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While they could easily fit under the 'what to do' category, Tampa Bay area beaches are in a class by themselves. From Pine Island in northern Hernando County to Manasota Key in south Sarasota County, the region's distinctive western edge is traced by the ever-changing and incomparable beaches and fringed with a series of barrier islands.

In fact two Pinellas County beaches are consistently included among rankings of the nations best. Caladesi Island State Park (No. 5, according to Dr. Stephen Leathermans's 11th annual ranking), is a true island, so you'll have to rev up the john boat or take one of the hourly ferries across. But it's always worth the ride. Dunes and sea oats fact the Gulf of Mexico, providing the perfect spot to commune with shore birds and laze in the sun.

Another close by recreational area and beach is Fort DeSoto Park, ranked No. 6. And you can drive right up to this one. Bring your bike, kayak or canoe because there's plenty of room for all three on this boomerang-shaped key at the southern tip of the county ' or rent one right there.

If it is beaches you like there are 28 miles of white sandy shores which delivers to you all the natural wonders of the Gulf of Mexico! Swimming, shelling, sandcastle building, sunbathing are all right here at your fingertips. Great sand, clear waters are all well and good, but have you ever seen a sunset from a Gulf beach? Unforgettable. And to think some people here just look out their patio doors every day to see it. Of course, there's also the evening ritual of bringing you lawn chair and favorite beverage down to the beach and watching the colorful spectacle with other beach lovers. Polished off with a good round of applause.

As of this writing in early 2005, all waterfront locations in Tampa Bay have been appreciating yearly up to 40% per year. Still today many Realtors would agree that this trend is only going to continue given the nature of population moving to the sunshine state and the lack of any new waterfront to be developed. Older motels and hotels are being demolished to support new condominium projects. Get in while the getting in is still good!

To be on the water or not to be is the question and much of it depends on your pocket book. Waterfront real estate in all of the Tampa Bay area has been appreciating at unpresidented rates for the last several years yet still is a bargin when compared to other locations in the United States.




When it comes to being near or on the beach you'll have a few choices. Condominium's and Town Houses pepper all of the Bay area beaches and quite a few of the inter-coastal areas. Single family homes are also widely available. Prices differ depending on the location, size and use of the residence.

Condominiums are a popular choice when it comes to living nearer the beaches or actually on the Beach or inter-coastal waterfront living. A 10 to 15 minute drive to the beach you can find 1 and 2 bedroom condominiums begining around $90,000.00 There are quite a few 55 and over communities also. If you want waterfront living, depending on which vista, beach or inter-coastal location prices start around $140,000 for a one bedroom and go all the way up to around a million for penthouse locations. Average 2 bedroom 2 bathroom water view units can be purchased beginning at $250,000. If your desire is to own an actual 2 bed west facing gulf front, plan on spending near $425,000 on up for older buildings and $550,000 for newer buildings. Monthly maintenance fees which cover building, water, insurance etc can run from $350.00 a month up to $500.00.

There are many things to consider when deciding on a condominium. The building's condition both with maintenance and with management is paramount. The building reserves for repairs and of course the possiblility of assesments. Also, many buildings have strict condominium restrictions if it is in your plan to rent the units part of the year.

If you want less apartment style living and closer to single family living then a town house might be what you desire. Some homes of this nature are fee simple which means you will look after all of the upkeep or they have building maintenance fees similar to that of a condominium.

Most are usually two story units and can be found in clusters of a couple or 20 or 30. Gulf front homes begin near $550,000. Inter-coastal town homes can be purchased for less depending on the location.

Here, age and location has everything to do with single-family residences near or on the beach. Gulf front residences can be found starting around $1,300,000. Inter-coastal and canal homes can be found starting around $400,000 depending upon type and depth of water.

Many of the areas inter-coastal homes were built in the 50's and there are many which have been completely rehabbed. Many people purchase these homes only to bulldoze them away and build their new fancy home the way they want it. Whatever the case, compared to many other parts of this great country, bargains can be had here because the prices aren't going down.

Single family homes a few miles from the beach can be found in all price ranges starting near $120,000 on up.