Just wondering if anyone can recommend a great place to stay in Florida that feels like Hawaii? We are looking to be on the beach and to snorkel. Has anyone stayed at any of the Florida Keys? Which do you recommend? Any great family places to stay on the beach?
Go to Hawaii. It would be cheaper for you, wouldn't it? If you really want Fl. we have been to Captiva & Sanibel and they are great. But they do not compare to HI.
i lived in FL for 11 years and the Keys are the way to go. it's amazing once you leave Miami/Homestead how the whole atmosphere just changes. Jimmy Buffet has it right when he says "changes in lattitudes, changes in attitudes.' Can't recommend any place in particular, but the Keys are brimming with tons of small resorts & mom and pop places that are sure to provide you with what you desire. We were fond of a rustic fish camp on Big Pine Key, but it's RUSTIC. (oh we loved it though!)
There are some areas south of Ft. Meyers that will give you a similar feel, but the population density is a little higher.
Go to Hawaii! You're already in CA, so it would probably be cheaper anyway! I love Florida beaches and have spent 41 years going to many of them on both coasts, but I've also been to Hawaii numerous times, and there's no comparison! If you have to go to Florida, you'll probably get the best "feel" of what you're looking for (and certainly the best snorkeling) in the Keys. If you go to a different area, it depends on where you're going as to best places to stay; best family places, etc. Most larger groups and families rent houses on the beaches in Florida, and there are some lovely places to do that. I still say Hawaii though -the landscape and beauty and climate beat Florida completely -especially if you're going in the summer. Hawaii gives you beautiful mountainous islands spilling into gorgeous water with constant breezes and Florida is flat as a pancake and hotter than hell in the summer. Even sitting on the beach is REALLY hot during the summer months and you're not guaranteed a breeze.
I would assume going to HI would be cheaper for you. But FL is beautiful as well. I go to Destin all the time and it's like going to the Carribean (not the same feel as HI but just spectacular). I went to HI on my honeymoon and I will say there's just no comparison. If you want a HI vacation---I'd just go there.
lots of beautiful places in FL but don't go to the Keys if you want beaches and snorkeling - go to Hawaii (esp to Kauai - awesome island for those with little kids - lots of beaches you can travel to easily by car - 15 - 30 min from central hotel for variety with calm waters and tons of fish). White sand. Gorgeous weather.
Given the recent events in our planet, I would recommend British Columbia, beautiful lakes and beaches to snorkel. Also very laid back and you will love it!
Blessings.......
