We went to Sanibel Island last year and had a great time. It was very relaxing and our son had a blast finding shells. Plus, we didn't have any problems with jellyfish. I think we saw one and it was dead on the shore. Last year we flew but this year we are going to drive to Florida and going all the way back to Sanibel Island would be a very LOOOONG drive with 3 young kids. I know that a lot of people go to Destin but I've heard that there are lots of jellyfish in that area and that scares me to death! So, here's my question. Is there another area in Florida with great beaches, no/few jellyfish that won't take us forever to drive to? Also, if you have advice on accomodations, that would be great, too. My husband is looking for places to stay on Sanibel Island so I need advice ASAP before he books something. Thanks!!
After living on the west coast of FL for several years, I can tell you clearwater, St Pete, down to Sarasota and all the way down to Sanibel is great. My personal favorite is Siesta Key in Sarasota, its BEAUTIFUL! I'm going there in March, can't wait!! My grandma lives on the east coast, I remember jelly fish over there on the atlantic, but I don't ever remember jelly fish on the Gulf. Have fun!
I'm from the Destin area, and like leigh said. Jellyfish are seasonal. You could go the same time every year, and one year tons of jellyfish, and another no or few jellyfish. It's just one of those things that happen when you vacation near the ocean. It takes us about 16 hours to drive from abilene to fl. I also have 3 kids.. just make all your stops count. Good luck!
I'm not sure where Sanibel Island is but every year we go to Clearwater Beach. We always rent a house right on Clearwater through VRBO. We also rented a condo on Clearwater that was really nice. I don't know exactly what you are looking for but it has nice calm waters, a boardwalk, quaint shops and great resteraunts. If you decide to go to Clearwater and have any questions please feel free to email me. Also I heard that St. Petersburg is amazing.
We went to Gulf Shores, AL late Augusst - it was great b/c it was near deserted!! School there had started, and it was considered late summer/early fall (it was 90 every day). We had one day of jellyfish - then the wind changed - the water was perfect from then on out - barely any fish to be seen either.
We did catch lots of crabs when the jellyfish were around too - but just that one day.
I just have to second Gulf Shores, AL. We went there when I was 11 and it is one of my best vacation memories ever! I will definitely take my kids there when they are a little older.
I have gone to Clearwater alot and don't recall there being many jellyfish, it is a beautiful beach. Been to Panama City once before too and don't remember many then either.
We go to the Hilton Golf and Spa Resort yearly in SanDestin (Destin burb) and have not seen many there. We did go to an area where boats were heading out on fishing tours, etc and we did see a lot there.
Last year when we were at Destin it was right around the time hurricane Eduardo turned away from FL. THe surf was really rough and high and most of the time we were there, the water was closed to the public. It was amazing to watch.
A lot of people did not abide by the closing rule set up and we did see people being ticketed.
The day we checked in, a woman from our hotel had drowned and by the time we left about 4 days later, we had heard of 4 more drownings in the immediate area.
SO...if you love the water that might be an issue. We love the beach but swim in the pools.
Our favorite US beach is South Beach in Miami but that is NOT family friendly. I go once or twice a year and LOVE it but I won't take my 14 yr old there..... I am one of the more open minded people on this site so take that for what it is worth!!
Your question was specific to Florida, but have you considered Gulf Shores, Alabama? We love going to the beach there and I haven't seen a single jelly fish. We usually travel in July.
My family and I have gone to Panama City Beach FL for the past five years. I think that we've may be seen two jellyfish the entire time. We rent a condo for a week from Mary at this address: http://www.beachtravelgetaways.com/ I hope this helps!
I've never had any problems with jelly fish at Fort Walton Beach - they seem to be something that comes in waves, and I've just never been there when it was a problem.
I was born and raised in Florida. Jellyfish are seasonal. If I am remembering correctly, they are at their peak in June - but I am sure you could research this and find info on the web.
Oh, and pack some "meat tenderizer". If you do get stung by a jellyfish, put meat tenderizer on it. you will be amazed at how much better the spot will feel.
