Best beaches in Florida?

[RoxMonster]

I know it's early, but we are starting to save up and will probably ask for some travel money for Christmas. We are tentatively planning a trip next summer with my BIL and his girlfriend to Florida (I know it's low season there, but we like that because it's cheap!)

We were wanting to rent a condo (preferably on the beach, but near the beach is fine) for a week and just beach it up. But also hoping for some nightlife, maybe some shopping, a cute town area, etc.

What would you say is the best town for beaches in FL? I have been to Clearwater before but that was years ago (like 20 years) so I have no idea if it's still a nice area now. H has been to Marco Island a few times, and that is a possibility, but he might want to also go someplace new.

We'd be flying in from one of the Chicago airports. We would need to rent a car, but would love it if there was an airport within 45 min to an hour of the place we're staying. We were thinking Gulf coast but we'll do Atlantic side if there are really nice beaches.

[kpol]

Siesta Key Beach is my favorite by far. There is plenty to do in the area, great restaurants, and an unlimited amount of condos to stay at. I grew up going there every spring and have great memories of the place. We would always fly out of Midway or Bloomington and there are plenty of flights going to Sarasota (25ish mins away) or Tampa (a little over an hour).

[Deleted]

Siesta Key has been rated the best beach in Florida and some of the locals even suggested we check it out.

We rented a condo in August in Indian Shores, which is right near Clearwater. The beach is private in that area and it was really nice because there were no crowds. It seems to be an area for old people though. We had to drive a good 30 minutes for outlet shopping and nightlife. It was nice for just sitting on the beach and dining out, though. I hate when people crowd my beach. lol

[sarahsas]

Siesta Key and Sanibel are my favorites. Sanibel if you like shelling!

[D2M]

Ditto the Siesta Key/Sarasota recommendation. The sugar-white beaches are beautiful. I also love Pass-a-grille and Fort Desoto in St. Pete but you'd need a car to get around. You'd have better luck on foot in Sarasota.

[alleinesein]

Im headed to the Sarasota area in a few weeks. I would love any recommendations for the area