By Mona Harte
Southwest Florida is renowned for its white sand
beaches and teal colored waters. Situated on the Gulf of
Mexico, it offers balmy breezes, great fishing and tons of fun for all. Unlike places like
Orlando or South
beach, the region thrives on a laid-back attitude.
Tampa
The largest city on the Gulf, Tampa offers major league sport teams like the Devil Rays (baseball) and the Buccaneers (football). Every winter it holds the Gasparilla Pirate Extravaganza in celebration of fictional pirate Juan Gasparilla.
St. Petersburg
Known as "St. Pete," it is a short drive across the Sunshine Skyway Bridge from Tampa. The St. Pete Pier is a popular destination for shopping and eating. Also, the world's largest collection of Salvador Dali artworks can be found at the Dali Museum.
Bradenton
Home of Tropicana Orange Juice, Bradenton is in Manatee County. Anna Maria Island is a barrier island off the Gulf and a beach favorite with locals.
Sarasota
Unique museums can be found in the city and county. Favorites include: Old Spanish Pointe (Osprey), G. Wiz Science Museum and the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Touring the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is further enhanced by also visiting their former estate called Ca d'Zan.
Fort Myers
Both the Minnesota Twins and the Boston Red Sox call Ft. Myers home for spring training. The winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford offer interesting tours year-round.
Naples
Stop by the Naples Pier around 7:00 PM every evening and watch the dolphins play. Day trips to the Everglades and Marco Island are easy to arrange.
Special SW Florida Moments
Finding shark's teeth on Venice Beach (Sarasota County). Tarpon fishing in Boca Grande (Charlotte and Lee Counties). Kayaking around mangroves (entire region).
About the Author:
Since 1993 Mona Harte's work has appeared in various publications, including "NYTimes Regional Newspaper Group," the "Calgary Sun," the "Great Falls Tribune" and the "Tahoe Daily Dispatch," as well as international magazines "Atlantica," "Portfolio," and "Open Skies." She holds an Associate of Arts in layout/design from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.
