Central West

Central West, Florida, or the Gulf Coast, encompasses 5,200 feet along the Gulf of Mexico Coast. The focus of Central West, Florida, both traditionally and historically is Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay is a perfect, natural port. Other communities and areas include Clearwater Beach, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Venice, Tarpon Springs, Weeki Wachee Springs, Crystal River, Gasparilla Island and Lee Island Coast. Each offers their own personal take on the Gulf Coast character.

Yet, the boast of the Central West, as it appears in ads and brochures, is “Central West Florida has an average of 361 days of sunshine.” It is a promise it constantly lives up to. No wonder, other names for the Central West include Holiday Isles, Pinellas Coast and Suncoast.

Central West offers so much along its Gulf Coast line. There are abundant accommodations along the waterfront, lively beach scenes and secluded bays and inlets. West Central, Florida, hotels and motels are among the best the state can offer to weary vacationers. There are ample cottages and plenty of resorts to go around, as long as you book in advance. Try renting a home, apartment or a cottage from a local, a local realtor or at the Island’s End Resort. When in doubt or if you are a “natural type” person, try beach camping in West Central, Florida.

This coast, stretching from Saint Petersburg to Clearwater Beach, is the most hectic and active resort area along the entire Gulf coast. It has been enormously busy since around 1,500 beachgoers arrived in the area in the time of World War I. Gulf Coast beaches include Clearwater Beach, Sand Key Park, Indian Rocks Beach, Madeira Beach, St. Pete Beach, Apollo Beach, Pass-a-Grille, Fort de Soto Park, Anna Maria Island, Siesta Key and Longboat Key.

There is a lot to visit, see and do in Central West, Florida. You can swim, sun, stroll, fish or loaf in the sun. The sand beckons as does the sea wall. You can book fishing charters for West Central, Florida or toss your line off the sea wall into the deep crystal blue water. There is shell picking at many off shore islands, including Egmont Key. Try nature walks and eco-type tours on Egmont Key and Honeymoon Island. Go to Crystal River and watch the Manatees or wander the nature trails through the unspoiled woods of Caladesi Island.

There are aquariums, art galleries and gardens to explore while some spend time on a West Central Florida fishing charter. Go to the zoo or relax on the beach. There is so much to do besides charter fishing in West Central Florida. Come down and try it out.