A HOP, SKIP AND JUMP
FROM BRADENTON
by: Kelly Stilwell
There’s so much to do in Bradenton in the summer, but even those of us who live in paradise want to get away now and then. Whether you’re looking to take a day trip, get away for the weekend, or need a nice long vacation, we’ve got you! See our summer ideas for a Hop, Skip, and Jump from Bradenton!
A Hop
Did you know that in under two hours, you can be in the Manatee Capital of the World? There’s no place like Crystal River for getting an up-close look at these gentle giants. In fact, Crystal River is one of the few places in North America where you can legally swim with manatees in their natural habitat! Alongside local knowledgeable guides, you’ll get suited up with snorkel gear (wetsuits are available in the winter) and get in the water to view these beautiful sea cows in action.
(Photo Credit Destination Crystal River)
For those who would rather stay above the water, you can stand-up paddle board or kayak in the Homosassa River or Kings Bay. Rather not get in the water? You can also see the manatees from one of the boardwalks. However you like to explore, you can see manatees all year long at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge.
Though the Crystal River region has really become known for its manatee encounters in recent years, there’s a lot to do besides see the manatees. If outdoor adventure is on your list, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy.
Miles of hiking, biking, and even horseback riding trails will give you the chance to really see this beautiful destination on Central Florida’s Gulf Coast. Our summers might be hot, but you can cool off in our swimmable springs.
When hunger strikes, you’ll find restaurants, pubs, and bars serving up fresh seafood and other favorites. Try Wallace’s at the Greenhouse where the mouthwatering specials change weekly. If you’re lucky enough to be in town for one of their monthly wine pairings, you’re lucky enough! Tip: Reserve early!
For a quick, delicious, and fun to-go option, the Wild Sassa food truck has incredible fresh seafood like StoneCrab Chowda and shrimp tacos. Not a seafood fan? Try the beef steak tacos or one of their vegetarian options. Tip: Their menu changes and they often sell out, so don’t wait until the last minute!
Plantation on Crystal River is the perfect place to stay while you’re exploring this area. The Resort has a lagoon-style pool, dining, a spa, and a world-class golf course.
With so many reasons to visit Crystal River, add this to your list of local bucket-list-worthy destinations.
A Skip
Looking for a laid-back vacation vibe? St. Simon’s Island off the Georgia coast is calling your name.
Almost 10 years ago, this island town was named #1 Favorite Romantic Town as well as #1 Favorite Beach town by “Travel & Leisure.” Just five years ago, “Conde Nast Traveler’s” Readers’ Choice Awards ranked it #3 of The Best U.S. Islands. Asking yourself why you haven’t been there yet? That’s a great question!
St. Simon’s Island is the perfect getaway for families, with beautiful beaches and lots of outdoor fun. Kids will enjoy making sandcastles and playing in the waves. Head to the St. Simons Island Pier or hook up with a local charter company for fishing adventures.
Nearby Jekyll Island is home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center where kids and adults alike can learn about terrapins and their role in our marine ecosystem. With lots of interactive displays and even periodic turtle releases, a visit to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center makes for a fun afternoon.
When it’s time for nourishment, you’ll find a lot of choices. From the island-themed Gnat’s Landing to Georgia Sea Grill to upscale ECHO located on the property of the King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, you certainly won’t go hungry in this small town of many restaurants!
For accommodations, the King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort is a great choice. Whether you’re looking for family friendly fun, a romantic vacation, or even a golf getaway, the King and Prince has it all!
St. Simon’s Island is located off the Georgia coast, about a five-hour drive from Bradenton. Rather fly? Jacksonville is the closest airport, with a drive of about an hour and 20 minutes out to the island.
Jump
The barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina offer more activities than you could fit into a weeklong vacation, but you could try!
From the southern border of Virginia south to Ocracoke Island in North Carolina, this is the Outer Banks. These barrier islands are commonly referred to as OBX, and it’s 120 miles of pure bliss. With 5 million visitors per year, they must be doing something right!
From fun on the beach to kayaking and fishing, active travelers will love getting away to the Outer Banks. Though water activities are what OBX is known for, there’s so much more to explore!
History lovers will want to check out Battleship North Carolina, one of the most decorated battleships of World War II. You can actually take a self-guided tour of nine levels of this amazing piece of U.S history.
You can’t visit the Outer Banks without exploring Blackbeard’s coastal haunts. See where this infamous pirate lived and go on a ghost tour to learn more about his colorful adventures.
Everyone loves a lighthouse, and there are five to visit in the Outer Banks. Talk about a great Instagram post! Get the whole family in for a Christmas card-worthy shot!
All that exploring works up an appetite, and you’ll find so much deliciousness in OBX! With over 400 restaurants, where do you begin?
Start with breakfast at Sam and Omie’s in Nag’s Head. It’s worth the wait! For lunch or dinner, go for the views at Miller’s Waterfront. The fresh seafood can’t be beat!
In Kitty Hawk, TRiO is amazing, offering up charcuterie boards that are not only beautiful but perfectly paired for flavor. Ask your server to suggest a glass of wine, or order a flight to explore their many choices.
In Kill Devil Hills, dine on real North Carolina BBQ at Pigman’s Bar-B-Que, or check out the laid back atmosphere at Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar.
Looking for accommodations? The Sanderling Resort offers oceanfront luxury and is home to one of the most popular restaurants in town, the Lifesaving Station.
The Outer Banks is a very popular destination, so book your hotel or rental early!
Let us know your favorite place to Hop, Skip, or Jump from Bradenton. It may be featured in a future issue!
For more of Kelly’s articles visit: https://kellystilwell.com/