Relocation Guide SARASOTA & MANATEE COUNTIES
TABLE OF CONTENTS About William Raveis .................................................
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Welcome to the Suncoast ........................................
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Siesta Key ........................................................................
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Lakewood Ranch ..........................................................
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Longboat Key ................................................................
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Venice .............................................................................
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Suncoast Communities .............................................
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Suncoast Beaches .......................................................
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Eat & Drink ......................................................................
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Dining Recommendations ........................................
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Arts & Culture ................................................................
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Shopping .........................................................................
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Golf ....................................................................................
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Sarasota County Schools ..........................................
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Accolades ........................................................................
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About William Raveis William Raveis, the number one privately owned real estate brokerage in Florida, South Carolina and the Northeast providing integrated real estate services to customers for 50 years has been selected Top Brokerage by Inman, a national real estate news source. The company consistently ranks among top independent and publicly traded brokerages for sales volume and units sold by RealTrends. In addition to the Residential, Relocation, and Luxury Properties divisions, William Raveis has full-service Mortgage, Insurance and Title Companies; thereby streamlining the customer experience under one roof.
As the #1 Family-owned real estate company in Florida, South Carolina and the Northeast, nobody connects luxury home buyers from the Northeast to Florida like William Raveis Real Estate.
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Welcome To The Suncoast SARASOTA | VENICE | LAKEWOOD RANCH | BRADENTON
The city of Sarasota is bordered by Sarasota Bay and beautiful barrier islands spanning nearly 40 miles, including nationally acclaimed Siesta Key. After making a name for itself as a beloved vacation destination, Sarasota and the surrounding areas, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, have each quickly become a relocation hot spot for retirees and young families alike. With year-round sunshine, the world’s best beaches, and plenty of things to see and do, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better Florida location to call home. The local communities offer an abundance of amenities for every walk of life: exemplary schools, dining, shopping, outdoor activities and arts and culture. Whether you are an avid golfer, a die-hard beachgoer, or simply just love the relaxed coastal lifestyle, you will easily fall in love with the Suncoast and its wide selection of dining, shopping, and living options. Use this guide to find recommendation’s for the area’s best neighborhoods and insight to help you find your piece of paradise.
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Siesta Key Siesta Key is a nationally acclaimed barrier island just off the Sarasota mainland. Once you cross either the northern or southern bridge, you will find multiple beaches showcasing roughly 40 acres of shoreline. Siesta Key is famous for its quartz sand, which never gets uncomfortably hot, even on the warmest days of the year. In addition to the beach, people flock to Siesta Key Village, which features restaurants, shopping and local watering holes. Siesta Key isn’t just a vacation destination; there are many locals that call Siesta Key home. The key boasts family friendly neighborhoods including the Sanderling Club and Riegels Landing. There is also an abundance of condominiums, offering highly sought after amenities such as private beach access and personal boating docks. While life on Siesta Key is laid-back and casual, you can explore the area’s cultural scene or enjoy fine dining with Sarasota’s downtown just a quick jaunt over the bridge.
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Lakewood Ranch Lakewood Ranch is the epitome of suburban living, located just a short drive from local beaches, east of I-75. Spanning 50 square miles, this community offers all of the amenities you could ask for: downtown shopping, dining, arts, entertainment and more. Boasting more than two dozen villages for all walks of life, you will find a variety of lifestyles ranging from community club, to 55-plus communities. Lakewood Ranch is home to top-rated schools, country clubs, community centers, and an internationally recognized polo club. Downtown Lakewood Ranch is a hub for local events and night life, with weekly farmers markets and other gatherings to support local businesses. Lakewood Ranch is proud to have ranked as the #2 best-selling community in the United States in 2021, as new construction homes continue to thrive here.
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Longboat Key Longboat Key is a gorgeous off-shore barrier island that runs north to south of Sarasota Bay along the western shore, with powdery sand on its stunning, quiet beaches. St. Armands and Lido Key are located just south of Longboat Key, a quick drive over the John Ringling Bridge from downtown Sarasota. Longboat Key is the ideal destination for golf lovers, retirees and empty nesters looking for a quiet and relaxed pace of life. Many of the homes here are beach or
waterfront
condos,
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several exclusive members-only golf communities. Homes adorning the central Gulf of Mexico Drive boast stunning waterfront views.
