With quaint seaside towns, stunning white-sand beaches, and tons of fun attractions and activities, families are sure to have a wonderful time in Florida’s Gulf Coast region. In addition to fantastic activities and perfect weather year-round, visitors will enjoy extra privacy, space and freedom when staying in one of the many Gulf Coast South vacation rentals. Book in advance and give your family a vacation to look forward to!
Climate
Tourists vacationing in Gulf Coast South vacation rentals should be prepared for hot, humid weather. Like many parts of Florida, summers here are long and afternoon thunderstorms are common. Winters are a great time to visit the area as temperatures are very comfortable and mild during these months. When planning your travel, keep in mind that the Gulf is susceptible to hurricanes and floods during hurricane season (officially from June to November).
Transit
Visitors will be interested to learn about the best way to get around the area after leaving their Gulf Coast South vacation rentals. Vacationers have easy access to car and bike rentals, which make getting around beach towns much more convenient. A ferry service is offered for those staying in the Florida Keys. Key West also provides a Park ‘n Ride service for those exploring the downtown area.
Things to Do
The beach is the main draw, and there are hundreds of family-friendly, white-sand beaches to choose from in the area. Gulf Islands National Seashore is a 150-mile stretch of beach with beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters. It runs from Florida’s Santa Rosa Island to Cat Island in Mississippi. Bahia Honda State Park is just thirty miles from Key West and has been consistently rated as one of the top ten beaches in the country. Another excellent option is Dry Tortugas National Park, which is an isolated 100 square mile park only accessible by seaplane or boat. It’s known for picturesque scenery, ample wildlife, and beautiful coral reefs.
A trip to Florida’s Gulf Coast wouldn’t be complete without a fishing or water sports adventure. The Gulf Coast is a fisherman’s dream with excellent deep-sea fishing and many fishing charters available to rent from local companies, like Dreamlander Tours. Water sports like diving, surfing, and snorkeling are also great ways to spend your vacation in the Florida Gulf.
For organized fun, cruise beside dolphins and go on a shelling adventure with Good Time Charters and Tours. Kids will love seeing these mammals up-close-and-personal. The Conch Tour Train in Key West is another favorite among families. This 90-minute tour takes visitors through Old Town Key West and points out many local landmarks and attractions. In Everglades City, board an airboat and enjoy a ride through the Everglades Grassland. See wild alligators and birds on the tour, or see panthers, tigers, turtles, and more at Wooten’s Animal Sanctuary & Alligator Park.
Food & Dining
During a trip to Florida’s Gulf Coast South, you’ll want to taste all of the best food from the region. The area prides itself on its fresh seafood and is home to some of the best in the world. Try the freshly caught stone crab or luscious lobster rolls at the Eaton Street Seafood Market in Key West. For dessert, enjoy a piece of Key lime pie from Key West Key Lime Pie Co. Other major Gulf exports include oranges, avocados, and spiny lobsters.
Events
Visitors staying in Gulf Coast South vacation rentals will want to know about some of the area’s best festivals when planning a vacation. Here are a few favorites among locals and tourists:
- The Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival (November): Happening in downtown Pensacola, this three-day celebration of the arts is one of the biggest annual festivals in the Florida Gulf region.
- The Florida Seafood Festival (October): A must for seafood lovers, the Florida Seafood Festival features an oyster-shucking and eating contest, blue crab races, and other seafood-themed events.
Florida’s Gulf Coast area has a variety of activities to choose from, and Gulf Coast South vacation rentals provide the perfect oasis at the end of a day of family fun. From relaxing with a good book on one of the pristine beaches to catching your dinner straight from the Gulf waters, the possibilities are endless.
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