Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park/driving distances/where to stay

[socalgirl]

hi,
we would like to visit this park, but want to also stay at a beachfront location. were thinking of clearwater so that we can do their aquarium too. not sure how far away from clearwater. any other suggestions for beachfront gulf cities to look for?
gayle

 

[Chris2597]

We stayed in Tampa/Clearwater and on the way home stopped at Homosassa Springs. It is a wonderful experience. The manatee are up close and we got an opportunity to see them in a natural environment. The park also has a hippo, alligators, monkeys, other native animals and a snake show. The boat ride is very interesting. A must do if you are on the west coast. We called Homosassa Springs State Park before going and they sent us a brochure. I think it took us about an hour and half to get there from Tampa. I am not sure if there are any beaches closer to the Springs.

 

[lowen]

It took us 2 hours to drive from Homosassa Springs to Clearwater beach. The traffic, construction and endless sets of traffic lights on Highway 19 made it a very slow drive. I believe there is a nice beach at Hudson a little further up the coast towards Homosassa Springs, but I don't know any of the hotels in the area.

 

[socalgirl]

bump