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Venice Downtown Venice dates back to the 1920s and captures the charm of old Florida, with its moss-covered oaks and swaying palms lining the avenues. Venice’s unique location combines a vibrant downtown experience with parks, green spaces and beaches. Enjoy historical walking tours, explore the growing art district, take a selfie by one of the many public artworks, or visit Venice Theatre for musicals, dramas, and comedies. Venice is also well-equipped with tennis, pickleball, basketball, and shuffle board courts. Charter a boat to catch a big one or drop a line off of Venice’s 700-foot long fishing pier or at the South Jetty, which extends several hundred yards into the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy the water while kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, or parasailing. Go horseback riding at Deer Prairie Creek Preserve or watch a horse show jumping competition at the nationally recognized Fox Lea Farm. Enjoy croquet tournaments held by the Sarasota County Croquet Club or, even join in the fun on Sunday Fundays!
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COMMUNITIES ON THE SUNCOAST
West Of The Trail West of the Trail is west of U.S. 41 in Sarasota. This historical district boasts many beautiful homes. Neighborhoods include the exclusive Harbor Acres, Oyster Bay, Cherokee Park and Coral Cove.
Palmer Ranch
Palmer Ranch is a golf course community located in South Sarasota comprised of nine neighborhoods, most of which are gated. They include Huntington Pointe, Turtle Rock, and Prestancia.
Gulf Gate Gulf Gate is a vibrant community in South Sarasota best known for its mid-century-modern style of homes and central location. Gulf Gate is a prime spot for anyone with an eye for architecture.
Bradenton
Bradenton is located just north of Sarasota and stretches along the Manatee River. West Bradenton is popular because of its proximity to the beach. East Bradenton is home to a number of more recent neighborhoods, including the Lakewood Ranch golf community.
Casey Key Casey Key is a barrier island in Nokomis, just south of Sarasota. Almost all homes are waterfront, with gorgeous views and privacy. Pictured on the right is a home on Casey Key.
Osprey Osprey is a community south of Sarasota. It’s a quiet easy-going destination with broad tree-lined streets and ocean views. You’ll find everything from luxury waterfront homes to condos and affordable single family homes.
Venice Venice is a waterfront community south of Sarasota. The city boasts 14 miles of beaches, making it a picturesque destination for sun-seekers and beachgoers. Its quaint and charming downtown affords a relaxed feel. 13
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BEACHES ON THE SUNCOAST
Siesta Key Siesta Key is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the world, and the title is well earned. Enjoy the cool, quartz sand and crystal-clear ocean here. South of Siesta Key Beach is Crescent Beach and Turtle Beach, perfect for more relaxed and less-crowded beach days.
Lido Key Nestled between Longboat Key and Siesta Key, Lido Key is home to three beaches: North Lido, Lido Beach, and South Lido. The shoreline here is the perfect spot for boaters to anchor close and enjoy some rays of sunshine.
Longboat Key Longboat Key Beach boasts 12 miles of pristine shoreline. During the summer months, this stretch of sand is frequented by sea turtles that lay their nests here. A quiet and relaxing place to enjoy epic views of the Gulf Coast of Mexico, you can expect less disturbances here and a true “beach day.”
Manasota Key With four beaches, Manasota Key, located far south of Sarasota, is one of the most under rated beach destinations. Manasota Beach, Blind Pass, Englewood Beach and Stump Pass are all natural beauties. Blind Pass Beach stretches 60 acres of untouched beachfront, while Englewood Beach features BBQs, picnic tables and pavilions.
Casey Key
Casey Key’s southern tip is a paradisiac destination for visitors. Enjoy the picnic areas, concessions, lifeguards and more at an 18-acre park boasting perfect beach views. Nearby Nokomis Beach is renowned as Sarasota County’s oldest public beach.
Caspersen Beach
Located in Venice, Florida, Caspersen Beach offers long boardwalks that open up to quiet stretches of sand, perfect for bird watching and nature lovers. Nearby, Brohard Paw Park is the only dog-friendly beach in the county.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach in Florida is renowned for its pristine, white-sand shoreline and clear turquoise waters. Offering a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls and beach combing, the beach is also known for its stunning fossilized shark teeth that can be found along the shoreline, attracting collectors and enthusiasts from far and wide.
