img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:66.666666666667%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}Where to go in Florida — that’s always a tough one to answer.
There’s an array of options ranging from fun-filled theme parks and paradise beach towns hugging both the Gulf and Atlantic’s vibrant waters.
If there’s one spot we particularly love here at Travel Off Path, it’s Southwest Florida in general, and we’re certainly not in an exclusive club by saying so.
Home to top-notch vacations spots such as renowned Clearwater and Siesta Key, plus numerous lesser-known islands and overlooked small towns with gleaming white sand, flying into one of the region’s 4 airports provides easy access to coastal hideaways you didn’t know were calling you all year-round.
One such place was just highlighted as Florida’s ultimate crowd-free getaway, boasting white-sand shores, stunning islands, and an virtually unknown town next door that’s aiming to become the Sunshine State’s new tourism hotspot.
Welcome To Bradenton! Discover Coastal Charm & Pristine Coastline
If thought places like Miami and Cancun were the only worthy beach locales to book an unforgettable vacation, there’s no better example than Bradenton.
While often overshadowed by the tourist magnet status of nearby Clearwater and Siesta Key, Bradenton sits fat and happy along prime real estate with far less city bustle and footprints in the sand.
Offering practically no tall buildings to block your view or ruin your Zen as an eyesore to what feels like untouched nature, this little-known Gulfside town is one of Florida’s most inviting getaways with friendly, laid-back locals and pristine coastline a far cry from more popular action-packed destinations.
If you ask us, there’s no better spot in town than Bradenton Beach, boasting seemingly endless white sand shoreline along a sprawling barrier island.
Home to low-key bars to sip a fruity cocktail or slurp freshly caught oysters, along with family fun like The Fish Hole Miniature Golf, it’s truly one of Florida’s most underrated beach towns, especially as pretty and uncrowded it is.
If there’s one spot you shouldn’t skip it’s Cortez Fishing Village. Located on the flip-side of the bridge from Bradenton Beach, experience a charming coastal community where Old Florida still feels alive.
Anna Maria Island Is A Destination Unto Itself
Technically, Bradenton Beach is a town on Anna Maria Island, but if you go to the tiptop of said island, you’ll discover a whole different vibe.
Anna Maria can pack up like a crazy ex during summer (believe me, I know), but right now through winter makes for a great time to avoid crowds in your own slice of paradise — and hopefully no crazy ex stalks you up this way.
Throughout the Bradenton area, you can expect sunny temps hovering around 80 degrees until you scarf down an obligatory Thanksgiving turkey, and even then, temps are still pleasant through the rest of the holidays.
Though Holmes Beach is more popular, the north side of the island’s Bean Point Beach holds rave reviews for its with one recent skeptic visitor claiming, “So, we aren’t beach people but this place was amazing. The sand was so soft and clean”.
Like Bradenton Beach, there’s a few options to devour locally-sourced seafood and there’s even a cozy resort tucked away from the action, The Rod and Reel Resort.
Keep An Eye On Palmetto – Florida’s Next Hotspot?
Ever heard of Palmetto? Chances are you haven’t but town officials are hoping that changes over the next few years as they heavily invest in a tourism boost.
As much of Southwest Florida is easily recognizable — Clearwater, Siesta Key, Tampa, St. Pete, and the likes — Palmetto is hoping to earn a seat at the table.
Located directly across the Manatee River from Bradenton proper, Palmetto, for now, is a waterfront suburb passed by for oceanside vacations.
As Palmetto starts out trying to lure locals from nearby towns with more sporting events, they’ve also forked over millions and millions into a new convention center, hoping to host big-name events to draw outsiders that wouldn’t typically have Palmetto on their Bingo card.
As such, a water ferry is in the works to ease accessibility. They’re already equipped with lush parks and name-brand stays, including surprisingly luxurious offerings like 5-star Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa overlooking the river with distant coastal views.
Sam SearsSam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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