Here in Florida, summertime is not over until the weather hits 60. Families are still planning getaways, escaping the everyday hustle to try to have a little fun in the sun. The challenge is finding a place where parents with kids of all ages especially teenagers, get to enjoy their break. Not to worry, we have found a few solutions. 

As some of our beaches have been voted the best in the country, the ocean side is where it's at! Sirata Beach Resort prides itself on being a family-friendly hotel. When booking your stay, Sirata offers a few packages including rooms with a balcony, beach view and a great breakfast buffet at Compass Grille. You'll also find several options for adult recreation such as Harry's Beach Bar and Rum Runners Beachfront Bar & Grille. For juniors and teens, there's an Xbox gaming lounge, outdoor games like ping pong, a swimming pool and a toddler splash area for the little ones. We know teens are harder to please, which is why Suncoast Watersports LLC offers a discount to Sirata hotel guests where you can rent jet ski's, or get adventurous by parasailing. Teens love the amenities! Although the slogan displayed in their suites is to 'play more', it's a wonderful place to relax. The Sirata Beach staff is friendly and service-minded. You can expect a text from a staff member checking in on you to make sure you have everything you need while you're there. It's a great escape for those who want quality yet, an affordable getaway.  

The TradeWinds Island Grand Resort is also a perfect destination for a summer break. There are basically two resorts in one with the RumFish Beach Resort. At TradeWinds you'll enjoy a 15,000 square foot floating ocean water park. The slides are certainly a fun thrill for kids and adults. Mini golf and paddle boats are just a few of the options available to entertain the older kids. We also found the resort grounds are beautifully decorated gardens, which was perfect for an evening stroll. Not to forget, there are a variety of room types available for booking such as pet-friendly rooms including wet bars and kitchenettes, so you don't have to think twice when looking for a place to stay with younger children.  A kids club, a total of 14 restaurants, bars and lounges throughout the TradeWinds and Rumfish resorts, such as the Sharktooth Tavern are all the makings of a great family vacay! 

If there's another place you should also getaway to it's the Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Key. Located on the Clearwater Bay, the newly renovated Marriott is a great place for families of juniors and teens. A waterfall style pool and water sports rentals on site. Does it get any more fun? Here you can get a tan, eat, drink on the dock, and practically spend the entire day outside of your room. Nevertheless, the rooms are refreshingly comfortable, as having your morning coffee on the balcony overlooking the bay is memorable. The beach is an easy walk across the street, but if the sun is not what you're chasing there is a spa at the Marriott Suites, offering body wraps, facials and more. For local residents who need a stay-cation, this is the place to go where it feels like you're really away from home. 

Families can continue to enjoy summertime in Florida with a staycation that everyone will like. There's always a new place to discover! 

Register on 727area, your free local guide to things to do in Clearwater and St Pete

Cover photo courtesy of Unsplash, article photo courtesy of Tampaheadshots