Florida holidays - travel guide - Gulf Coast introduction

Clearwater is the largest of Florida's Gulf Coast resorts and is located approximately 130 miles from Orlando making it a great destination for those on Flydrive or Multi centre holidays. Clearwater offers extensive watersports, including game fishing and a lively atmosphere with a good range of shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs.  Within reach is the world famous Busch Gardens Tampa Bay theme park while another popular Clearwater excursion is a boat trip to see dolphins in their natural habitat.

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Laid-back Indian Shores lies on a stunning barrier island on Florida's west coast, right between St. Pete Beach and Clearwater. On its ocean side, you'll find sun-drenched white sands gliding into shimmering Gulf of Mexico waters, creating the perfect playground for families and sun-seekers. All along the sands, watersports, boat trips and fishing expeditions abound, whilst inland, fantastic shopping, dining and evening entertainments await with masses of seafood restaurants, beachside grills, live music bars and more. There's lots to keep the kids smiling including dolphin-spotting trips, playgrounds and pirate cruises, and the irresistible lure of Orlando's fun-filled theme parks, located just under two hour's drive away. Even nearer are the thrilling rides of Busch Gardens® and the lively attractions of St. Pete Beach and Clearwater with their endless beaches, shopping malls, aquariums and golf courses.

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Naples is a stylish costal resort down towards the south of Florida which has an abundance of restaurants and shops and golf courses to keep you busy. You can take a tour around the area on the Naples Trolley tour to get yourself familiar with it before visiting one of the many attractions. Close by is Marco Island which is a sun worshippers paradise with miles of pristine sandy beaches.

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Sarasota, considered the cultural capital of Florida, maintains a laidback beach town feel, while being the home of internationally renowned art museums. The town, developed as a popular winter retreat for wealthy families in the 1920's which in turn created a lively community of artists and  writers. The surrounding beaches are renowned for their beautiful white sands and are among the most popular in Florida.

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North Redington Beach is a lovely tranquil area of Tampa Bay that is popular with summer visitors and families moving to the area, attracted by the tranquil environment, wonderful weather and recreational activities. As with many other resorts in the area, sailing is popular and charters and trips are offered from the marina.  There is a great choice of restaurants and shops to choose from.

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Set nearby idyllic Tampa Bay, St Pete Beach, a picturesque and vibrant location, is home to an endless string of stylish restaurants, eateries and shops as well as white beaches for you to relax on. Look for the family favourite Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay and the adjoining Adventure Island Water Park, offering dozens of wet and wild water rides!

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Madeira Beach is a relaxed beachside town, perfect for a family holiday. The beach is a stunning sheltered stretch of golden sands, wonderful for swimming.  Sailing is a popular sport in the area, and a stroll along the marina is a wonderful way to spend some time exploring. One of the highlights is popular John's Pass Village and Boardwalk, a quaint fishing village with shops, restaurants, and sailing or fishing excursions available.

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With the excitement of Orlando and the relaxing atmosphere of the Gulf Coast, Florida lends itself perfectly to two centre holidays. Spend a week enjoying the magic of the theme parks then head for glorious St Pete's beach where you can soak up the sun and try your hand at some watersports. Just call 0871 622 4367.