The year-round sun and warmth of Florida makes it the ideal destination any time of year you need a break. Before the kids head back-to-school this fall, enjoy a vacation full of sand, water, sun, and fun with loved ones. Head to Bradenton and the surrounding area, a Florida mainland destination that provides the ultimate experience in Florida beach vacations. There is a myriad of activities, both indoor and out, to build the perfect back-to-school vacation the students of the group will want to tell all their friends and teachers about.

Beaches

An escape to a beach location like Bradenton and the surrounding area means spending plenty of time on the beach, especially if you’re dreading the cooler temperatures of fall back home. There are a number of activities to keep everyone busy, on land and on the water.

Spread your beach blanket and plant your umbrella for some time in the shade near the water. Step out into the sun and sunbathe or change up your exercise routine with a walk or run on the beach.

Water Activities

If the waters of the Gulf seem to be calling your name, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in the water on a day at the beach. Swim in the waves of the Gulf or take a lesson or rent some gear for activities like parasailing, stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, and more.

Zip across the water on a jet ski or make a splash and explore below the waves on a snorkeling or SCUBA adventure. Take to the water for a fishing excursion, either to the depths of the Gulf or just casting a line from the shore.

Boat Tours

A great way to get to know the area you’ve decided to call home for a while is to get out and explore. While exploring on land is easy – just hop in your air-conditioned rental vehicle – get familiar with the surrounding waters, too. There is an array of companies that offer tours of the waters of Bradenton and the surrounding area.

Guides are full of information on area history, ecology, trivia, and more to add to your experience. Keep your camera ready and your eyes peeled for glimpses of sea life including dolphins, manatees, rays, and more! Book a private tour for you and your loved ones and pack a picnic. The air and water are a bit cooler out to sea, giving you a different experience than one closer to shore.

Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

The kids may hesitate at the word “museum” or “science” before heading back-to-school, but they’ll change their tune once they’re here. Head indoors, beat the lingering heat, and learn something new. Florida is brimming with some of nature’s best. From the beautiful scenery of the Gulf coast to inland lakes, from wildlife that live on land to the wildlife that live in the waters, Florida’s incredibly unique ecosystem is as enjoyable as it is educational.

Learn more about it when you head to the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. Formerly known as the South Florida Museum, there are permanent exhibits as well as a variety of rotating exhibits, so no two visits will ever be the same! Visit the manatee habitat where you can learn about manatee rehabilitation and meet the gentle giants or visit the planetarium for a show that illuminates the whole universe.

The Ringling

Art, history, circus memorabilia, gardens, a historic theater, and more come together for an unforgettable experience before heading back to school. You’ll be able to explore all that and more when you visit. The property preserves the legacy of John Ringling, one of the five brothers who formed the Ringling Brothers Circus, and his wife Mable.

Wander the property and visit the State Art Museum of Florida, two circus museums, an education center, the historic Ca’ d’Zan Mansion, Bayfront Gardens, and historic Asolo Theater. The number and variety of interesting venues will allow you to beat the heat if you need a break and explore the magic of the circus. The grounds and gardens are always free to visit. Admission to the Museum of Art is free on Mondays.

End of Summer Meets Beginning of School in Bradenton

Take a relaxing break before the chaos of a new school year. Whether the kids are heading to kindergarten or packing up to move into a college dorm, everyone needs a break before the big day.

Enhance your vacation and book a private vacation rental provided by Anchor Down Vacation Rentals. We offer units as small as one bedroom all the way up to eight bedrooms.

Make a home-cooked meal in your unit’s fully equipped kitchen and enjoy it in the spacious living/dining areas, or just relax in a private bedroom. Gather the group and watch your favorite movie or TV show. Enjoy beautiful Florida weather and spend some time outside on a private patio, deck, or balcony.

Contact us today!