As you get near to Daytona but before you reach the “Racetrack” there is the biggest Farmers and Flea market for miles on the right. It is all under cover and all aisles have ceiling fans to keep you cool while you shop.

There are numerous aisles with something for everybody. Lots of motor bike gear of course, lovely leather coats, shoes, etc but prices much lower than the tourist areas. We brought lots of t-shirts, towels and items for our villa. We had a hummer car and that was full by the time we came out. There are also lots of places to eat in there and much cheaper than in Daytona.

It was just a short drive to the beach and for $5, you can park your car on the beach all day. The ice cream van goes up and down so there is no need to leave the beach to buy ices for the kids. There are even mini 3- wheel cycles for the kids to hire to use on the beach.

After unpacking all the gear, the kids were off with their boards to the sea. It was a bit rough that day but very warm. After a while, they all seemed to be having so much fun jumping the waves that I  thought I would join them. We were all having so much fun that none of us noticed a huge wave coming at us until it landed on top of us all and we were thrown over.

We came up laughing and then I realised that my cap was not on my head and neither were my prescription sun glasses. !!Now Daytona is a very long beach and we went up and down there looking in the hope that they would have been washed up. No such luck. My advice to anyone going with prescription glass on holiday to Florida is to pack a spare pair or you will be like I was for the last few days………Very short sighted.

Sebastian has one 18-hole golf course, and several more are within a short distance of town.  It is also a favourite location for sky diving.

Route 512, from I-95 to Sebastian, passes through cattle ranches, citrus groves and some of the area’s light industry, giving the motorist a flavour of the diversity of the Sebastian River Area.  Route 512 then continues east across the Indian River to Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, which contains Dodger Town, the former spring home to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park

www.floridastateparks.org/stsebastian

Located to the west side of Sebastian, the St Sebastian River Preserve State Park is a place to see ‘natural Florida’, with open grassy forests of longleaf pine forming a backdrop to cypress domes, scrubby flatwoods, sandhills and a strand swamp.  Over 50 protected species inhabit this area.

There are many miles of trails to be explored on foot, or by bicycle or on horseback, as well as canoeing, boating and fishing on the St Sebastian River.  Launching facilities can be found outside the park, at Dale Wimbrow Park and a canoe launch north of County Road 512.

Park Opening Hours:       8am until sundown 365 days a year.

Visitor Centre Hours:      9.00am – 4.30pm Friday, Saturday & Sunday

Admission Fee:               No entrance fee.

Primitive Camping Fee:   $5.00 per person per night, plus tax.

Driving Directions:

North Entrance (Visitor Centre & Manatee Vista): Exit I-95 at County Road 514 to reach County Road 507.  Entrance is off Babcock Street, just north of the C-54 Canal.

South Entrance: Off Fellsmere Road (County Road 512) 1.8 miles east of I-95.

Address:

1000 Buffer Preserve Drive
Fellsmere, Florida 32948

Phone: 321-953-5005
Fax: 321-953-5006

Sebastian Inlet State Park

www.sebastianinletcam.com

Actually located on S Atlantic Avenue that runs the length of the peninsular from Cape Canaveral, it is actually 3 miles by water, 16 miles by land from Sebastian to Sebastian Inlet State Park.  This park covers 600 acres and spans both sides of Sebastian Inlet.

Sebastian Inlet is one of six inlets that connect the Indian River Lagoon to the Atlantic Ocean.  The Indian River Lagoon actually extends 156 miles over 6 costal counties in all and five state parks.

Sebastian Inlet provides three miles of beautiful beaches to swim, scuba dive, snorkle or just sunbathe.  Sebastian Inlet is also home to Florida east coast’s best saltwater fishing, and where snook, redfish, bluefish, croakers, jacks and tarpon are plentiful (As of 01/08/09, a shoreline fishing permit must be purchased).  The north jetty extends into the Atlantic, whilst the south side has a smaller jetty allowing access to the rocks.  Also on the south side is the ‘cleaning table’ as well as the L-Dock, where anglers cast jigs and bump the bottom to entice the fish.

Many surfing tournaments take place at Sebastian Inlet every year – see website for current dates.  As well as the north jetty and inlet, another popular surfing spot is Monster Hole, which forms long lines of waves, and is located 1/3 mile off the beach, on the south side of Sebastian inlet.

The tidal pool on the north and west of the bridge is a great place for families to bathe.

Sebastian Inlet State Park also has two museums, both open 7 days per week 10am – 4pm:

The McLarty Treasure Museum: Recounting the history of the 1715 Spanish treasure fleet

The Sebastian Fishing Museum: Recounting the history of the area’s fishing industry

The Hammock Trail provides a relaxing mile-long stroll through the park, and there is a marina located one mile north of the Sebastian Inlet bridge, which provides a food concession and a gift shop, open 9.00am – 5.00pm daily.

