[HappyRetired]

I visited Kapok Tree on my first visit to Florida right after college. It was a really nice place. Couldn't locate it 15 years later on my second visit. Sorry to learn of it's demise. It was a place I thought I'd like to revisit.

[Villagerjjm]

Originally Posted by Troopie

If you could go to a "fun" beach that is within a two-hour drive of The Villages, where would you go?
My cousin will be visiting in a few weeks and I'd like to take her to a beach for the day. I'm not familiar with any of the beaches in Florida -- I don't want a rural/quiet beach -- am looking for a beach that has a lot of fun options such as tourist shopping, music and restaurants. I searched the forums, but didn't find exactly what I'm looking for. I'd really appreciate suggestions. Thanks in advance!

Look at Lido beach on Lido Key. St. Armand's Circle is within walking distance.
A bit longer ride than what you planned on?? Try Coquina beach....
Honeymoon Island is close to Dunedin and shopping.

[donassaid]

Siesta Key Beach, voted best beach in America (Sarasota)

[Troopie]

In light of the COVID uptick, I doubt we'll end up doing this, after all. But, I really appreciate all of these replies. It gives me something to go on for the future. My cousin comes from a very small, rural town in Nebraska. Going to the beach would be a real treat for her. Thank you!!!

[Troopie]

Thank you! This is particularly helpful.

[Guitarman1951]

Originally Posted by Troopie

If you could go to a "fun" beach that is within a two-hour drive of The Villages, where would you go?
My cousin will be visiting in a few weeks and I'd like to take her to a beach for the day. I'm not familiar with any of the beaches in Florida -- I don't want a rural/quiet beach -- am looking for a beach that has a lot of fun options such as tourist shopping, music and restaurants. I searched the forums, but didn't find exactly what I'm looking for. I'd really appreciate suggestions. Thanks in advance!

With the virus running rampant, you'd be better off at a quiet beach with less people.

[vitacr]

Definitely agree, hard to beat, & easy to get to 441 - 42 - 44.

[Baywayric]

Four winners, by distance:
1. Clearwater Beach Pier 60
2. Sunset Beach @ Treasure Island
3. Pass-A-Grille @ St. Pete Beach
4. Bradenton Beach

[IllinoisX1]

was there a few weeks ago people were distancing free parking great place

[Shamp]

IN THESE TIMES I WOULDN'T BE LOOKING FOR 'LIVELY.' Daytona effective sunday requires a mask in public if you aren't 6 feet apart if that offers you comfort. When I'm not in TVS I'm in New Smyrna Beach. Much more upscale than Daytona, which in my opinion is sleazy. NSB is clean, upscale and has great restaurants and eclectic shops and isn exactly 2 hrs away.

[kwachowski]

Daytona or New Symrna

[allenbccs]

Honeymoon Beach on golf side

[sloanst]

Not worth the risk.

[PompeyKing]

Originally Posted by asiebel

Maderia Beach is close to St Johns Pass for shopping and esting. Lots of restaurants. You should spend the night! Just google all the different places!

I agree. Maderia Beach between Clearwater and John’s Pass. And look for 18 On The Rocks! Best peal and eat shrimp I’ve ever had.

[mollyb]

St Augustine!!