July

I know the my questions is very vague! I am so confused. My dh, 15 month old and I would like to go to Florida later this month. From this board, I have already gathered that vrbo.com is the place to find a place to stay. I am confused where to go in Florida. We would like a very nice beach, good restaurants, maybe some shopping nearby. Some toddler-friendly attractions would be great. Can anyone suggest a destination? Thanks!

dsquared

I think that one of the Gulf coast beaches would probably suit you best - anywhere from Sarasota to Anna Maria Island.

Let's see what other Floridians chime in with.

poss

I agree with the above.

SAnParis

I'm partial to Amelia Island - search Amelia Island or click on my name, you should find plenty of info.

ajcolorado

Clearwater Beach is highly rated for families - the beach is nice and there are lots of choices for accomodations and shopping.

We also enjoyed Treasure Island. We stayed at the Sea Chest Motel.

On the Atlantic side - Lauderdale-by-the-Sea and Hollywood, both in the Ft. Lauderdale area get good recommendations. We're looking at doing a trip there soon. Siesta Key also gets a lot of recommendations.

I also love St. Augustine. It is a great town with lots to see and do and nearby Anastasia Island State Park has a nice beach but the surf is stronger there.

Tandoori_Girl

If you have a 15-month old then find a place with a nice pool. Some kids that age don't like the waves and sand.

Clio

Both Lido Key beach and Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota have beautiful white sand and being on the gulf side the waves are gentler for young ones. My nieces and nephews love to visit me here! Plenty of places to stroll and shop around both beach areas though St. Armands Key by Lido Beach is my favorite.

wow

You may also want to try www.tug2.net for rentals.
I think that Marriott Ocean Pointe(OP) on Singer Island(Palm Beach Shores/near West Palm Beach International airport) wld be a great place for you & your toddler! They have 3 large pools, a "kids" pool, playground. Great beach. Your toddler wld love the water taxi...you can walk there from OP. You may get lucky & find a rental @ www.TUG2.net

Ike

Destin FL.......you won't regret it. All you can do with kids. Great restaurants and many many places to stay right on one of top beaches in U. S. Fly into Ft. Walton Beach........

Ike

Destin FWB website........


http://www.destin-fwb.com/index.cfm?WT.srch=1

birder

I really like Anna Maria Island -- beautiful beaches, very family oriented, lots of casual restaurants. Wish I was there now (and I live in the Tampa area!). Long Boat Key & Siesta Key, just south of Anna Maria Island, are also gorgeous. I love Sanibel also but that's especially for nature lovers.