There is also a boat ramp, picnic areas, camping facilities and a bait and tackle shop (not open Tuesdays & Wednesdays) where fishing licences can be bought.

A concession stand also rents out canoes, kayaks and paddleboats.

Also, take a look at the website to find when concerts are held at the pavilion on Coconut Point, located on the south side of Sebastian Inlet, which overlooks the water, and provides an ideal platform for a musical interlude.

Park Admission Fee:    
$8.00 per vehicle (Limit 2 – 8 people per vehicle). 
$4.00 per single occupant vehicle.
$2.00 pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers.

Camping Fee:        

$28.00 per night, plus tax (includes water & electricity).

Driving Directions:                               

From Indian River County (i.e. South): Exit I-95 at Fellsmere/Sebastian exit, and go east on County Road 512 (towards Sebastian).  Turn right on County Road 510 and intersect with US Highway 1.  Continue over the Indian River, to State Road A1A.  Turn left and head for 7 miles on State Road A1A.

From Brevard County (i.e. North): From I= 95 take the US 192 exit and go east to State Road A1A in Indialantic.  Turn right (south) on State Road A1A and continue for 18 miles.

Address:

9700 South A1A
Melbourne Beach, Florida 32951

Phone: 321-984-4852
Fax: 321-984-4854

Like most resort areas on Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach is blessed with miles of sugar white sand that gently slopes into the warm coastal waters. The Gulf side of the beach is a favourite for just strolling along the water’s edge, picking shells and swimming under lifeguard supervision.

The bay side tends to offer more in water craft activities that include parasailing, and jet ski riding. Here you are also likely to find several boat charters that specialize in deep sea fishing.

There are a couple of small parks in Bradenton Beach, worthy of note only because one, Herb Dolan Park, offers great views across to Sarasota and Tampa Bay whilst the other, Katie Peirola Park, is a great spot for sunsets.

The City Pier has recently reopened following hurricane damage in 2004 and is popular for fishing. It was interesting to hear that when the old wooden bridge connecting Bradenton Beach to the mainland was replaced the island side of the bridge was retained as a fishing pier. Today, after its two million dollar refurbishment the pier is home to a restaurant, tackle shop and restrooms.  Whether you are into fishing or not, this is a lovely spot for a stroll and to watch the catch coming in.

Bridge Street is the historic centre of Bradenton Beach and, as it was directly at the end of the old wooden bridge linking it to the mainland; it became a thriving and prosperous community. When the old bridge was replaced it lost some of its appeal and many businesses closed down. However, today after a major restoration project, Bridge Street has rediscovered its charm and can offer the visitor quaint little shops selling antiques, paintings and a variety other crafts. There are some lovely pavement cafes as well as more up market restaurants and bars.

At the end of the day, if the weather is good, head back to the beach, the pier or Katie Peirola Park, and be prepared to witness a spectacular sunset across the Gulf of Mexico. There is nothing better to lift the soul after an enjoyable day exploring this little piece of paradise in central Florida.

Our aim was to head for Vero Beach and then head off up the coast to Melbourne. so we headed along Highway 60 for the coast. For those of you that like a long straight road in cruise control then you will not be disappointed.

It took us about one and half hours from Haines City before with reached the east coast and Vero Beach.

So we parked the car and headed for the beach where we stumbled across the Driftwood Resort right on the Talnatic coast.

This was a hotel made from Driftwood. so we sat there at the bar looking out at the blue whilst supping and beer and a cocktail. I would recommend eating there and making an afternoon of it.

A very clean and pleasant place to visit.

It was one of those places that we had read about but hadn’t really put at the top of our priority list to visit, but a chance meeting with a couple of Americans while we were waiting for the Illuminations, Reflections of Earth firework display in Epcot  helped us to change our minds.

The two Bradenton residents enthused about Anna Maria Island so vehemently that they persuaded us to take the two hour drive to the south of Tampa Bay the very next day.

This was a world away from the Orlando theme parks and really was a paradise in the sun with just about every conceivable water sport attraction within easy reach. For us, the starting point was a leisurely stroll along the pristine white sands with the occasional paddle in the crystal clear water to cool the feet. The Americans had told us this was once one of Florida’s best kept secrets and it’s not difficult to understand why.

There is a distinctly private feel to the island, almost as if you are invading the space of some of the luxury mansions complete with immaculately manicured lawns that sweep majestically down to the beach.  We were happy to mind our own business and enjoyed a period of quiet solitude amongst the sea turtles and the playful dolphins who, it seemed, were putting on a special performance just for us.

Unfortunately the secret’s well out and although you can still find your own piece of paradise, the island is now a Mecca for day trippers seeking outdoor activities and a popular destination for honeymooners and film crews. 

