We are taking an unexpected trip to Orlando for a week and are looking for suggestions for beaches we can drive to (perhaps on the Gulf side if the water is warmer), esp. beaches where we can pick up shells and/or beaches that have good snorkeling! We definitely want to go to a beach where alcohol is allowed (no glass of course) so we will not be arrested in front of the children. Suggestions from you Barthmobile Floridians (and others) would mean a lot.

Thanks!
Sherrie

The premier shelling beaches are on Sanibel and Captiva, accessed via Ft. Myers, but these are a lo-o-ong drive from Orlando (close to 200 miles/4+ hrs, and fuggedabout lodging this time of year). More reasonable would be Honeymoon Island, accessed via Dunedin (N of Clearwater; plenty of lodging in Clearwater - but not on the beach - and Tampa) at about 110 miles/2.5 hrs.

Gulf water temps range from high 60s to low 70s this time of year.

Between Rusty's suggestions is Venice, and we have a number of great beaches. Casperson sounds like what you're looking for, but we have many others within minutes of the house. Suzie and I would be glad to have you.

Danny, we're looking for a place to stay from March 15 to March 22. So far, can only get space at Turtle Beach Campground on Siesta Key from the 18th to the 22nd. We would like a campground either on the water or very close to it. Where would you suggest?
Jim

Thanks Rusty and Danny! We're laying over at Sherrie's mom's in Myrtle Beach finishing the drive today.

Danny, thanks for the offer but I don't think we're going to run down that far. We might head over to the spots north or south of Tampa/St. Pete one day this week. We spent the day today at Discovery Cove, swam with dolphins and all kids of fish/rays. It's pretty awesome, I'd recommend it.

If you end up north of Tampa try Crystal River. There are some great spots here in to swim with the manatees. Give a shout if you are in the area, it would be great to see you guys.

Thanks TJ, if we head that way I'll let you know. We don't really have a solid plan for each day, just flowing with it.

Absolutely great. Need to have some of that 'flowing with it'
Jim