CONTACT
(941) 877-5588

×

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

When planning a trip to Florida’s Gulf Coast, certain towns like Sarasota and Bradenton come to mind. However, this side of the Sunshine State is filled with unique other cities just waiting for you to discover them. With vacation rentals up and down the coast, Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals serves some of the best cities to visit. For the perfect mix of relaxation and memorable things to do, head to Longboat Key.

 

A Checklist of Longboat Key Activities

Found off Sarasota’s coast, Longboat Key is part of a chain of barrier islands. Whether you’re staying at one of our Longboat Key rentals or planning a day trip to this island, there is plenty of fun to be had.

 

Plan a Relaxing Getaway to the Gulf Coast

While Longboat Key is known for its laidback atmosphere, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of fun and adventurous things to do. Have a relaxing place to call home by booking your stay with Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals. Our homes are near everything you need to make the most out of your escape.

We strive to provide visitors with the best vacation rentals in some of the best vacation destinations, including Longboat Key. Our inventory includes everything from townhomes and condos to single-family homes with pools. This wide selection means you can find something that checks all your boxes. Call 844-548-5637 to learn more about our accommodations or how to save on your stay.

Finding pet friendly attractions can be difficult when vacationing to a new area, let alone finding a rental that allows pets can be a whole other story. Vacationing with pets is hard work! Although, if you are a pet lover as much as I am, you understand that leaving your pet behind on a family vacation is absolutely not going to happen. Plus, they enjoy vacations just as much as you, it’s a new place to explore.

We understand how hard it can be to find pet friendly rentals, but lucky for you Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals offers plenty. Everything from condos, 4 bedroom homes, and town homes, just search pet friendly under “type.” No need to exclude your four legged friend, after all they are family too.

Bringing your pet also means that you have to find pet friendly attractions for them to enjoy with you while on vacation. Instead of doing all the research yourself, we decided to take care of it for you! Here are some of the best pet friendly attractions to bring your pets to while visiting the area.

8300 Desoto Memorial Hwy
Bradenton, FL, US 34280

Enjoy a stroll through history with trails that lead out to the Manatee River. Your dog will enjoy taking a quick dip to stay cool while walking the trails.

7025 44th Avenue E
Bradenton, FL, US 34203

Amenities include doggie drinking fountains, waste bags, and enclosed pavilion for smaller or elderly dogs. Enjoy the outdoors with your pet and allow them to run off some energy.

1704 99th St NW
Bradenton, FL, US 34209

If you and your dog love scenic nature trails, this is the place to be. Enjoy miles of trails, an awesome observation tower overlooking the preserve and outlets to the Gulf. If you love kayaking this is a perfect spot as well.

5 Bayfront Drive
Sarasota, FL, US

Come enjoy live entertainment, refreshing drinks, and awesome food at this pet friendly tiki bar. Located on the water at Marina Jacks, you will have a beautiful view of Sarasota Bay, and your dog will love the atmosphere there.

5851 Nathan Benderson Circle
Sarasota, FL 34235

Enjoy the 3-mile trail around a gorgeous lake, now home to many rowing competitions. Bring your pets for a run, walk, or bike ride. It is perfect for adventurous families who enjoy the great outdoors.

5239 University Pkwy
Bradenton, FL 34201

Now you can enjoy a delicious burger and cocktail with your four legged friend. Patio dining is available for you and your pets. Just ask for Jingo’s menu for your pet, and enjoy some delicious food. Also, Monday’s are Yappy Hour. Between 3-6 PM receive a dog entree free with any purchase of any two human entrees.

9000 Manatee Avenue West
Bradenton, FL 34209

Come out to the Causeway for a cookout, water sport fun, or a nice stroll along the beach. Pets are welcomed and are bound to have a great time swimming, playing in the sand, and trying to catch the mini crabs out and about.

If you have any questions or want to know more pet friendly attractions around the area feel free to contact us, we would be happy to help.

When it comes to choosing your vacation hot spot a few things come to mind such as location, activities, events, and food. You want to visit a place that will satisfy all these needs and more, well that place is Sarasota Florida. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should visit this amazing city.

If you have made up your mind that Sarasota is the place to be please check out our website to view all of our vacation rentals. We have over 50 luxury homes that will fit any kind of need whether it be a private pool home, golf course home, or condo, we have you covered! Click here to search our rentals.