We certainly found walking to be quite a gentle pursuit and it enabled us to explore not only the shell lined shoreline but also to get close up and personal with a variety of tropical birds and other wildlife, all within the city limits of Anna Maria on the northern most tip of the island.

Of course, there are alternatives. The island runs a free trolley service between the three main towns of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach so it is very easy to get around quickly. More sedate forms of transport include bike rentals which are plentiful, or if you prefer to sightsee from the water, canoes and small charters are readily available.  

We really were impressed with what we had seen and could only thank our American cousins for their recommendation. We will definitely be coming again.

But there are other ‘jewels’ in Florida, and a two centre holiday has become a popular option for visitors. Here are some suggestions why….

Central Florida
The Silver Creek Villas website has a wide choice of privately owned villas, which can be rented directly from the owner. Check with the owner what facilities are nearby - the Disney theme parks will be within a short drive, as will Universal, SeaWorld, water parks, virtually endless shopping, golf, air boat rides, more shopping - and return visits to the parks. Central Florida offers so much - but we must confess that it is possible to finish a vacation in need of a rest. (A tip - remember most vacation homes have their own private pool - allow some relaxation time in between the ‘activity’ days). A two centre holiday is one possible solution - spend a week in the Orlando area, then follow up with a week relaxing in the second centre.

Gulf Coast
A popular option for the second week (or perhaps the third week if it proves possible to stretch your vacation to 3 weeks) is the Gulf Coast. There are other options (a cruise, a Caribbean island, the Atlantic coast, or perhaps the Florida Keys) - but the Gulf Coast has a very real advantage in its location - just 90 minutes drive will bring you to the glorious beaches.

We can recommend the Gulf Coast beaches as a great option for relaxing - but wouldn’t want to give the impression that there is nothing to do in the area. Shopping and golf are still popular options - but there is no need to miss out on the theme parks, as Busch Gardens is relatively close to Tampa Bay. Tampa also brings top level professional sport (Tampa Bay Lightning for ice hockey, the Buccaneers for American Football) - whilst the bay area offers dolphin watching tours, or perhaps a half day cruise on the inland waterways.

Conclusion
Florida is so much more than theme parks. So whilst Disney, Universal and the others are a compelling reason to spend vacation time in Florida, there are plenty more reasons to spend time in ‘The Sunshine State’

We choose a villa a Bradenton, which would be a good base to explore the area. Bradenton was an ideal location to visit not only the numerous beaches around but also Busch Gardens.

A favourite for the whole family was Anna Maria Island.

Driving along the coast road from Bradenton Beach to Holmes Beach and then onto the northern tip was Anna Maria Island.

On arrival at Anna Maria Island we found free car parking just along from the South Pier, across the road was a small shopping mall with restaurants, clothes shops and an Ice Cream Parlour.

We wandered along the pier and found at the end a restaurant, outside seating and people fishing. Our Boys who were 13 and 10 wanted to join in. This was not a problem as the Pier had a bait shop which not only sold bait but hired out fishing rods by the hour. So for a few dollars we had and lovely afternoon with the boys fishing. The adults were happy sitting in the glorious sunshine enjoying a cold drink which were also readily available from the bait shop.

After a couple of hours we decided to visit the Ice Cream Parlour “Two Scoops” to cool down and then make our way back home. The boys loved this unexpected experience that they asked to return the next day.

We decided that we would go to Wal-Mart to purchase rods, which they could keep. New rods in hand we returned to the pier the very next day.

Whilst there we even caught sight of many Dolphins, Sting Rays, Pelicans and various Fish on the end of the rods.

The locals at the bait shop, restaurant and pier were most welcoming, friendly and chatty. We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and plan to return next year. We would recommend a visit along to Anna Maria island whether you want to fish are just laze on the beautiful white sandy beach.

Go left at the roundabout and follow the road to Stump Pass State Park Beach. Park and pay $2 (in honesty box) – spaces are limited to 40 cars. This is the bottom end of Manasota Key where  Lemon Bay meets the Gulf. On this narrow strip you can choose to look out on to the Inter-coastal waterway or walk on the fine sandy beach. Here the beach is quieter and you will find fishermen casting lines into the Gulf. They are often closely watched by local herons that sneak up and pinch the odd fish or two from the bucket – if the fisherman is not looking!

There is a short nature trail at the Pass, signposted with information of what you might see there. Restroom facilities are available. Pets are not allowed on this beach. There is no lifeguard on duty and swimmers will have to beware of the strong currents if they venture out. At the roundabout, if you go right you will be immediately at  Chadwick Park or Englewood Beach (as the locals call it). This is a popular beach with excellent facilities: restrooms with changing areas and showers, covered sitting area, grills, 4 small free picnic shelters, a larger picnic shelter which can be hired for functions, children’s play area, basketball and volleyball courts. Parking is 50 cents an hour (sheriff’s deputies do patrol and have been known to ticket offenders)

There is a long boardwalk across the beach front. The beach is quite large and wide and usually buzzing with activity. There are shops, bars scooter and boat rentals nearby. Pets are not allowed at this beach. Sunset is a very popular time down here as people come to watch the sunset. Its’ not unusual to hear them clap as the sun finally slips from view!

