A man stood in the warm sand, watching a fishing line that floated in the aqua water. Nearby, a heron stood in the retreating surf and watched the man and his line. Nothing was biting, and no one seemed to care in this Florida secret waiting to be discovered.
“When you talk to people here, they say, ‘Don’t tell anyone about this place,’” the man, a vacationer from Barron County, Wisconsin, said with a smile.
Welcome to Manasota Key. I recently traveled to this little stretch of paradise, trading in a gray Wisconsin sky, frozen earth, and cold wind for picture-perfect sunsets, an endless sand beach, and a Gulf breeze that smelled like summer. Overshadowed by other Florida destinations, this island gem is a place you can make your own. The Manasota Key Resort was my base camp - the ideal place to stay on the island. Like the fisherman I met on the beach, I was in for a good time.
Editor's note: Our writer in Wisconsin escaped the state for a little bit of a reprieve from this winter's drear. This is his story.
Manasota Key is an 11-mile-long barrier island, separated from the mainland by the Intracoastal Waterway, and connected by a bridge. There are a lot of ways to get here. I flew into the Fort Myers Airport and departed via the Sarasota Airport.
When I arrived, I knew I was somewhere special. The front desk at Manasota Key Resort is just steps from the water – and the Lemon Bay Market. The market serves fast and delicious food, as well as cold beer and wine that you can enjoy at one of the patio tables, or by a fire pit.
Once you're checked in, head to the beach. The island offers some spectacular Florida sunsets on the Gulf side. When the sun dips below the crashing waves, you might hear someone down the beach blowing a celebratory honk through a conch shell.
But I did not sleep in. The great thing about the island is that it also offers some great Florida sunrises – just walk over to the Lemon Bay side. I photographed this bird right on the resort’s grounds.
It’s a relaxing way to spend time on a Florida beach, and there’s a lot of ground to cover. Look around and you'll be sure to find one.
The island is also home to a lot of wildlife. At night, the outdoor lights cast a warm amber glow – it’s a strategy to protect the sea turtles that nest here.
This stretch of Florida water is home to manatees and dolphins, but not many people. I found my own Florida secret waiting to be discovered. And there, I watched the sun rise from the beach.
But if you feel like enjoying some company, you can also find that in Manasota Key. There are some lively Florida dining spots on the island that offer great seafood, live music and cold drinks.
I had lunch at the Beachcomber and sat close to the water. I had to make sure I didn’t lean back too far, or I’d end up dining with the dolphins!
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The resort has kayaks and bikes that you can use for free, and the chef in your group will find a well-equipped outdoor kitchen that’s complete with a pizza oven.
If you’re an angler, great inshore fishing can be had right from the dock, and there are also slips available if you want to tie up a boat. You can find beach supplies at the market; or you can pick them up at home before you visit.
While I felt far from home, I felt completely at home at the resort. When you see the resort’s corn-hole games, you’ll get a clue to the vibe: Manasota Key Resort is decidedly unpretentious, and it caters to people who want to relax on their own terms.
One of the best things about a resort like this is that you don’t have to do anything.
It’s why that fisherman really didn’t care that the fish weren’t biting – it’s perfect here, and it could be your secret.
I’m already looking forward to a return trip - I miss those Gulf waters! The weather on Manasota Key is pretty wonderful any time of the year. If you have flexibility, months like May and December can be great times to visit Manasota Key - it’s a little quieter, so you’ll have the biggest selection of accommodations. Book early to secure the perfect place, and make it your Florida secret waiting to be discovered. Learn more about Manasota Key Resort on Hotels.com.
Disclosure: I was invited to this location by Manasota Key Resort, with expenses covered. However, all opinions and thoughts expressed in this piece are my own.
Florida can be quite overlooked in the wintertime, except for those trying to escape winter elsewhere. Just because we don't get buckets of freshly fallen snow to wake up to on Christmas morning doesn't mean we don't get into the holiday spirit in Florida. The only difference is that maybe we need to take our holly jolly adventure indoors instead. Every year, Gaylord Palms Resort & Water Park in Florida turns into a winter wonderland of fun, and this year is no different. When it comes to the best holiday resorts in Florida, Gaylord Palms Resort is an obvious choice. Not only can you go snow tubing indoors, but you'll also be able to spend the night inside the Christmas-themed hotel in Florida and enjoy all the fun and festivities the next day, too.
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Every year, the Gaylord Palms Resort & Water Park in Florida transforms into a magical holiday wonderland. We’re talking more than three million holiday lights, and that’s just on the outside.
This hotel is world-renowned for the Christmas magic it introduces every year, bringing back some old holiday favorites while also incorporating new and exciting festivities. Guests have the opportunity to reserve a room and stay the night. Our recommendation? Try an Atrium-view room so you can fall asleep and wake up to the magic!
First things first, head on over to the Snow Factory to kick off the indoor winter magic. Guests can race down the snow-tubing mountain dubbed Snow Flow Mountain to see who makes it down the fastest. Then, stop and toss snowballs at targets at Snowball Build and Blast. Fun fact: did you know this tubing slide is made entirely of ice? Of course, that's only the beginning of this holly, jolly adventure.
Speaking of ice, this year marks the return of ICE!, a themed tradition that incorporates man-made ice sculptures that are as spectacular as you can imagine. Master artisans work for weeks in advance, expertly sculpting countless blocks of ice to create a veritable winter wonderland. It's an immersive experience, and if you've never experienced the holidays at Gaylord Palms, you'll want to put this at the very top of your bucket list.
This year, ICE! features Elf™ with mind-blowing artisan ice sculptures throughout. It's something that simply must be seen to be believed. The ice masterpieces are carved with precision and feature brightly colored ice telling the story of this famed holiday classic.
Make sure you make it to the market, too, in case you need to finish up some last-minute holiday shopping. You can reserve your spot today to get in on all of the fun. Looking for even more winter fun? You can enjoy indoor snow tubing, a themed ice wonderland, and a resort hotel stay all at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando.
Early morning Lake Eola Park during the Christmas holiday season in Downtown Orlando, Florida, USA.
Have you ever stayed at this Christmas-themed hotel in Florida before? Did you go snow tubing? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or, if you are looking for more information about how to spend the night here, including availability and nightly rates, then visit the Gaylord Palms Resort & Water Park website or the Gaylord Palms Resort & Water Park Facebook page.
Winter in Florida is a truly underrated experience. But as you can tell, there's so much to enjoy, from Christmas resorts to dazzling light shows and endless activities for the entire family. If you'd like to dive into even more Florida fun, be sure to take a look at our list of fun winter activities and adventures in Florida.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
