Way OT

[fatboy]

But, calling on our friends in the sunny Florida area, I am wanting to find an area in FL for a weeks vacation next spring. Trading a time share week, would like to keep my dollars in the US. What are some suggestions for a laid back area, preferably along the beach, not incredibly crowded........I know, asking for a lot, ideas?

 

[FM William Burns]

Being a native South Floridian.....I always liked Captiva Island off Ft. Myers. Sanibel became too commercial and Captiva was nice and laid back.

http://www.sanibel-captiva.org/stay/index.asp

 

[mtlogcabin]

Captiva is a beautiful spot. I am flying to Long Boat Key (just below St Pete) for a wedding next week Be there 8 days. I 'll ask the brother in-law what he might recommend

 

[brudgers]

Cape San Blas on the Redneck Riviera - bout 40 miles south east from Panama City by car (about 20 by boat), absolutely no action, dogs allowed on beach + the cape runs north-south so the sun sets over the water.

Best part is no resort condos...oops, never mind.

 

[Bryan Holland]

SW Florida (my home) can't be beat. Boating, fishing, golfing, trails, dining, relaxation, its all here... Look into Long Boat Key, Siesta Key, Punta Gorda & Boca Grande.

(Stay away from the east coast and south Florida, except for maybe the Keys...)

 

[brudgers]

Used to go out to Boca Grande with my grandparents when it was still primarily a phosphate port and none of the development was outside the town.

 

[Code Neophyte]

Fatboy,

Took the whole family - sister-in-law and all - ala Family Vacation ("Family Truckster" fully loaded, including roof rack - cue Lindsay Buckingham's 'Holiday Road') - to Panama City last month. The surrounding area's very much 'commercialized', but the beaches - I though - were as nice - or nicer - than Ft. Lauderdale or Tampa/Clearwater (not to mention, a day's drive closer!!!). I'd go back. Lots of 'night life', too, if it's a non-family vacation!

 

[mtlogcabin]

for a weeks vacation next spring

Spring Break (college)and Family vacations in Florida will rule out all of the east coast and Pensacloa down thru Panama city.