[cb1972]

Kids and Grand Kids coming next week. Any suggestions on nice beaches on the Gulf side within an hour or hour and a half . Would like to go on a day beach trip .

[Madelaine Amee]

We wintered on the Gulf for over 10 yrs, we had a place at Redington Shores. You can find beautiful beaches from Clearwater on down to St. John's. I think they advertise 39 miles of white sandy beaches, and it is.

Right now high season and you will be in the thick of it. Best beaches for grandchildren would be Clearwater.

[Polar Bear]

Closer to two hours, but Clearwater Beach is hard to beat.

[xkeowner]

We have enjoyed this park and there is plenty of parking right there. I believe it was $5 for all day but may have it confused with another place. Also, many good restaurants nearby.

[spk7951]

We have been to Fort Island Gulf Beach in Crystal River a number of times.

[JoMar]

Howard Park Beach at Tarpon Springs......good places to eat and lots of sponges downtown

[Mudder]

Agree with JoMar. You can also go on a sponge diving boat in town of Tarpon Springs.

[My Daily Run]

John's Pass...lots of restaurant, shops and entertainment

[aninjamom]

Treasure Island, near Tampa. Very nice area, and lots to do nearby.

[Bogie Shooter]

Originally Posted by aninjamom

Treasure Island, near Tampa. Very nice area, and lots to do nearby.

Isn’t that near St Petersburg?

[Bill32]

We like Anna Maria Island, by Bradenton. 21/2 hrs, plenty of restaurants beautiful beaches. Try to go during the week it will be very busy but a little better than the weekends...

[cb1972]

wow, thanks for all the replies lots to choose from

[JohnN]

probably too late, but a great trip is going to Fort Desoto and exploring the fort there, plenty of beach and seabirds too. If you're in the mood for more, take the ferry out to Egmont Key (15 minute ride) and you can see the protected Gopher Tortoises in the wild, plus the fort there is like a small city. Kids love it.
Note though, no restroom facilities on the key!!!! It's au natural.