If you haven’t noticed by now, vacation home rentals have gained popularity throughout the last few years. It is no stranger to us as of why, but for others, it may be a bit foggy. We want to clear that up and help you better understand the difference between a vacation home and hotel and what would suit you best on your next vacation or business trip.

Space: This is the biggest difference when it comes to renting a vacation home vs a hotel room. The average square footage for a vacation home is 2,000 square feet vs a measly 400 square feet for a hotel room. Why stick with one room when you can have an actual home including amenities you would use at your own home? For you, this means more room for relaxing and of course more privacy.

Price: Vacation homes offer more bang for your buck! The average cost for a 1,000 square foot condo that sleeps 6 guests would run you about $100 a night, the average hotel room sleeps a maximum of 4 and costs about $150 a night. Plus, think about all the money you will be saving cooking your own homemade meals vs eating out every night of your vacation. Spend more money visiting local attractions and events and creating memories that are priceless.

Family Friendly: When was the last time you could fit the whole family comfortably in a hotel room without jeopardizing your personal space? Vacation homes are great for family vacations and group vacations, not to mention your four legged friends can stay as well, just search for pet friendly homes. No one has to share a bed, closet, or tiny bathroom, and each person will have their privacy. No need to split up into 2 different hotel rooms just search for a 3-bedroom rental and you are bound to find one down the street from the hotel you were searching for.

Extras: Hotels offer many amenities that attract guests but they of course come at an additional fee. Things like WIFI is a must have nowadays and hotels do their best to earn income off of any add on that they can, same goes for parking. I know all those items look great over the internet, but how does that wallet feel after seeing all the additional charges on your checkout bill? Did you know most vacation rentals offer a private pool and spa, free WIFI, free parking, and free movies and games? Why cheat yourself of the extras when you can have it all in one set price? No hidden fees and no hidden surprises!

Hotels are a great choice for those travelers on the go that need a room for a night or two, but don’t make the mistake of planning a family vacation at a hotel when you could find a vacation home just around the corner. It will be your home away from home.

Looking to vacation on the gulf coast of Florida? We have over 50 luxury vacation homes that will fit your needs. Anything from a private pool home, condo on the golf course, to waterfront properties. Give us a call at 941-782-1559,or simply visit our website.

Are you curious about what to expect when visiting Bradenton, Florida? We understand planning vacations can often be stressful and time-consuming. It would be great to have a local expert tell you exactly what you are walking into, right? That’s where we step in. Here are a few things to expect on your visit to Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Weather: Bradenton, Florida is renowned for having perfect beach weather ALL year long. Don’t expect to have seasons here, just sunshine and warm weather. With plenty of sunshine, do expect to carry sunscreen with you. 30 minutes in the sun is all you need to get burnt. Summer time on Florida’s Gulf Coast does bring some afternoon storms, but fear not—those only last about an hour until the rain has passed.

Beaches: Expect the Bradenton beaches to have perfect water temperatures for about 9 months out of the year, minus the occasional cold fronts that will make their way down here. Expect there to be white, fluffy sand all throughout the Bradenton area beaches and crystal-clear aquamarine water. Also, expect to witness manatees, dolphins, and many other ocean wildlife while visiting the Gulf Coast, especially during the morning hours. Don’t forget about the evening hours though; you can expect to see amazing sunsets while taking a stroll along the coast. Last but not least, expect to get to the beach early. If you leave past noon, you may have a bit of a wait getting to the island.

Locals: No need to fear the locals here—we are as nice as they come. If you didn’t know, the Sarasota-Bradenton area was ranked as the city with the highest well-being in the United States in 2015. We are quick to help with any questions you may have, and while we may seem a bit skeptical to name our favorite dining spot, we’ll tell you anyway because we can’t help but gloat about the food. Which brings us to our next point.

Food: No need to worry about finding delicious food in Bradenton, Florida. Expect there to be a restaurant around every corner you turn—everything from local seafood places, delicious homemade pizza, to homemade ice cream and custard. Expect your taste buds to leave you wanting more. If you would like to know our personal favorite places, send us an email, and we would be glad to share our favorite spots.

If you have read enough and are ready to book your next vacation to Bradenton, Florida, give us a call or visit our website to book online. We have over 50 luxury homes to choose from, each with its own unique style to fit your needs.

