Florida’s Central Gulf Coast has always been known as a popular tourist destination where visitors can escape the stress of everyday life. With pristine beaches lapped by warm waters, quaint towns overlooking the coast and a fantastic food scene, vacationers can’t go wrong at any Central Gulf Coast vacation rentals. There’s something here to engage every interest and satisfy every palate.
Climate
While planning a stay in Florida’s Central Gulf Coast vacation rentals, it’s important to prepare for the weather. Here, warm temperatures and blue skies can be enjoyed almost all year-long. During the summer months, temperatures skyrocket into the 90s with thunderstorms bringing relief from the heat in the afternoon. Milder temperatures and lots of sunshine are what characterize the spring and fall seasons. The evenings might even be chilly enough to need a light jacket. The winter is one of the best times to visit Central Gulf Coast, though. Beaches are less crowded and temperatures hover in the 60s and 70s, which will feel very warm if you’re coming from a colder location.
Things to Do
The Central Gulf Coast area is less commercial than many of Florida’s other regions. In this part of the state visitors can appreciate a relaxing atmosphere, enjoy the beaches and clear skies, and experience the spirit of community. Some of the major cities that tourists flock to include:
- Tampa – Drive along the scenic Sunshine Skyway Bridge that spans Tampa Bay or cast your fishing line from the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, the longest fishing pier in the world. Downtown, see a show at the Tampa Theatre, an elaborate “movie palace” and beloved community landmark, or let loose at Busch Gardens.
- Sarasota – Just south of Tampa, Sarasota is known for its white sand beaches and sparkling waters where everyone should enjoy being a beach bum. Lounge at South Lido Park or take a trip to Siesta Key for prime sunning. Play a round of golf at University Park Country Club before cooling off inside at the Ringling Circus Museum.
- St. Petersburg – A cultural hub for arts, museums, relaxation and more, there’s lots to do in St. Petersburg. Visit The Dali Museum and the Chihuly Collection to see incredible works of art. Outdoors, explore the intra-coastal waterways via kayak and spend a day swimming, fishing and picnicking at Fort De Soto Park spread out over five offshore keys.
Regional Foods & Dining
When you’re relaxing in Gulf Coast beach rentals, it goes without saying that you should snack on the local specialty foods served here. Florida is famous for two types of foods in particular: seafood and citrus fruit. Florida is an excellent location to get tons of fresh seafood like grouper, spiny lobster, stone crabs and clams. For some of the best grouper around, head to Maximo Seafood Shack located in St. Petersburg at the end of the Maximo Marina’s Main Dock. Oranges are Florida’s claim-to-fame, but the state also has great coconuts, star fruit, and mangoes that star in many desserts and fresh-made juices. You’ll also find mouthwatering key lime pies everywhere you go in the Gulf Coast. Euphemia Haye in Longboat Key has a heavenly dessert menu where patrons can linger over key lime pie and live music.
Events
If the beach isn’t enough of a draw, come for one of the awesome area events. The Gasparilla Pirate Fest in January beckons buccaneers and pirate wenches from near and far for plundering, pillaging and bootleg fun. A short drive inland in Plant City is the Florida Strawberry Festival with luscious strawberries and live music held every February. In June, Savor Sarasota kicks off the summer with a celebration of local foods that visitors can devour. You’ll find a unique event no matter when you visit.
If you’re planning a trip to Florida, Gulf Coast Central vacation rentals are great options that provide a comfortable, safe place to spend a relaxing vacation. Pick a cozy oceanfront rental for easy access to the beach and stunning views or a colorful Florida-style home downtown for your next vacation. Whether you’re coming to relax, enjoy some outdoor activity or taste the local fare you’ll find something new to experience every season of the year here.
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