Florida Getaways Snowbirds may come to Florida to get away from the cold but Central Floridians can also enjoy some sun, sand, and sea during their winter vacation. By Tarre Beach
Even though neither snow nor sleet bother us here in the Sunshine State, sometimes it’s nice to take a break for a little rest and relaxation during the winter months. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious vacation, spa retreat, awardwinning golf getaway or just a casual family poolside weekend, check out these locations for a lovely in-state holiday.
Family Fun
Pet Paradise
Sarasota Surf and Racquet Club 5900 Midnight Pass Road Sarasota, FL 34242 (800) 237-5671 www.sarasotasurf.com
Tradewinds Island Resorts on St. Pete Beach 5500 & 6000 Gulf Boulevard St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 (800) 360-4016 www.tradewindsresort.com
If you want a low-key family Gulf vacation, you can’t go wrong with Sarasota Surf and Racquet Club. Enjoy a fun winter break in any of the club’s privately owned spacious one- and two-bedroom units. You can frolic in one of the two heated pools, pick up the fun sport of pickleball or tennis and still get a good workout in at the fitness center. Get your barbeque on and grill up your favorite meal at the beachside or poolside grills. Beach canopies and umbrellas are available to rent so you can relax in the shade. Take your pick of units from the cozy Tennis Court Villas to the 12 stories of Gulf views at Tower Building. Fully equipped kitchenettes and screened-in lanais will make your visit spectacular. Save 20% if you book now for a stay from January 3-31, 2022. Check out availability. You don’t want to miss out.
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Central Florida Lifestyle | January 2022
Including Rover in your vacay is easy when you visit St. Pete Beach. With 48 pet-friendly suites, a Pet Play Zone and doggie drinking fountains, you and your furry family member will receive the best in hospitality at Tradewinds Island Grand. At RumFish Beach Resort, right next door, you can also receive room service for your cuddly buddy at any of the 10 petfriendly suites. Fort De Soto Park Campground is just a 15-minute drive from the resorts and although the 1,136-acre county park is not an off-leash dog park, it does welcome six-foot-leashed canines. For your doggie’s delight there is Paw Playground also known as Fort De Soto Dog Park and Beach, St. Pete’s best dog-friendly beach. Here four-legged beachgoers can catch some waves in a specially fenced-in doggie beach area.
