Thanks. Another friend recommended Sarasota as well. Looking at that also.

St. Armand’s circle in Sarasota is amazing! Food and shopping, walk to the beach!
Buddy

It does also depends on the time you want to go and what you might want to tourist to.

Our kids rent a VRBO for two weeks every winter, they can walk to St Armand’s Circle from the house. Lots to do around there, great restaurants, close to Siesta Key, etc, but it is busy and traffic can get pretty bad.

We’re in Bradenton over the winter, but I’d look at Anna Maria Island. They’re a step back in time compared to some of the islands and towns that are wall to wall condos and extreme traffic.

Anna Maria doesn’t allow structures over two stories, so there’s no giant condos and similar monstrosities blocking the sun and access to the beaches. Miles of beach on Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Longboat Key, all within a short drive. Tampa is within an hour, or so. Disney within a couple hours.

Anna Maria is more laid back, but we went out there 2 years ago in Feb to see the sunset and sat in traffic for 45 minutes to go 3 miles. With only 2 bridges and they are draw bridges that open for ships, serving those islands it was bumper to bumper cars in the evening. Once we got back across the Cortez and stopped for supper at the Marina restaurant, they said the bridge opens on a schedule and we must have got caught in the back up from that.

Another vote for Anna Maria Island if you want a slower "old Florida" experience. Low density, great beaches and restaurants, and most people get around the island in a golf cart. Our good friends own a house there, so we get down there a fair amount. Nearby golf, fishing trips, close to Tampa and easy fly into Sarasota airport. I seem to recall a muscle car museum near the Sarasota airport.

Second that on Anna Maria Island if you want an "old Florida" experience. We just bought a house in Saint James City (south half of Pine Island) for the old Florida feel as it's quiet and way less hectic than where the grandkids live in Cape Coral.

You are tempting fate. Has it been rebuilt or another project for you to rebuild ?

Thanks guys...appreciate all of the suggestions!

We sold our house on Marco (too hectic since COVID) and went over to the east coast. Melbourne Beach area is like Marco was 25 years ago. Beach not crowded in season. Fishing is good. Downside - not as much for the kids to do.