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Local Experts The William Raveis luxury network is unique. Every day, we connect buyers and sellers from Florida, South Carolina and the Northeast and back. Our extraordinary team ensures a seamless luxury experience. From beach to bay and every golf green and fairway. Whether for a week, a few months or to start your forever stay.
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Eat & Drink
Sarasota is quickly becoming a sensational destination for the food and wine scene. Take your pick from a wide variety of award-winning local dining options such as Michael’s on East, Boca, or Duval’s Fresh Local Seafood. There are plenty of new and trendy spots to try out. If you like Asian Cuisine with a modern twist, give Kojo a try. If Tex-Mex is more your taste, Circo SRQ is a must. Whatever your dining preference, there are a multitude of options to choose from.
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One of the best things about Sarasota’s restaurants is the variety of atmospheres. Choose from al fresco dining with live music at Mattison’s Downtown, or dine waterside for a romantic evening or Sunday brunch at Ophelia’s on the Bay. Sarasota is also becoming a hot spot for live music, artisanal cocktails and craft beer. Enjoy one of the many local breweries including Calusa and Big Top Brewing, some of which feature rotating food trucks for a casual afternoon or evening out.
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DINING RECOMMENDATIONS
Siesta Key
Venice
Summer House Steak & Seafood 149 Avenida Messina, Siesta Key, FL 34242 941.260.2675
Dockside Waterfront Grill 509 N Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34285 941.218.6418
The Cottage 153 Avenida Messina, Siesta Key, FL 34242 941.312.9300
Crow’s Nest 1968 Tarpon Center Dr, Venice, FL 34285 941.484.9551
Siesta Key Oyster Bar 5238 Ocean Boulevard, Siesta Key, FL 34242 941.346.5443
Burgundy Square Cafe 227 Miami Ave W, Venice, FL 34285 941.451.8261
Ophelia’s on the Bay 9105 Midnight Pass Road, Sarasota, FL 34242 941.349.2212
Trattoria Da Mino 335 W Venice Ave, Venice, FL 34285 941.800.4466
Captain Curt’s 1200 Old Stickney Point Road, Sarasota, FL 34242 941.349.3885
Pop’s Sunset Grill 112 Circuit Rd, Nokomis, FL 34275 941.488.3177
St. Armands Circle
Sarasota
Columbia Restauarant 411 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, 34236 941.388.3987
Connors Steak & Seafood 3501 South Tamiami Trail #1165, Sarasota, 34239 941.260.3232
Venezia Italian Restaurant 373 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, FL, 34236 941.388.1400
Walt’s Fish Market Restaurant 4144 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 941.921.4605
Shore 465 John Ringling Boulevard #200, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.296.0301
Libby’s 1917 South Osprey Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34239 941.487.7300
Tommy Bahama 300 John Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota, FL, 34236 941.388.2888
Veronica Fish & Oyster Bar 1830 South Osprey Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34239 941.366.1342
Blu Kouzina 25 N. Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.388.2619
Pacific Rim 1859 Hillview Street, Sarasota, FL 34239 941.330.8071
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Downtown Sarasota
Lakewood Ranch
Indigenous Restaurant 239 South Links Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.706.4740
Speaks Clam Bar 8764 SR 70, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941.232.7646
Selva Downtown Sarasota 1345 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.362.4427
Dim Sum King 8194 Tourist Center Drive, Bradenton, FL 34201 941.306.5848
Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood. 1435 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.312.4001
Grove 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941.893.4321
State Street Eating House + Cocktails 1533 State Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.951.1533
Ed’s Tavern 10716 Rodeo Drive, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941.907.0400
Mediterraneo 1970 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.365.4122
JPAN Sushi & Grill 239 North Cattleman Road, Sarasota, FL 34243 941.960.3997
Owen’s Fish Camp 516 Burns Court #7030, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.951.6936
Libby’s Neighborhood Brasserie 8445 Lorraine Road, Sarasota, FL 34202 941.357.1570
Mattison’s City Grille Downtown Sarasota 1 North Lemon Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.330.0440
Nancy’s Bar-B-Q 14475 East State Road 70, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941.999.2390
1592 | Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails 1592 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.365.2234
Lucky Pelican Bistro 6239 Lake Osprey Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240 941.907.0589
Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse 35 South Lemon Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.366.7788
