Where to stay on the West coast, not doing the parks.

Question

We are planning on staying in Florida for two weeks in August next year. Please can someone give us some advice. We liked the idea of West Palm Beach but think it might be out of our budget. We’re renting a 3 bed condo for us and our 2 grown up children. Budget for accom is £4.5K with a futher £4-5K spending money.

We have been to Naples with the children were small and loved it. We like to be able to walk to bars and restaurants. Thank you.

Answer

If you’re planning a two-week stay on Florida’s west coast and aren’t interested in theme parks, there are plenty of options that combine beautiful beaches, walkable dining and nightlife, and comfortable accommodations for your family of three adults plus yourself. With a budget of around £4.5K for lodging and £4–5K for spending money, you have some flexibility to pick a central, walkable location.

Here are some recommended areas and towns to consider:

Fort Myers Beach: Offers a laid-back beach town atmosphere with a long stretch of sand, casual bars, seafood restaurants, and easy walking distance from many condos and rentals. August is hot, but it’s less crowded than popular destinations like Clearwater or Sarasota.
Sanibel & Captiva Islands: Famous for quiet beaches, shelling, and charming local restaurants. Condos are available within walking distance to shops and casual eateries. Ideal for a more relaxed pace and natural beauty.
Sarasota (Siesta Key / Lido Key): Siesta Key has powdery white sand beaches and a small village area with bars, cafés, and boutiques. Lido Key has quieter beaches and luxury condos. Sarasota itself has arts and cultural attractions if you want some city exploration.
Anna Maria Island / Bradenton Beach: Offers a quaint, walkable experience with a mix of casual restaurants and local bars. Beautiful beaches and smaller-scale accommodations make it ideal for a family that prefers calm and charm.
Clearwater Beach / Sand Key: Still popular, but more urbanized. Many condos are within walking distance of restaurants and the beach, and you can find options within your budget for a 3-bedroom unit.

Additional considerations and tips:

Check VRBO, Airbnb, and local property management companies for 3-bedroom condos that include amenities like pools, beach access, and possibly waterfront views.
Book early, especially for August, as summer is high season in Florida’s coastal towns.
Consider proximity to grocery stores and dining if you plan to cook meals or want casual options close by.
August is hot and humid, so properties with air conditioning and shaded outdoor areas are important.
Look for walkable areas so you don’t need a car to enjoy restaurants and local bars, though having a car is useful for exploring nearby towns or beaches.

Overall, based on your budget and preferences, Fort Myers Beach, Anna Maria Island, and Sanibel/Captiva are excellent choices that combine charm, walkability, and a relaxing beach-focused experience without the need for theme park activities. You’re likely to have a memorable and stress-free vacation soaking up Florida’s west coast vibe.

Where to stay on the West coast, not doing the parks.

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