South Florida, Gulf side help

[Gumbo4x4]

Need some help. Plan was to surprise the family with a beach trip the 29th-3rd. But, both my plan A and plan B are looking to have highs in the low 60's. looks like we'll need to drive further South in FL to see 70's (wish it would be 80's). But, I know nothing of places to stay. Anyone want to recommend a nice beach spot South of Clearwater that's reasonably priced? Preferably as far South as possible. I know budget and that part of FL don't always go together, but I'm taking a shot

 

[havaneselover]

My parents are in Naples (have been since the 80s). It's wonderful but outrageously priced. Ritz Carlton is now $1000 a night. Everything on the beach is crazy.

Sarasota?

 

[kiki02]

Need some help. Plan was to surprise the family with a beach trip the 29th-3rd. But, both my plan A and plan B are looking to have highs in the low 60's. looks like we'll need to drive further South in FL to see 70's (wish it would be 80's). But, I know nothing of places to stay. Anyone want to recommend a nice beach spot South of Clearwater that's reasonably priced? Preferably as far South as possible. I know budget and that part of FL don't always go together, but I'm taking a shot

We're here (SFl) how far can you go? east or west? Budget?

 

[Gumbo4x4]

Couple hours South of Clearwater would have to be max. Looked at the Keys, and that's just too far. Cheaper would be better. My plan A location would have been about $700 and plan B about $1,000 (both for 5 nights).

 

[Elleshoodat]

Try Anna Maria Island. It's an hour south of Tampa, and generally cheaper than Sarasota and Naples.

 

[ShiPooOwner]

We've rented many beautiful fully equipped vacation homes in SWFL in Rotonda West which is about 15 minutes by car from Boca Grande and Englewood beaches. Another 15 minutes and you can be in Venice which also has a beautiful beach. Just go to VRBO.com and look under Rotonda West rentals. The temperatures are predicted in the 70's for the next ten days. It's halfway between Sarasota and Fort Myers.

 

[lakelandgal70]

Siesta Key area is nice. Also Fort Myers, Cape Coral area.