If the thought of holidaying in the Gulf Coast region sounds less than inviting since the big oil spill, take note that not all areas are being affected equally. Officials in Florida are building barriers to stop the oil washing up on the Florida Gulf Coast beaches and so far, it`s not hit that region, though the Governor is taking every precaution to ensure safety. Bear in mind that almost every vacation rental in Florida has a swimming pool, so if you are after a dip or swim, it`s still possible to get your swimming in at the rental and enjoy the sunbathing and scenery of the beaches.
Let`s hope, however, that the oil doesn’t wing it’s way down there, because the Florida Gulf coast has some of the loveliest beaches in America.
Sand Key Park is on a Key between the Florida mainland and the Gulf. It`s both a beach and a park, the areas separated by Clearwater Pass. The beach itself has cabana rentals, outdoor showers and acres of beautiful sand and shoreline. One one part of the beach, there are families of sea turtles and they leave their eggs on the shore. The park bit is great for sand free picnics, the kiddies ( it has a playground) and even doggies have their own dog park. Sand Key is also the headquarters for the program to build a reef in the Gulf. It also boasts a large salt marsh, where you can spot herons, owls and other exotic birds. There are nine boardwalks leading to the beach and these are fantastic for romantic moonlight strolls by the Gulf.
And while we are on romance, what better place to start than Honeymoon Island State Park, which used to be called ( and how’s this for rebranding) Hog Island. There are sandy beaches galore, tidal flats and wonderful, balmy mangrove swamps. Swimming, fishing, snorkeling are all popular here, as well as just lazing in the sun with a fat paperback and a long cool drink. There are nature trails and a pine forest, if the sun all gets a bit much. It`s also a haven for shell collectors, with a huge variety of shells that wash up in the shallows or on the beach itself.
One of the most famous beach resorts on the Florida Gulf Coast is Pensacola. It’s sunny with gentle breezes and the sand is about as pristine white as sand can get. Deep sea fishing, surfing, scuba diving, kayaking and sailing are all big here, but there is also a little village full of boutiques and spa treatment centers. There are also plenty of free concerts during the popular holiday seasons and during the less popular ones, such as winter and fall, temperatures are milder but the beaches are less crowded, so if getting a big tan is not your number one plan, this so called “secret season” is the time to go.
Caladesi Island State Park is ranked as one of America’s top beaches and one of the few completely natural islands on the coast. You get there by boat or ferry from the mainland and it`s perfect for swimming and sunbathing. A three mile nature trail offers a variety of exotic wildlife and there is also a three mile kayaking trip through the mangrove swamps.
For a more private beach experience, try the beaches on Lido Key, particularly North Lido Beach. It`s really geared for very confident swimmers or paddlers, as there are no lifeguards and rather strong currents. For a more familiar beach experience, Lido Beach has restrooms, cabanas, gift shops and a playground.
Because of the uncertainly of the Gulf situation, prices are dropping and it`s relatively easy to book cheap holidays here, particularly package deals. But all being well, the beaches will remain as lovely as they are.