You can’t visit Florida’s Gulf Coast without trying the fresh seafood locally caught. Each restaurant has its own unique twist to seafood favorites and amazing daily specials that will definitely leave you wanting more. We have listed our staff member favorites below for you to try out. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

 

Top Seafood Joints

The Old Salty Dog
British pub on the bay offering beer-battered hot dogs & other bar eats plus live music. Seafood is fresh and locally caught, if you go you must try the calamari!

Star Fish Company
Fish market & waterside hangout with buckets of beers & outdoor picnic-table seating. All seafood is fresh and locally caught everyday, enjoy the amazing fried shrimp and hush puppies!

Riverhouse Reef & Grill
Multilevel, upscale-casual seafood restaurant on the water with views, dockside tables & bar. You have to try the amazing pot pie, it’s made with lobster!

Rod and Reel Pier Restaurant
Easygoing seafood specialist furnishing meals such as coconut-crusted mahi mahi plus scenic views of the gulf. If you look just out beyond the restaurant you will  be able to spot the sunshine Skyway bridge.

O’Shucks Raw Bar & Grill 
Home of the whole hog fish, this is a must try! Not only does this place serve up some delicious food, the atmosphere is absolutely wonderful!

Owen’s Fish Camp
Bustling locale serves up imaginative takes on seafood dishes amid eclectic decor. It wouldn’t be called a fish camp if they weren’t bringing in the Bay’s local fish every day. They also serve great craft beer and wine.

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill
Casual bayfront staple with seafood specialties, a dockside patio & fish-themed decor. Enjoy casual waterfront dining on  Sarasota Bay.

If you are ready for some delicious seafood but just need to find a rental, no worries we have got you covered. We have over 50 luxury vacation rentals in the Bradenton and Sarasota area that are bound to fit all of your needs. Anything from a private pool homes, condos on the golf course, or water front properties. You tell us what you need and we will find you the home.

Are you looking to spend Independence Day on the gulf coast with family or friends? Look no more, we have all the exciting details. Celebrating the fourth of July on the gulf coast gives a whole different feel to independence day. With over 4 different locations for fire work shows, festivals and entertainment you are bound to have a blast.

 

Festivities

Festivities for independence day are endless here on the Gulf Coast. Following up to the fourth, live entertainment such as boat races at Sarasota Bay, Marauders baseball games, and many festivals including the Fourth festival in Palmetto and a parade on Anna Maria Island, will take place throughout the city. Also, the local beaches are available for cookouts along the coast, but be sure to get there early.

 

Grill Out

If dealing with crowds isn’t your style you can opt in for a family grill out. If you are renting one of our private pool homes you can enjoy a BBQ grill out at your own oasis. BBQ grills are available to rent and already come stocked with a propane tank. All that is left to do is invite family or friends and bring the food. Enjoy the fourth of July holiday in the comfort of your own home away from home.

 

Firework Shows

Fireworks are being held at Siesta Key beach, Marina Jacks in Sarasota, The Sandbar restaurant on Bradenton Beach, the Green Bridge in Bradenton, and Venice Beach. Make a day of it with family and friends. Bring your cooler, games, and seats to spend the day soaking up the sunshine.

 

Night Out on the Town

Looking for a night out? No problem, Bradenton/Sarasota offers plenty of adult fun. During the fourth of July weekend enjoy First Friday spent at downtown Lakewood Ranch or downtown Sarasota. These events take place every first Friday of the month. Live entertainment and vendors will be set up all throughout both downtown areas. Enjoy live music, delicious food, cocktails and so much more!

With all of our properties located within a few miles of all these fun events it’s no question whether to book a home with us. Don’t miss out celebrating Independence Day on the gulf coast. Give us call today to check availability or simply search our rentals. For more activities fourth of July weekend click here.

Its summer time in Florida which means plenty of sunshine, perfect ocean temperatures, and beach weather for the next 5 months. If you are looking for an adventure filled summer with countless outdoor activities to do, Bradenton- Sarasota is the place to be!  The Gulf Coast is filled with plenty of watersport activities to choose from. Whether you want to spend a day fishing, boating, paddle boarding, kayaking, parasailing, or jet skiing we have it all.  Here are a few local watersport companies around the area that we recommend you check out. They will help make your overall experience on the Gulf Coast one not to forget.

 

Watersport Rental Companies

Siesta Key Watersports offers multiple different services and has over 24 years in the business. You can be assured you are dealing with Watersport professionals. They have the friendliest staff and the best maintained equipment to ensure your outing is carefree. For more info click here.

