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Insider's Guide to Florida's Gulf Coast

There’s something about Florida’s Gulf Coast that just sticks with you. Maybe it’s the sugar-white sand that's so soft under your toes, the Gulf sunsets that look like paintings, or the laid-back pace that lets you finally exhale. I’ve been fortunate to spend a lot of time all over the gulf coast which makes it one of my most favorite destinations.


Whether you're chasing art and culture, seafood and sunsets, or want to lay by a pool with a good book—this stretch of coastline delivers.

Image courtesy of Hotel Effie Sandestin, Autograph Collection
Image courtesy of Hotel Effie Sandestin, Autograph Collection

🌴 Where to Go: Your Gulf Coast Cheat Sheet


🛶 30A (Panhandle) This scenic stretch of the Panhandle is pure beach-town bliss: think pastel cottages, bikes with baskets, farmers' markets, and that timeless family-vacation magic. S


🍹 Tampa & St. Pete For those who want beach time and city buzz, this area hits the sweet spot. Tampa brings waterfront dining, pro sports, and a Cuban soul. St. Pete feels artsy and alive—with bold murals, galleries, and a beachy downtown vibe.


🌺 Naples & Fort Myers Further south, things get a little more polished—but still deeply relaxing. Naples is all about luxe resorts, golf, and gourmet dining. Fort Myers is more laid-back, and serves as the gateway to beautiful Sanibel and Captiva.



☀️ When to Go

The Gulf Coast shines from late December through May, after hurricane season and before summer crowds. March and April are sweet spots—especially for families looking to trade spring snow for sandy toes.



✈️ How to Get There

  • 30A: Pensacola (PNS), Destin–Fort Walton Beach (VPS), or Panama City Beach (ECP).

  • Tampa/St. Pete: Tampa International (TPA) or Sarasota (SRQ).

  • Naples/Fort Myers: Southwest Florida International (RSW).



🚗 Getting Around

Renting a car is a must in most areas—though in 30A, you’ll also want to rent a bike for the ultimate "coastal cruising" experience. In downtown Tampa and St. Pete, streetcars and trolleys add a little charm to your commute.



🛏️ Where to Stay (And Score Perks!)

🌊 30A: Hotel Effie Sandestin, Autograph Collection

Tucked inside the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, this retreat blends chic, Southern charm with bayside luxury. Guests can slip between the rooftop pool, celebrity-chef dining, and easy beach access all day long. Book with me to receive Fora’s Marriott LUMINOUS partner perks, which include a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.




🐚 Tampa & St. Pete: The Tampa EDITION

Sleek, design-forward, and buzzing with energy. Rooms feel like a calm, minimalist retreat from the lively streets below. Its rooftop pool, manicured terrace, and destination dining pull in both locals and travelers. Book with me to receive Fora’s Marriott STARS partner perks, which include a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.




🌅 Naples: The Ritz-Carlton, Naples

Radiating modern coastal elegance, this retreat is even newly refreshed. Guests split time between two resort pools, powdery sand, and a spa that’s as serene as the sea. Sunset here is an event, best enjoyed from the beach bar. Book with me to receive Fora’s Marriott STARS partner perks, which include a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.




🐬 What to Do

30A (Panhandle)

  • Seaside & Rosemary Beach: Charming pastel cottages, boutiques, and cafés perfect for a laid-back day.

  • Scenic Biking: Ride along 30A, stopping at galleries and enjoying Gulf views.

  • Water Adventures: Kayak or paddleboard on rare dune lakes like Western and Deer Lake.

  • Boating: Toast the sunset on a private charter from Destin Harbor.

  • Point Washington Forest: Hike to hidden beaches and serene dune trails.

Tampa & St. Petersburg

  • Hyde Park Village: Shop and sip in Tampa’s chic open-air district.

  • EDGE District: Discover murals, indie galleries, and local studios.

  • Dalí Museum: Explore the largest Dalí collection and modern art exhibits.

  • Beaches: Chill on Pass-a-Grille or Fort De Soto with space to paddle, picnic, or relax.

  • Boating: Sunset cruises sail from St. Pete or Tampa Bay.

Fort Myers & Naples

  • Naples Art District: Visit working artists' studios for a local art experience.

  • Beaches: Enjoy peaceful sands at Vanderbilt, Clam Pass, or Tigertail Beach.

  • Naples Pier: Spot dolphins at sunrise.

  • Delnor-Wiggins Park: Ideal for shelling, swimming, and sunbathing.

  • Boating: Sail at sunset from Marco Island aboard a catamaran.



🚢 Bonus: Set Sail from Tampa

Did you know Tampa is a cruise hub? Perfect if you want to add a few nights of sunshine before setting sail to the Caribbean. From Norwegian to Celebrity, I can help you pick the right cruise—and include exclusive onboard perks.


This stretch of Florida has been part of my family’s story for decades—and now it’s part of my clients’ stories too. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a multigenerational trip that needs to hit everyone’s wishlist, the Gulf Coast has a way of bringing people together. And when you’re ready to plan it, I’ll make sure you travel like a VIP.



Let’s start planning your Gulf Coast getaway—because the only thing better than talking about it… is being there. 🏖️







 
 
 

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