The Florida Gulf Coast sometimes gets overlooked in favor of the natural wonders of the Everglades and the Keys, and the glitzier, more glamorous, and frankly noisier charms of and the Miami coast.
But the Florida Gulf Coast boasts the best beaches in the state, stunning sunsets, and an ambiance and atmosphere that is just a little less hectic than elsewhere in Florida. This makes it a wonderful option for a Florida vacation.
So if you are looking for a Florida destination this summer, why not think about the Florida Gulf Coast? You can arrive or leave by boat from the and explore the best of this part of the state with this 7-day itinerary. You wonât regret a visit to this excellent corner of Florida.
Day One
Spend your first day exploring Tampa. This city carried a slightly poor reputation for many years but is now a vibrant, bustling metropolis with a wonderful arts and cultural scene and some brilliant dining options. Donât miss Busch Gardens, historic Ybor City, or the chance to see manatees in Tampa Bay.
Day Two
Exploring around Tampa is also a joy, with neighboring St Pete and Clearwater serving up some of the finest beaches in Florida. St Pete also boasts the fabulously weird Salvador Dali Museum, one of the best collections of Daliâs surreal art in the world.
Day Three and Four
Take a journey south, to Sarasota and . Sarasota is home to another one of Floridaâs best beaches – Siesta Key but this city also boosts a range of cultural wonders and delights to explore. Try the Ringling Museum and discover the history of circus in America as well as some stunning art collections and an amazing historic mansion.
After Sarasota, head over to Sanibel Island. This charming and sophisticated haven is peace, tranquility, and beauty personified. Just wandering around this glorious natural spot could take up a day, but be sure to save time to seek out the wonderful birds and wildlife that call the island home.
Day Five
takes you from southern to northern Florida, taking in much of the natural beauty and exciting attractions that the state has to offer. Heading from Fort Myers to Crystal River is roughly three and a half hours on the road, but youâll want to make frequent stops along the way.
Start off with Charlotte Harbor State Park and Myakka State Forest, and aim for lunch on the beach at Bradenton Beach. Take the Sunshine Skyway Bridge across Tampa Bay, and keep your eyes out for Pinellas National Wildlife Reserve and Fort De Soto National Park out your left-hand window. Once youâve got St Pete and Tampa in your rearview mirror, just relax and enjoy the lush, verdant scenery.
Day Six
offers the chance to explore Floridaâs magnificent natural hot springs as well as getting up close and personal with one of the most fascinating creatures to call the state home, the manatee. Crystal River itself is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with manatees, and the crystal-clear waters of the river are extraordinarily beautiful in their own right.
If you have the time, Homosassa Spring Wildlife State Park offers the chance to see bald eagles and flamingos, while the Crystal River Archaeological State Park and Museum is a deep dive into the history of human habitation of the area over the last few thousand years!
Day Seven
Make your last day on the Florida Gulf Coast a relaxing one. Grab a late breakfast, take in a last beach at Hunter Springs or Fort Island, then drive leisurely back to Tampa and head home.
This post is a guest contribution from Frankie from – check out their blog for more fun travel content!