Further up Manasota Key you will come to Blind Pass or  Middle Beach. This is ideal for those who like peace and quiet. You will find a large free car park and playground but you do have to cross the road. Restroom facilities are also available. There is a launch for canoes and kayaks.  The beach is long and quiet. There are shallows ideal for playing. Be aware that there are no lifeguards at this location.

Drive up to the north end of the barrier island and you will find yourself at Manasota Beach. This is a large beach with almost no sandbar. This beach is perfect for a quiet picnic and shelters can be reserved. Amenities include: boardwalk, restrooms, free parking, fishing, boat launch and a lifeguard is on duty all the year round. Pets are not allowed on the beach.

The very first trip we made was on Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise…. You can not miss this one on the dock as it looks just like a real pirate galleon and from the moment you step on board you are immersed in the folklore of a pirate. There is plenty to keep the kids amused with face-painting,water gun fights and tales of pirate adventures and they get very excited on seeing the dolphins leaping along side the boat. Adults are also entertained with free beer,wine and soft drinks but remember go easy on the drinks if you are driving. This is a great way to spend a couple of hours on a hot day and one which we have done more than once.

Our next trip is on the Sea Screamer…A monster power boat which zooms through the waves with a huge wake which attracts the dolphins .This is one trip where you may need to sit tight as it can get a little bouncy on occasions but you cannot beat the exhilaration of the wind  in your  hair  …breathtaking !

If however you are looking for a slightly  more relaxed atmosphere,then try the Dolphin Encounter Sunset Trip ..this was one of our favourites as we cruised the bay and toasted the sunset with a glass of fizzy stuff !  We took some great photos of the sunset from the upper deck.This trip and the Sea Screamer guarantee you dolphin sightings or you get another trip free.

Finally our latest excursion was on Little Toot a forty foot tugboat.We had an amazing encounter with a mother and baby dolphin and a protective show of dolphin displeasure.Little Toot has a shallow draft and so can go closer in to the shore allowing it to cruise past the beautiful homes of the rich and famous of Clearwater Bay.

All that sailing makes you hungry and just the excuse that you need to round the day off with a delicious meal of fish and chips at Britt’s restaurant……..Great!

There are lots of places to stay on the island if you decide to extend your trip from hotels and motels to villas and apartments many offering the all important ocean view.

The beach here is beautiful, very safe for small children and you can walk for miles.  The clean, soft, powdery sand reminds us of the Caribbean.

Our favourite restaurant is the 4* Sandbar and you can park here and walk straight on to the beach. This is on the north side of the island on a stunning beach. The Sandbar serves a wide selection of food from snacks to gourmet with local musicians providing relaxing entertainment (usually starting about 6pm) There is a good sized bar area where you can sip a cocktail whilst waiting for your table and you can choose to dine inside or outside on the terrace. With the view of the ocean and the brilliant blue sky it’s not surprising the terrace is the most popular choice!

Here are the directions

Take I4 west to Tampa

45 miles on take exit 9 to I75 – Naples/Ocala – keep left for Naples

32 miles on take exit 228 I275 to St Petersburg

Exit 2 to US41/Palmetto/Bradenton

Keep left at the fork and follow signs US41 Palmetto/Bradenton

Turn left at US41 South

7 miles on turn right at Manatee Drive signposted to Anna Maria Island

8 miles turn right at traffic lights onto Gulf Drive (Bank on corner)

Slight left to stay on Gulf Drive North (this runs parallel with the ocean) Sandbar sign posts are on here too.

Turn left at Spring Avenue and the car park is on the left. NB this car park is for patrons of the restaurant only so you won’t be able to stay there if you decide not to eat at the Sandbar.

The food at the Sandbar is mouth-wateringly delicious! The menu is extensive from fabulous fish dishes to club sandwiches and burgers hence catering to most tastes including children.

I enjoyed a lunch of Cajun Shrimp $14.99 (Sautéed shrimp seasoned with cajun spices, onions and peppers, served over rice) and my husband had Seafood Mar Vista $14.99 (Sautéed shrimp, scallops, and fresh fish with garlic herb butter, white wine, mushrooms and artichoke hearts served over linguine). For dessert we had Sinner’s Delight $5.99 Fudge brownie topped with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, walnuts, and a cherry.

So if you fancy a change from theme parks and shopping head of to Anna Maria Island for a real treat!