The Gulf Coast of Florida is one of my favorite places to visit, not only are there many beautiful beaches, but there are also many hidden things to do that make the Gulf of Florida an amazing vacation spot.
Siesta Key
Siesta Key is more than a TV show, it is a beautiful little island with an 8 mile beach that is absolutely stunning. White sands for miles and clear blue water farther then the eye can see. I have never been to this area, so my fiance and I woke up early to venture out and see just how beautiful it was. Our first stop though was for breakfast. Now, we are early risers and love a good breakfast, so I trusted in Google and FB reviews of local places and came stumbled upon an amazing little place called Another Broken Egg Cafe. We were greeted by a lovely host who happened to be from CT, and she seated us immediately. The place was so cute, and had an outdoor seating area as well as an indoor area. The menu was very unique, there were southern favorites, and traditional classics, as well as some seasonal specials. The waitress had heard it was our first time there, and she brought these amazing Biscuit Beignets. Well those were a hit. They were warm, and like a dough boy crossed with a donut, with powered sugar and Marmalade to dip in. Needless to say, I was not passing those up and I’m glad I didn’t because they were so good. Since I was now off my healthy eating kick, I decided to go all in and try the Ipanema Estate Pancakes, and I was sold! These coffee infused Pankcakes were topped with fresh strawberries and irish whipped cream and caramel sauce. This breakfast place was the best place to start our vacation for sure. So, if you’re looking for something unique and amazing, I highly recommend trying this place out for sure.
So, while at Siesta Key, the beach is a must to see. The white Sand and blue waters are breathtaking to say the least. While on our visit, it just happened to be Valentine’s Weekend and the beach offered a Vow renewal Ceremony at 6 pm on Feb 14. The beach still had a few things left over from that evening of events that we were able to see.
The Most amazing thing to do while at Siesta Key is the Sunday night Drum circle. This free event takes place every Sunday evening, year-round, one hour before sunset. Starting back in 1996 as a ceremony for the autumn equinox, then only during the celebration of full moons, it became so popular that it is now held weekly. Many locals and tourist, young and old, join together to drum away the day as the sun sets. There are belly dancers, hula hooping, sword performers, people dancing and drumming away. You do not need to bring a drum with you, but you can bring a blanket and chairs and sit back and watch the entertainment as the sun sets, or you can bring your dancing feet and feel the beat with the sand between your toes. I absolutely recommend seeing this beautiful ceremony while in the area, you will not be disappointed.
Caspersen Beach
Casperen Beach is South of Siesta Key, and loacted in the Venice Beach area, but worth the drive. This beach isn’t anything like Siesta Key’s beaches, it’s not mile views of white sand, but it is a must see even so. Why visit if it’s not at breathtaking as other beaches in Florida? Well, because it has a story behind it, with free souvenirs if you’re lucky.
To get to the beach itself you have to walk from the parking area, and make sure you are in the correct location. There is a little nature trail to find the prefect spot, but you can also find your way when you see others wading in the water with sifting rakes. Why? Well, because they are looking for ancient fossilized Shark teeth from the gigantic Megalodon.
If you don’t have a sifting rake, don’t get discouraged, because you can still find them along the washed up areas with all the unique shells, but if you want a purchase a Sifting rake, many stores in Venice sell them, or you can go up to the pier near Sharky’s restaurant and purchase one in that gift shop.
While in the area, make sure you watch out for the Gopher Tortoise, stop and visit the Pier and Venice to see the gift shops, and restaurants. Sharky’s on the Pier has out door and indoor searing, and the tables with the baskets on top are first come first serve, if you don’t want to wait too long for a table. Also Venice has some great food options like the Daiquiri Deck. So take a stroll and enjoy the shops and little history in the town.
Lido Key & St. Armands Circle
Lido Key, a barrier island, is located off the coast of Sarasota, and wont disappoint you. This beautiful beach is paradise, with its white sand and Caribbean blue waters. This is island has many Luxury hotels and shops near by and very relaxing.
Just around the corner is St. Armands Circle, which has a European feel to it with its architecture. St. Armands Circle has many specialty shops, boutiques and many restaurants. while walking the streets there are many statues and the Circus Ring of Fame, which is a sidewalk of circus stars.
If you are hungry, I definitely recommend eating at Tommy Bahamas, the staff and food was amazing.
Weeki Wachee
Weeki Wachee is known for the entertaining mermaid shows, but a fun thing to do besides the show, is to go Kayaking. You can rent a kayak form the Kayak Shack and they will bring you to the begining of the river for you to kayak back. While there you may come across the most beautiful animals, the Manatee. The water is a beautiful color and so clear you can see the fish underneath as clear as if they were in a fish tank. While kayaking you can stop in areas for some rope swinging or jump off a few trees if your daring enough. This is a must if you’re looking for an outdoors adventure.
Final Thoughts
The Gulf Coast side of Florida is an amazing place to visit, for relaxing by the beaches, taking adventures, shopping or even a night out. When visiting new places, always look at reviews and hidden things to do. I will make sure that on my next vacation, I will find local and fun things to do, and share them with you all.