season for St. Augustine which means that tourist trafic is light, the "snowbirds" have not yet arrived, and you can enjoy the beaches and many other attractions without large groups of people.

I had the best time at Sanibel/Captiva Island, south of Ft. Meyers. The southern end of Sanibel is a bit crowded. We loved Bowman's Beach a little futher north. Lots of white sand, shells, views, and few people. You can also take some great day cruises from Captiva to more secluded beaches. There is also a wildlife preserve, and a suprisingly interesting shell museum( I keep mentioning the shells because the island in known for its variety and amount of shells). Absolutely beautiful place if you like to take it slow. It's not too far from the attractions of Tampa, which I hear is also very nice. Better beaches than the keys or the East coast, in my opinion. Have fun!

I would also recommend Sanibel/Captiva. Beautiful beaches, lots to do and see (if you like the outdoors/wildlife), you can always do a day trip to Naples or Sarasota. Forty-Fifteen is where we stayed - it's about $800 for a week in your own cottage right on the Gulf. But there are lots of choices, including full homes on Captiva.

Hello,

I have lived in Florida all my life, and I would also have to suggest Sanibel, considering your interests. Sanibel can be very peaceful and relaxing. My parents took their honeymoon there over 30 years ago, and I have been a few times. I remember there was this long trolley nature trail we went on once.