Gulf Coast villa holidays - activities & sights

With more courses per capita than anywhere else in the world, Florida's Gulf Coast is a golfing heaven. It boasts courses designed by such famous names as Arnold Palmer, Robert Trent-Jones and Jack Nicklaus. There's a course to suit all, whether you prefer water hazards, fast or undulating greens, bunker hazards or clear open courses. The icing on the cake for golfers playing a round here is seeing the nature and wildlife of the region in its natural habitat.

The warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico mean that the fishing opportunities along the Gulf Coast are excellent all year round. Keen anglers can charter their own boats or join excursions run from most towns and resorts along the coast. The type of fish caught can vary according to conditions and season, but as a guide Grouper, Shark and Tarpon can be found.

The Gulf Coast of Florida is renowned for its stunning sandy beaches. Naples boasts a seven mile stretch of uncrowded sand lapped by the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The focal point of the seafront is the pier that extends out over the water. St Pete Beach has four miles of sands that extend further up the coast once you reach Clearwater. Watersports are popular here, and the famous pier is a focal point for views across Tampa Bay from the 5th-floor.