thoughts on western Florida beaches?

[shaynaatl]

I'm helping to plan a 4 day family reunion in July.  We'd like to do a family-friendly beach area in Florida.  The plan is to get a bunch of condos, so we can at least eat breakfast in.

We've already done Destin, Miami, and Ft Lauderdale, so looking to try something new.

Does anyone have any opinions or thoughts on any of these destinations:

Fort Myers Beach
Clearwater Beach
St. Pete Beach
Marco Island
Naples
Siesta Key
Sarasota
Treasure Island

Any other spots I should look at? 

Also, everyone is flying in so would like to be somewhat close to an airport.  Thanks!

[sarahsas]

I love Siesta Key. Gorgeous beaches!

My top beach though is one you haven't mentioned: Sanibel. Extremely family friendly, shelling, the wildlife preserve on island is amazing, tons of restaurants/shops... I highly recommend Royal Shell vacations for condo or house rentals.

[sarahsas]

Side note: Sanibel is about 45min to the airport, easy drive. Closer than Marco and Naples.

[digitaldiva16]

My dad rented a condo on Siesta Key last winter and I loved the Sarasota area. The beaches, especially Siesta, are amazing. It's about 25-30 min from the Sarasota airport and a little over an hour to the Tampa airport. Beyond the beaches, there are lots of things to do (aquarium, botanical gardens, Ringling museum, shopping, dining, etc.) and it's very family-friendly.

Now my dad has a condo near Clearwater, where I'll be visiting in the next couple of months. We vacationed in the Clearwater/St. Pete area when I was a kid and there was also lots to do in that area. 

[rupertpenny]

Have you thought about Pensacola Beach? Pensacola has an airport, the beach is nice, and there are other kid friendly attractions like the Gulf Breeze Zoo and the Naval Aviation Museum.

[alleinesein]

I've been to Sarasota/Long Boat Key. Nice area, quiet beaches, $$$. There are a ton of condos in the area to rent so depending on how many people you have you might be able to find one big enough to hold everyone

[Pom]

I love Sanibel... totally gorgeous.

Also Anna Maria Island (near Tampa), Holmes Beach, Siesta Key.

[spedrunner]

Siesta key is breath taking!!!!

[tres3]

30A- Seaside, So. Walton, Sandestin