Map Of Florida On The Gulf Side
Introduction
Located in the southeastern region of the United States, Florida is a popular tourist destination for its sandy beaches, sunny weather, and exciting attractions. The Gulf side of Florida is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, making it a top spot for beach lovers. In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, eat, and stay on the Gulf Side of Florida.
Top Attractions
Beaches
The Gulf Side of Florida boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Clearwater Beach, Siesta Key Beach, and St. Pete Beach are some of the top beaches that offer white sand, crystal clear water, and plenty of activities like parasailing, kayaking, and jet skiing.
Historical Landmarks
Florida has a rich history, and the Gulf Side is home to many historical landmarks. The Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, Fort Myers Historic District, and the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers are some of the top places to visit to learn about Florida’s history.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, head to Cedar Key, a small island town that offers a glimpse into old Florida. The town has a quaint downtown area with local shops and restaurants, and it’s known for its fresh seafood. Another hidden gem is the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, where you can learn about the history of sponge diving and enjoy delicious Greek food.
Food Scene
The Gulf Side of Florida is known for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants that offer delicious seafood dishes. The Fish House in Pensacola, The Lobster Pot in Siesta Key, and The Oyster Bar in Sarasota are some of the top seafood restaurants in the area. If you’re looking for something different, head to Yoder’s Amish Kitchen in Sarasota for some traditional Amish food.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? The Gulf Side of Florida offers plenty of free activities like hiking in the Everglades, visiting the Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach, and exploring the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota on Mondays when admission is free. You can also save money by booking hotels and flights in advance and by eating at local restaurants instead of tourist hotspots.
Outdoor Adventures
The Gulf Side of Florida is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go kayaking in the mangroves, hiking in the Everglades, fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, or biking on the Pinellas Trail. There are also plenty of guided tours available, such as snorkeling tours and dolphin watching tours.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family-friendly activities on the Gulf Side of Florida. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to see Winter the Dolphin, explore the Children’s Museum of Tampa, or take a pirate cruise in Sarasota Bay. You can also visit the Florida Aquarium in Tampa or the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota to see marine animals up close.
Natural Wonders
The Gulf Side of Florida is home to many natural wonders. Take a trip to the Everglades National Park to see alligators, panthers, and other wildlife. You can also visit the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to swim with manatees or head to the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park to see endangered species like the Florida panther.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Gulf Side of Florida has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Visit the Ybor City neighborhood in Tampa for a lively nightlife experience or head to downtown St. Petersburg for craft cocktails and live music. You can also visit the Beach House Restaurant in Bradenton Beach for live music on the beach.
Local Markets
Experience the local culture by visiting the many markets on the Gulf Side of Florida. The St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market is a popular spot for fresh produce, local crafts, and live music. The Sarasota Farmers Market and the Hyde Park Village Fresh Market are also great places to sample local food and buy unique souvenirs.
Beaches and Mountains
The Gulf Side of Florida is mostly flat, so there are no mountains to climb. However, the area is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and you can spend your days soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal clear water.
Cultural Immersion
Experience the local culture by visiting the many museums and art galleries on the Gulf Side of Florida. The Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota is home to an impressive collection of European art, while the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg showcases the works of Salvador Dali. The Tampa Museum of Art and the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg are also great places to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Art and Music Scene
The Gulf Side of Florida has a thriving art and music scene. Visit the Sarasota Opera House or the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa for a night of opera or ballet. You can also catch a concert at the Amalie Arena in Tampa or the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. If you’re looking for something more laid back, head to the Blue Rooster in Sarasota for live blues music.
Walking Tours
Explore the Gulf Side of Florida on foot by taking a walking tour. The St. Petersburg Preservation walking tour takes you through the city’s history, while the Sarasota Architectural Foundation walking tour showcases the city’s unique architecture. You can also take a Ghost Tour of Tampa or a Food Tour of St. Petersburg to learn about the local cuisine.
Historical Sites
The Gulf Side of Florida is home to many historical sites. Visit the Spanish Fort in Pensacola, the De Soto National Memorial in Bradenton, or the Gamble Plantation Historic State Park in Ellenton to learn about Florida’s history. You can also visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers to see the homes of two of America’s greatest inventors.
Biking Routes
The Gulf Side of Florida has plenty of scenic biking routes. The Pinellas Trail is a 47-mile trail that runs from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg and offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico. The Legacy Trail in Sarasota is another popular biking route that takes you through scenic wetlands and forests.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, the Gulf Side of Florida has plenty of options. The Safety Harbor Resort and Spa in Clearwater offers a wide range of spa treatments, while the Life Enrichment Center in Fruitland Park offers yoga and meditation classes. The Naples Grande Beach Resort in Naples is also a great option for a relaxing getaway.
Adventure Sports
The Gulf Side of Florida is a great place for adventure sports like parasailing, kayaking, and jet skiing. You can also go skydiving in Zephyrhills or take a hot air balloon ride in Lakeland. If you’re feeling daring, head to the Shark Valley Observation Tower in the Everglades for a thrilling airboat ride.
Conclusion
The Gulf Side of Florida is a beautiful and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, the Gulf Side of Florida has it all. Use this travel guide to plan your next trip and experience all that the Gulf Side of Florida has to offer.