It's no coincidence that the gulf side of Florida around Tampa Bay has an island called "Honeymoon Island." After all, this part of the Sunshine State offers white sand beaches, brilliant sunsets and warm tropical waters that make it one of the top newlywed destinations on the East Coast. Not just for young brides and grooms, Clearwater is the perfect family vacation spot with its warm water and friendly attractions. If your vacation allows for a little golf, there are several choices nearby including: Clearwater Country Club, the Clearwater Executive Golf Course and the Cove Cay Country Club. Staying in a hotel is one way to visit the area, but renting a villa offers more possibilities, including cooking your own meals and enjoying a larger, more comfortable accommodation.
Sand Glo Villas
The Sand Glo Villas offer travelers a comfortable and attractive villa right on the beach. Built in 1999, the 11 villas offer fully equipped kitchens with microwaves and dishwashers. You can enjoy the sunset from a private balcony. Villas are available as one- or two-bedroom units. Additional amenities include flat screen TVs, all linens, barbecue grills and chaise lounges. With daily rates costing no more than a comparable hotel room, weekly and monthly rentals reduce the fee dramatically. There is no maid service and small dogs are welcome. These are nonsmoking villas.
Sand Glo Villas
19316 Gulf Blvd.
Indian Shores, FL 33785-2215
(727) 320-9720
sandglo.com
Holiday Villas II
Located on Indian Shores Beach, the Holiday Villas II offers two- and three-bedroom villas each with a fully equipped kitchen and unique decor. Each villa offers a pristine view of the Gulf of Mexico. The villas have a large sundeck and swimming pool and chaise lounges are available to bring to the beach. As with most villas, there is a minimum stay required and the rates drop the longer you rent. Most rooms have a four-night minimum but during spring break and the Fourth of July holidays, the minimum is seven days. With a full kitchen, you can stay in to eat or dine out at some of the many local eateries.
Holiday Villas II
9610 Gulf Blvd.
Indian Shores, FL 33785-2306
(800) 506-0355
holidayvillasii.com
Coconut Villas
Close to golfing, sport fishing and the ocean, the Coconut Villas in Dunedin are just north of Clearwater. Large, fully equipped kitchens are featured in spacious one-bedroom units. Additional items include umbrellas as well as silverware and plates. Located on a marina with ocean views, the villas are available as daily, weekly and monthly rentals. There is a pool available with a sundeck and pets are allowed with prior approval. The patio area offers a grill and picnic tables. Located in a quiet area, the Coconut Villas offer a private accommodation.
Coconut Villas
2677 Saint Joseph Drive East
Dunedin, FL 34698
(727) 415-5039
coconutvillasfl.com
About The Author
Tom Nari teaches screenwriting and journalism in Southern California. With a degree in creative writing from Loyola University, Nari has worked as a consultant to the motion picture industry as well as several non-profit organizations dedicated to the betterment of children through aquatics. Nari has written extensively for GolfLink, Trails and eHow.