USA Beach holiday

El_Rey

My parents are looking for a holiday in May 2010 and are considering going to the States, probably Florida.

They aren't interested in theme parks so Orlando is a non-starter. They are looking for a destination with nice beaches and plenty of other things to do such as: shopping, restaurants, bars and pubs etc. They would also prefer not to have to drive. Can any Moneysavers recommend a nice destination that would be suitable for them?

jeanniebeanie_2

I think that outside of the theme park area they would really miss out without transport. Florida in general is designed around the motorist with wide fast roads, no pavements (sidewalks) and everything very spread out.

Some of the small barrier islands like Anna-Maria are lovely and do encourage non drivers with safe bicycle paths/ hire and a free trolly bus going around the island, but would be tricky to get to in the first place without driving.

richardw

Sanibel Islands but may need a car, or taxis.

Backbiter

The Keys are great but the beaches down there aren't!

I'd look at either Naples/ Marco Island in SW Florida or St Augustine in the NE. Both are really nice places with great beaches.

Incapuppy

St Petes and thereabouts :T

El_Rey

Thanks for the suggestions.

Please keep them coming.

stoneman

I second Naples, but it can be pricy to stay there. We loved Clearwater Beach

El_Rey

Does anyone else have any suggestions?

snowyowl

Sarasota has nice beaches and plenty going on. Driving there is pretty relaxed and nice and slow.

El_Rey

snowyowl wrote: »

Sarasota has nice beaches and plenty going on. Driving there is pretty relaxed and nice and slow.

Is driving a must there?

Finefoot

Having lived there, St Petersburg would be a good place for them.