Wavesplash Watersports is Anna Maria Island’s premier multi sport water sport rental and tour operator. They are committed to creating unforgettable water adventures and experiences in and around Anna Maria Island and the Gulf Isles. See more here.

Since 1982, Coastal Watersports has been a family owned and operated recreational water sport facility. They are located directly on the Gulf Coast beaches of Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, Florida. They proudly offer exhilarating Jet Ski Rentals as well as Sailing, Kayaking, and Paddle Boarding on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. Click here for more info.

H2O Watersportz offers deluxe Boat rentals, Jetski (Wave runner) rentals, charters, and Tours in the Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, and Longboat Key areas. Spending the day exploring the waterways of Anna Maria Island is exciting and fun aboard their roomy pontoon boats or Yamaha Jet skis. All of their equipment is state of the art, safe, clean and in excellent operating condition. Click here for more info.

Located in beautiful Sarasota Florida, Island style Watersports offer tours that are both exciting and relaxing. Take your family or friends on an exciting adventure and experience Florida’s beautiful and exotic wildlife. In addition to kayak tours, they also offer kite boarding and windsurfing lessons as well as SUP (Stand up Paddle) sales and rentals. Click here for more info.

SUP is all about being happy, healthy, respecting nature and exploring beautiful waterways. There is no better way to relax, get a fantastic physical workout and discover the beauty of the local area. Enjoy the local Gulf, Bays, Mangroves and Lakes of Sarasota County by enjoying the Eco-tour from one of their professional guides. From Anna Maria Island south to Venice. Click here for more info.

If you are looking to plan a fun adventurous vacation look no more, Sarasota-Bradenton is the perfect spot.  Plan to visit some of the above watersport places and check out all of our available vacation rentals at www.gcvacationrentals.com. We have over 50 luxury rentals that will fit any need. Book online or give us a call at 941-782-1559. We are located only a short distance from all of these great watersport companies.

Looking for a budget friendly vacation on the gulf coast? No need to look any longer! Bradenton is the perfect place to have lots of fun without breaking the bank.  Whether you are traveling with friends or traveling with kids, there are plenty of things to do that will keep both parties happy. Bradenton offers everything from awesome adventure trails, endless activities and of course local area beaches. Let’s dive in and take a look at budget friendly activities in Bradenton, Florida.

 

Adventure seekers

Every one needs a little adventure in life, and what’s better than creating adventures while on vacation. Bradenton offers plenty of budget friendly adventurous parks to explore. Robinson’s preserve is one of the best local spots to take a hike, ride your bike, or even get a nice workout in. Located in  NW Bradenton, the preserve features hiking paths,  kayak and canoe waterways and is home to hundreds of marine species. Make a day of it and opt in for a picnic at the preserve or take a hike throughout the 600+ acres of preserve.

Another great spot is Desoto National Memorial, also located in NW Bradenton, the park is filled with many types of different animals and plant species to observe while trailing through the park. Group tours are available free of charge and are great for those that love history. The park is also pet friendly and offers a spot to cool down in the manatee river.

If you are looking for an awesome trail on the beach, Coquina Baywalk is the place to visit. Nothing beats the amazing views of the gulf throughout the many trails. This bay walk is a blast but if you’re not careful it could be easy to get lost. Be on the lookout for many different species including dolphins and jumping mackerel.

 

Calling all beach bums

What better way to save money than to opt in for a beach day. Nothing can beat a more budget friendly place than the beach. Bradenton area beaches include Coquina,  Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. Make a day of it and pack a picnic to enjoy while soaking up the sun. With our beach pack, everything you need will be included with only a small fee. Beach chairs,  kids toys, beach towels and of course sun screen is included. Watching the sunsets are also a great for evenings on the gulf coast and they don’t cost a penny. Enjoy beautiful views all while making unforgettable memories.

 

Activity seekers

If you’re an activity seeker no worries, Bradenton offers plenty of activities that are budget friendly.  Spend a day on the putt putt course; you can find one in Bradenton off Cortez called Smugglers cove or on Bradenton Beach named the Fishing Hole. Each course is 18 holes and is  perfect for a day out with kids or date night with your loved one. Smugglers cove also features a section to stop and feed the baby gators they have with bait they supply. Also, score a hole in one on the mystery hole and win a free second game of golf.