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Boca Sarasota 19 South Lemon Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.256.3565
Tandoor Fine Indian Cuisine 8453 Cooper Creek Boulevard, Bradenton, FL 34201 941.926.3077
KOJO 1289 North Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.536.9717
Michaelangelo Pizzeria 11517 Palmbrush Trail, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941.739.5656
8215 Lakewood Main Street, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
941.907.0648
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Arts & Culture
The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art is the official state art museum of Florida. In addition to the art museum, you can also tour the Ca’ d’Zan: John and Mable’s 36,000 square foot mansion, opulently designed in the Venetian Gothic style. Enjoy sprawling grounds, Mable’s beloved rose gardens, and stunning architecture right on the water. The Sarasota Opera House is a local and national treasure, with more than 40,000 guests a year attending performaces. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Theatre presents Broadway musicals, top national and international performers and comedians, and world-class symphony orchestras. Florida Studio Theatre was founded in 1973 and now has five theatres located in the heart of Downtown, Sarasota. As the largest subscription theatre in the state, the Florida Studio Theatre serves more than 230,000 live attendees each year across its diverse programs. The Asolo Repertory Theatre stages up to fifteen productions every season, offering everything from newly commissioned plays to reinterpretations of the classics. The Sarasota School of Ballet is internationally recognized, with rave reviews in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and others. The Sarasota Ballet has been invited to perform at the Kennedy Center, City Center in New York, and many more.
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SHOPPING ON THE SUNCOAST When it comes to Sarasota, there is no shortage of shopping options. With access to big box department shops and convenient retailers in the Greater Sarasota area, there are also local artists, boutiques and galleries to frequent for unique finds.
Downtown Sarasota
Sarasota’s downtown area boasts international style at local boutiques, as well as some national retailers including J. Mclaughlin and Eileen Fisher. Stroll down Main Street, and pop into Toy Lab for the kids, or Bookstore1Sarasota for a good read. For couture style, head to Lotus for everything from designer dresses to footwear. T. Georgiano’s Boutique also features fun accessories and designs for women. If you’re looking for a truly unique home store, head to Architectural Salvage in the Rosemary District to find pre-loved, sometimes historic, additions for your home. In Burns Court, you’ll find equally unique treasures at Sarasota Trading Co. as well as the surrounding boutiques like the stylish L. Boutique.
St. Armands Circle
Cross the Ringling Causeway to St. Armands Circle, where you’ll find delicious eats and local shops. On any given day, this shopping district is lively with people casually perusing shops like Binjara Traders, Lilly Pulitzer, Island Pursuit and more. Top off your shopping spree with cool and refreshing ice cream at Kilwin’s old fashioned confectionary.
University Town Center The Mall at University Town Center is a relatively new addition to Sarasota’s shopping scene, boasting some of the most high-end options. Here you’ll find Saks Fifth Avenue is a favorite among shoppers. Other popular retailers include Anthropologie, Apple, Brooks Brothers, lululemon, Mayors/Rolex and more. While shopping, check out the restaurants, from Seasons 52 to The Capital Grille.
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GOLF ON THE SUNCOAST When Florida comes to mind, sunshine, sand and golf are among the top takeaways. With ample courses, both private and public, there’s no excuse to not tee up and make par. Here are our choices for the top golf communities.
Bent Tree Country Club
The Bent Tree Country Club is a privately-owned members equity club that is home to a par 72 tree-lined golf course that is known for its expansive greens. The course is nestled on a natural preserve of lakes and wooded areas. This has made it a home of choice for wildlife and birds.
The Founders Club
Another private, member-owned signature golf course, The Founders Club is located a short two miles east of I-75 on Fruitville Road. This championship course is limited to just 275 memberships that can enjoy this exquisite clubhouse that is spread out over 24,000 square feet. This golf club is also referred to as ‘Golf Hall,’ and it has space for casual and fine dining.
Calusa Lakes Golf Club
The Calusa Lakes Golf Club is a beautiful 18 hole par 72 semi-private golf course on 460 acres of natural preserves. This golf course is player-friendly, with rolling fairways, nestled in the natural setting of Florida with abundant wild life and new Champion Grass greens.
