Having worked in the travel industry for more than 20 years, Natalie Sexton has seen a LOT of pretty beaches. And as Ocean Holidays’ head of brand marketing she’s well aware of the many stunning sands that lie across the USA. But it’s the beaches in Florida’s Bradenton Area that receive the highest praise. “They’re some of the most beautiful I’ve seen in my life,” she explains. “I’ve travelled a lot, and been to the Caribbean and Bora Bora, but these are my favourites. They're just really expansive, with beautiful white sand. And the sunrises and sunsets from these beaches are some of the best I’ve ever seen.”
Located on Florida’s west coast, the destination includes the city of Bradenton on the mainland next to the Manatee River, and the two barrier islands of Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. Natalie normally recommends it to clients who are also visiting Florida’s popular theme parks in Orlando. “For me, it’s a no brainer,” she explains. “The theme parks are the number one reason why most people go to Orlando, but it is very hectic and full-on. So why wouldn't you tag on some beach time afterwards? People often don't think about adding on somewhere like Anna Maria Island after Orlando, but I think you need it after being on your feet in the parks!”
Natalie recommends the destination for families, couples and multi-generational groups, adding: “We get a lot of multi-generational families, as if you’ve got grandparents they'll enjoy the more laid-back side of it, and the kids are very happy on the beach.”
Natalie enjoys a jet ski experience in the Bradenton Area
While Easter is a popular time for UK travellers to visit, prices are at a premium. Instead, for families who have to travel in the school holidays Natalie suggests the October half term – which many schools have now extended to two weeks – or the February half term, both of which offer more competitive prices. “I’ve visited in February before and it was the most glorious weather,” she adds.
She also stresses the value for money the Bradenton Area offers. “It's not necessarily the cheapest price point, but I think the quality is excellent – it’s just pristine there. And there's accommodation for every budget. We’re a villa specialist, and if you look at the per head price, they are actually not that expensive. For example, in a six-bedroom villa you could sleep 12 people. But there are also apartment-style hotels that come in at more of an entry level price, and some great hotel options too.”
One of Natalie’s top tips for agents is to suggest flying in and out of Tampa International airport. “There are direct flights from the UK to Tampa, it’s often cheaper than flying to Orlando and the airport is a lot less busy than Orlando too,” she advises. She suggests clients enjoy the theme parks first, which are around a two-hour drive from Tampa, but at the end of their holiday it will be just a 45-minute drive from Anna Maria Island back to Tampa.
The minimum length of stay differs depending on where customers stay on the island. In the centre and southern ends of Anna Maria Island, the areas known as Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, accommodation providers offer a minimum of four-nights’ stay, while Anna Maria at the northern tip of the island has a minimum stay of seven nights. Natalie normally encourages customers to stay for at least a week, explaining: “I’ve been to Anna Maria Island and spent seven days on the beach, which I could not recommend enough, especially if you've tagged it onto a trip to Orlando. I think people will be grateful for a slower pace of life. And if they’re going just for a beach break, then they need a bit of relaxation, and it’s so laid back there.”
She highlights how easy it is for holidaymakers to get around, and on Anna Maria Island customers can walk between many locations, use the free island trolley service or zip around in a golf cart. “Hiring a golf cart is the best way to get around and it’s easy to add to a booking, and some of the villas we offer come with golf carts or bikes.”
Natalie recommends clients also book a boat trip, where they are almost guaranteed to spot dolphins. Recalling one of her trips, she says: “When we went the dolphins were jumping in the waves behind the boat, it was incredible to watch. Our clients have also spotted manatees, and couples enjoy a sunset cruise, which they’ll be doing in the most beautiful setting you can imagine.”
Further information
Learn more about the Bradenton Area at bradentongulfislands.com
Go behind the scenes on the TTG Luxury Journey to the Bradenton Area
And discover more top tips for selling this jewel in the Gulf coast’s crown in the Visit Florida Selling Guide
