Beaches Fishing Villages & Dockside Destinations By Sarah Walch Search { Fishing Villages } at VISITFLORIDA.com Only a few working waterfronts remain in Florida, and visiting one is like stepping back into a much simpler time. Explore the independent spirit of these authentic and still-operational fishing villages from around the state. Kids can enjoy Florida’s resort camps and splashy attractions while adults can relax on a romantic escape. For adults, there’s the upscale atmosphere, the spa and even grocery delivery. For the little ones, the resort’s Kids Camp includes the Octopool, a fi shing camp and a splash pad. Set up a beach scavenger hunt, and then head to Lakes Regional Park, where you’ll fi nd a splash fountain and a mini-train ride. PHOTO: FLORIDA INSTITUTE FOR SALTWATER HERITAGE Destin is renowned for its family-friendly beach vibe, with The Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin, Jolee Island Nature Park and Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park close by. Stay at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, where you can arrange for a beach bonfi re. S’mores, anyone? Fishing festival at Cortez Historic Fishing Village Cortez Historic Fishing Village Located at the north end of Sarasota Bay, this village on the National Register of Historic Places has fought hard to maintain its heritage, which visitors will discover at the Florida Maritime Museum in the old schoolhouse. Ship models and shells are among the collection. Not-to-be-missed eats include the village’s famous smoked mullet and dock-to-table waterfront dining at the Star Fish Company and Cortez Kitchen. February is the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival with outstanding seafood, music and local artisans. ➍ Romance Apalachicola Located in North Florida at the mouth of the Apalachicola River, this quaint stop is a U.S. Historic District famous for its oysters–considered by many to be the world’s tastiest. Try Papa Joe’s Oyster Bar & Grill for shucked-to-order oysters, or Owl Café for second-floor waterfront views. The grand Gibson Inn, with its wraparound porch and restaurant, Gormley’s at the Gibson, is a local gem. Downtown, swing by the Old Time Soda Fountain, and then search for local tupelo honey. Boat tours get to the source of the area’s buzzed-about seafood, and the Oyster Brewing Company serves up tasty brews. Tarpon Springs Northwest of Tampa, this waterfront town was once known as the “sponge capital of the world” after it was discovered by Greek sponge divers. For a time, sponges were a larger Florida export than citrus. Now, Tarpon Springs has a higher percentage of Greek Americans than any other city, and the culture proves it. Along the riverfront, Dodecanese Boulevard is lined with shops and restaurants including Mama’s Greek Cuisine, Hellas and Mykonos. Take a boat tour to learn about the town’s history from the water. ð Gracious Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort sits on quiet Fernandina Beach, o ering a multi-tier pool and so many restaurants you’ll have no reason to leave. The hotel can arrange romantic activities like horseback riding on the beach, twilight cruises or a couples’ massage. Tarpon Springs Opposite page, Clockwise: Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort; Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina, Fort Myers; Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, Destin 18 4 VISITFLORIDA.com PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: AMELIA ISLAND CVB; PINK SHELL RESORT; SANDESTIN GOLF & BEACH RESORT Old Florida nostalgia or Southern charm? Tough choice. Anna Maria Island’s quaint beach scene includes cute villages like Pine Island Avenue Historic Green Village and Bridge Street. You’ll fi nd funky boutiques, mom-and-pop ice cream shops, and the Body & Sol Spa & Wellness for couples’ treatments. Stay in one of Pineapplefi sh Island Rentals’ colorful waterfront homes, rent an island scooter, or head straight to foodie paradise: The Sandbar for sunset drinks and seafood or Beach Bistro for an award-winning meal.
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