Gulf Coast Beach Holidays 2020/2021

Miles of golden sand and clear, blue waters

Indeed, some of the world’s finest beaches can be found here, including those at Clearwater and St Petersburg – or St Pete’s as the latter is now officially known. A natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts, there are water sports in abundance, beachcombing on quiet offshore islands, volleyball, horse riding, cycling and golfing.

Prices from £713pp

Where to stay in Gulf Coast Beaches

Holidays in Captiva Island

Captiva Island, the sister island of Sanibel, is where escapists come for sun, sailing and spectacular sunsets. Admire the dusky pink skies from the lookout point at Mucky Duck Pub. And from May until October, thousands of hatching turtles scramble along these shores.

Holidays in Fort Myers

With dazzling beaches, top-notch seafood and a laid-back vibe, this northern tip of Estero Island is likened to the tropical Caribbean. Paddle out to meet the ‘locals’ – the dolphins, manatees and pelicans – and by cocktail hour, Times Square bustles with entertainment.

Holidays in Naples and Marco Island

A beautiful beach community, Naples and the neighbouring Marco Island have become known as the ‘finest town in Florida’. Find an eclectic mix of restaurants and shops, pristine beaches and the lush, adventure-filled Everglades right on its doorstep.

Holidays in Sarasota

Those who like to go off-grid will adore this piece of ‘hidden Florida’. Peaceful beaches, kayaking and fishing excursions make it a coastal paradise. Culture and cuisine is high on the agenda too - find waterfront restaurants, galleries, opera and more.

Holidays in St. Pete/Clearwater

There’s a distinct relaxed vibe in St. Pete/Clearwater, thanks to five islands of beaches, a Caribbean-like climate and those sensational Pier 60 sunsets. Clearwater Beach which was voted as America’s Best Beach on TripAdvisor’s annual list of the 25 Best Beaches for 2019, with St. Pete Beach ranked at number 4. Add in some wonderful sealife safari cruises and you have the recipe for an unforgettable family escape.

Hotels in Gulf Coast Beaches

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Essential Information for Gulf Coast Beaches

Local time

-5hrs

Currently

Language

American English

Currency

US Dollar $

Official currency of the United States

Flight information

Orlando (MCO)

8-9h

Direct flights

Flight schedule

Daily flights from across the UK

are our main airline partner

Do I need a Visa?

Yes. You'll need to obtain approval no less than 72 hours prior to travel to the US via the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) scheme.

Find out more about Travel Visas here »

Driving Times

Our hotels on Florida's Gulf Coast are approx a 2-hour drive from Orlando and only a short drive to Busch Gardens.

Highlights of the Gulf Coast Beaches

Florida’s Gulf Coast offers a Caribbean-like climate and unbeatable wildlife. Here are its best attractions.

Beaches

Visit the unspoilt beaches on Siesta Key and Longboat Key off Sarasota.
Hop on a boat from Bonita Springs to the ultra-secluded Big Hickory Island Beach.
Tigertail beach on Marco Island is great for those with kids.
Kayak off the beautiful Clam Pass Beach in Naples or go shelling on Vanderbilt beach.
Find sugary sands and excellent water sports on Fort Myers Beach, Estero Island.

Sightseeing and Attractions

Head north of Clearwater to Tarpon Springs. Explore the Greek culture and antique shops.
Explore the art galleries, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. For a bit of Old Florida, check out the Historic Spanish Point in Osprey.

Adventure and Wildlife

Take the kids to see the animals at Naples Zoo or the enchanting Naples Botanic Gardens.
Spot crocs, manatees and flamingo in the Everglades National Park.

Luxury

Tee off at the Dunes Golf Club on Sanibel Island or the famous courses of Sarasota.
Stay in a private villa in Fort Myers, home to glorious swimming pools with lakeside views.
Kick back with private cabanas and butler service at South Seas Island Resort, Captiva.

Food and Drink

Sip on a sundowner and enjoy top-notch seafood at Pier 60 in Clearwater.
Try honey infused pastries and coffee in the Greek restaurants of Tarpon Springs.
Visit the Farmer’s Market in Sarasota for local produce and Floridian mangoes.

Events and Festivals

March: The Gulf Coast celebrates its abundance of lobster in the Crawfish Festival, St Pete.
October: Fort Myers hosts the annual Beach Pirate Festival.

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Miles of golden sand and clear, blue waters