IMG Academy Golf Club IMG Academy Golf Club is Bradenton’s premiere public golf course and is open to the public and members alike. Home to the IMG Academy golf students, the natural beauty of IMG Academy Golf Club is both rivaled and complimented by a great golf experience. The Golf Club features an 18-hole championship golf course, multiple practice areas, grille room and bar, as well as a fitness room.
Sarasota National Golf Club
Immerse yourself in the day with a round of golf at The Sarasota National Golf Club’s 18-hole championship course, set amidst the picturesque backdrop of wetlands and preserves, combining both beauty and challenge. The recently unveiled Palm Club adds a wealth of amenities, boasting a sprawling 32,000-square-foot resort-style clubhouse complex, encompassing exceptional dining, fitness facilities, tennis courts, swimming pools, and more. 28
SARASOTA COUNTY SCHOOLS Sarasota is proudly ranked as the second best school district in Florida, and the safest school district in Florida. Renowned for a superior public education system, with everything from excellent resources to experienced teachers, Sarasota’s schools embrace learning, extracurriculars and more!
Top Elementary Schools In Sarasota County Pine View School is a public magnet school in Sarasota County for grades 2-12, and is repeatedly ranked as the number one school in Florida, and number one elementary school in the United States. Phillippi Shores Elementary School is a highly reputable elementary school located in central Sarasota, offering state-of-the-art learning, including the International Baccalaureate program. Southside Elementary School is also a desirable public school located West of the Trail in Sarasota. The school prides itself on diverse learning opportunities and a strong incorporation of parents in the learning experience.
Top Middle Schools In Sarasota County Laurel Nokomis School is located in south Sarasota County. With a student population of roughly 1,200, this school caters to PK-8. Sarasota School of Arts/Sciences is a small public charter school located in Downtown Sarasota. Sarasota Middle School near I-75 specializes in student experience and exceptional learning.
Top High Schools In Sarasota County Riverview High School has recently undergone major renovations, including a new campus. This high school offers the prestigious International Baccalaureate Program, in addition to gifted courses, and an exemplary arts and music program. Sarasota High School offers a variety of gifted learning programs from Sarasota High AICE program to Sarasota MaST. Additionally, Sarasota High School offers a superior sports program and extracurricular activities for college preparations.
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SARASOTA COUNTY ACCOLADES (2020-2024) Sarasota is internationally recognized for its beauty, culture and opportunities. Below are just a few of the most recent accolades awarded by national media and voters choice awards. 2023 Best Places to Visit in Florida Siesta Key Beach (#1); U.S. News & World Report 2023 Best Places to Live in Florida 2023-2024 Sarasota (#1); U.S. News & World Report 2023 Best Places to Retire Sarasota (#11); U.S. News & World Report 2023 Top 9 Spring Break Fishing Destinations Sarasota (#2); Fishing Booker 2022 Top Cities in the U.S. That Have Seen the Most Growth 2021-2022 Sarasota (#1); PODS 2022 Best Places to Visit in Florida Sarasota (#1); U.S. News & World Report 2022 Siesta Key named in Traveler’s Choice Awards Best of the Best Beaches; Tripadvisor 2022 Sarasota makes New York Times’ 52 Places for a Changed World List; New York Times 2021 Best Places to Retire in the U.S. in 2021-22 U.S. News & World Report 2021 Best Beach Bars Across Florida: O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill; USA Today 2021 150 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2021-2022; U.S. News & World Report 2021 The Top 15 Islands in the Continental U.S.; Travel & Leisure 2021 10 Best U.S. Beach Towns to Live In; Travel & Leisure 2021 10 Best Beach Towns on the East Coast; Condè Nast Traveler 2020 The Best U.S. Islands: 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards; Conde Nast Traveler 2020 Readers’ Choice Award; South Magazine 2020 Top 30 Resorts in Florida: 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards; Conde Nast Traveler 2020 10 Best Kayaking Tours in the U.S.; USA Today 2020 The Top 15 Resort Hotels in Florida; Travel + Leisure 2020 Top 10 Places to Live on the Coast; Coastal Living
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WINNER
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