In January and February of 2022, we explored the west coast of Florida from Tampa to San Marco Island. It’s understandable that people want to be in this area: the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the laid back atmosphere that just makes you want to sing the Margaritaville tune, and fantastic restaurants with reasonable prices draw you into this relaxed and refreshing area.
Our favorites of our 2-month explore were the sunset drum circles, music scene, sweet-tasting gulf shrimp, manatees that congregated at the Manatee Viewing Center at the power plant on Apollo Beach just south of Tampa , and super-softest white sand of Siesta Key.
Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center
Want to see an aggregation of manatees for free? Then head on up to Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center on Apollo Beach to see manatees hovering in the waters warmed by the power plants. You can also pay to pet their rays. Some food is available for purchase or you could bring your own lunch. There are two parking lots, one is a walk along a trail to the viewing center. If you have little ones, bring a stroller or a wagon or arrive earlier in the day.
Treasure Island and Pass A-Grille
Treasure Island offers sand almost as soft and white as Siesta Key. We felt like we had a private beach, since only the people from the mostly low-rise condos and hotels are there. To discover a secret treasure drive 20 minutes south to Pass A-Grille Beach. Enjoy the shops, restaurants, and the lively beach
Bradenton Beach
Bradenton Beach is a town on Anna Marie Island. There are very few parking lots, and the island is only 2 to 4 short blocks wide. So, you simply walk to the beach from your rental house or 2 story small condo/motel. The housing is a combination of old Florida concrete 1 story houses, 2 story houses with the garage under the 2nd floor, or a few new Spanish-style 2 or 3 story homes.
The three towns on Anna Marie Island are small, so you have a wonderful sense of being away from busy Sarasota, with only Long Boat Key separating you from Sarasota’s famous St. Armand Circle. The water is a beautiful blue and calm most days, and the beaches feel private, since there are no public parking lots along the beach. Enjoy great sandwiches, including Korean BBQ, from The Smoqehouse in Bradenton Beach or stop at super casual beachside grill at Anna Maria Island Public Beach. For an upscale meal dine at Beach Bistro.
Sarasota and Siesta Key
Sarasota offers a bigger city feel with a few must-visit places, such as Siesta Key Beach. Reserve time to go to St. Armand’s Circle for upscale shops and restaurants and South Lido Key Beach Park on the Gulf for sunset. Plus, if you like bluesy rock, do not miss The Blue Rooster. Treat your feet to Siesta Key’s softest white sand and imbibe or dine in the small, happenin’ village with lively restaurants, steel drum music, and Key West vibes.
Long Boat Key
Nearby Longboat Key is a quiet escape easily accessible from St. Armand’s Circle and just to the north. Drive up Longboat Key for a day trip. Enjoy a short stroll at Bayfront Recreation Park. Be sure to stop at some of the beaches and enjoy a meal at Mar Vista Dockside.
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