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When it comes to relaxation Tampa and the Gulf Coast are hard to beat with sun drenched beaches and a wild abundance of natural habitat to explore. Spot dolphins and manatees playing in the turquoise waters, canoe through mangrove-lined waterways or play golf on superbly manicured courses.
The Pinellas Suncoast between St. Petersburg and Clearwater encompasses 28 miles of breathtaking barrier island beaches. Sarasota is home to a bustling arts scene and Naples thrives with shopping centres and cutting edge restaurants. And if you haven’t already satisfied your appetite for theme parks, strap yourself in and prepare yourself for the thrill of your life at Busch Gardens Tampa. Book attraction tickets at the same time as your Tampa flights.
Captiva and Sanibel have enviable beaches and an abundance of wildlife in common. They both offer a peaceful retreat and a haven for nature-lovers, cyclists, sailors and golfers alike. Captiva and Sanibel are also renowned for offering the best shelling experience.
Fort Myers offers pure relaxation with great beaches and beautiful natural surroundings, perfect for water sports. Visit the winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford to gain an insight into the lives of these inventors. Local bars and restaurants create a lively atmosphere in the evenings.
Tampa has plenty of ways to fill your day. Take the family to Busch Gardens theme park and enjoy exhilarating rides. Visit Ybor City for vintage clothing stores and bistros. Explore and learn about marine life at The Florida Aquarium and enjoy endless shopping opportunities in the malls.
Clearwater has some of the finest beaches in Florida. Visit Caladesi Island State Park, a beautiful barrier island accessed only by boat. It's a great place for swimming, sunbathing or exploring the three-mile nature trail, on the look out for wildlife. Head to Pier 60 to watch street entertainers, magicians and artists perform nightly.
St Pete’s is great for families. It’s only 45 minutes’ drive from Tampa airport, the white sandy beaches are stunning and there is a good selection of hotels offering family orientated facilities. Enjoy the nightlife of increasingly hip St Petersburg. Or visit quieter Pass-a-Grille for its eclectic shops and great sunset views.
Sarasota is a cultural hotspot and has a charming and sophisticated ambience. Visit quaint Towles Court art district in downtown Sarasota, where the streets are lined with galleries, shops and restaurants. And see one of the largest collections of Ruben's canvasses at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.
Reached by bridge from Lido Beach or Anna Marie Island, Longboat Key is the only island in Sarasota without direct access to the mainland. This creates a secluded retreat along its 10 mile’ stretch of white sands, voted the beast beach in America for 2011 by Dr Beach.
Naples is a small elegant resort with trendy shopping centres, cutting edge restaurants and a plethora of outdoor activities and water sports to enjoy. The Gulf Coast also offers golfers an abundance of beautiful but challenging courses to perfect their game.
| Temp. in degrees celsius | 17 | 17 | 20 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 22 | 21 | 18 |
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
| Rain in mm |
50
|
62
|
65
|
42
|
88
|
179
|
181
|
201
|
190
|
68
|
43
|
47
|
| Hours of sunshine |
7
|
7
|
9
|
10
|
10
|
9
|
9
|
8
|
8
|
8
|
7
|
6
|