which beach?

[nizziek]

We are going to Florida in June/July with our two sons, aged 15 and 12. They are keen to spend a couple of days at the beach. We've been to Marco Isalnd previously, but we think that it may be a bit quiet now that they are older. Also, we don't really want to go that far. We were thinking of the Clearwater/Indian Rocks area, but after reading other postings I am worried that the area does not seem to be very highly recommended. What is your opinion - Atlantic Coast or Gulf Coast? Which resort/hotel? They basically want to spend some time doing watersports etc at the beach. I'd appreciate some views/advice.

Karen

 

[JohnnySharp]

In terms of quality of the beach I would go for Clearwater, it is the best one we have visited - you also have St.Petes nearby.

However, for quality of hotels and more to do I would opt for Miami, but obviously it is a good 3hours plus drive away from Orlando.

I am sure that if you are just going for a couple of days Clearwater would be fine, I would not recommend staying there for a longer period unless you just want to relax on the beach, something that is popular given the fact that Orlando can be tiring and people do like a contrast.

Generally speaking the beaches on the West Coast are nicer which is why they are so popular despite the likes of Cocoa/Daytona on the East side being closer to Orlando.

 

[tyke]

Gulf coast for me !!!

We have visited clearwater/st petes and cocoa/daytona and much prefered the gulf region.

The beaches of clearwater are fantastic - very clean and great facilities.

You must ride the Sea Screamer - its great fun - be warned you will get soaked !

Click Here to check out the gulf coast beaches.

tyke

PS - the water on the gulf coast is also much much warmer than that of the atlantic !!!