Another fun activity to do in Bradenton is bowling. Head out to AMF Bowling lanes on Cortez Rd. Just look up the times of when it would be best to visit depending on what type of crowd is there.  They have times for teens, kids and adults. The bowling lane also features a game room, food court and bar.

Looking for a ball game to catch? No problem, you’ll find one of those in Bradenton as well. Mckechnie Field offers ball games almost all year long whether it the Bradenton Marauders or spring training for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Tickets are affordable and makes for a fun day with family or friends.  To see many other budget friendly activities click here.

 

Plan a budget friendly vacation

If you are ready to plan a budget friendly vacation, look no more, Bradenton is the spot to be. We have plenty of homes in different price ranges that are bound to fit your needs. If you would rather talk to one of our sales representatives please reach out to us at 941-782-1559.ales representatives please reach out to us at 941-782-1559.

Our local area beaches are some of the most renowned beaches in the world. With beautiful sunsets, white fluffy sand, and of course the crystal clear aquamarine water these beaches are worth the travel to Florida’s gulf coast. As a newcomer you may be unclear as to what beaches are around the area, well no worries, we are hear to help. The white sand beaches stretch more that 25 miles throughout the Bradenton and Sarasota area. Starting from Anna Maria Island all the way down to Siesta Key. Lets take a look at all of the local area beaches that are awaiting your visit.

 

Local Area Beaches: Anna Maria Island

Bean Point: Starting from Anna Maria Island, Bean Point is the first on the list. Bean Point is located on the very northern tip of Anna Maria Island. With views unlike any other, Bean point is one of the most pristine beaches to visit. Views of the sunshine Sky way also make for great pictures. The #1 thing this beach is known for are the beautiful sunsets. If you are looking to see a gorgeous sunset while in the area this is most definitely the spot to be. The water is awesome as well and makes a great spot for fishing. Just be careful of the stronger current in this area, some say it’s not the most safe spot to swim.

Holmes Beach: Welcome to one of the most popular spots on Anna Maria Island. This local area beach is famous for beach volleyball as well as one of the best cafes on the island. Here you will find a younger crowd enjoying a day at the beach. Being one of the most active beaches in the area you are welcome to bring your paddle board, skim board, football or any other game you could think of. If you don’t have enough players there is always someone around that is willing to jump in on the fun. After a day of soaking in the sun enjoy a nice cold treat at the cafe.

Bradenton Beach: This local area beach is most known for there sugar sand beaches, fishing hot spots and most of all the shopping and dining experience. Located just off of Cortez road, this beach is a great spot to spend your entire day. At night enjoy plenty of night life entertainment. Many of the restaurants feature live music up until 10 PM, which always makes for a fun night. All of the restaurants on the island are delicious, you can’t go wrong choosing between them.

 

Local Area Beaches: Sarasota

Long Boat Key: With 12 miles of white sand beaches, water front golfing and dining this local area beach makes for an elegant and scenic environment. Most of longboat key is private access only but there are a few public area accesses. The best reason to travel to longboat key is for the dining experience. With restaurants such as the Chart House, Mar Vista and Dry Dock Grill you are bound to experience one the most memorable evenings while on vacation.

Lido Beach: Located just a half mile from the famous St Armands Circle, Lido Beach attracts visitors from all over the world. Being less crowded than it’s neighbor beach Siesta Key, Lido offers a more relaxed feel for visitors. Not to mention you can spend your day shopping at St Armands and afterwards spend your afternoon walking Lido Beach. Amenities at Lido include restrooms, concessions, playground equipment, parking and more.

Siesta Key Beach: Last but definitely not least, Siesta Key Beach. This local area beach was ranked the #1 beach in the U.S by Trip Adviser in 2015. With sparkling blue waters, 99% pure quartz sand and endless activities, you must visit this beach while in the area. Whether you want to spend the day soaking in the sun on the beach or renting jet skis you are bound to have plenty of fun. Siesta Key Beach offers tennis courts, grills, volleyball courts and much more. Also, don’t miss out on Sunday’s drum circle that takes place on Siesta Beach. It’s an experience that wont be one to forget.

 

Planning Your Vacation

Now that you know all of the local area beaches in the Bradenton and Sarasota area, it’s time to plan a trip here! If you are ready to plan a family vacation or getaway like never before, take a look at our spacious and cozy vacation home rentals. Whether you need a 1 bedroom home or a 5 bedroom home, we’ve got you covered.

×