Sanctuary - Longboat Key Condos December 2009

Behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club, condos at the Sanctuary comprise 5 buildings right on the Gulf of Mexico.  These buildings were constructed from 1989 to 1991. Many owners of Gulf-front condos at the Sanctuary enjoy balconies with incredible views of the beach and the Gulf waters.

Top amenities are provided to owners at the Sanctuary which include: Olympic size pool and spa, two Har-Tru tennis courts, private beach, fitness center, Club House, 24 hr security.

Currently in the Sarasota MLS data, 9 condos are active listings at Sanctuary. Prices range from $849,000 for a 1,823 sq.ft. condo to $2,995,000 for a luxury condo on Longboat Key with over 3,000 sq.ft.  Two condos with listings prices over a million are under contract.  One condo listed at $1,595,000 sold for $1,300,000 in the last six months.

For more information on Longboat Key condos or specific information about Sanctuary units, please contact Annette Smith at 941-504-3922. Send an email, Annette answers promptly.  Our main website provide current Sarasota real estate information, and we are happy to answer your real estate questions.  If you need a rental, we can refer you to a rental expert too.

Related Articles:

Sanctuary - Longboat Key Condos Update

Embroidered Beach Towels

The beach towel is one of the most under estimated accessories you own. Have you ever gone to the beach or the pool without one? No place to lay, no way to dry off and if you do find some place clean enough to lay down then it is probably too hot to be comfortable. Without a good towel your trip quality goes downhill, but finding the perfect beach towel is easier said than done.

In many design houses you are also offered the option of having your monogram embroidered on to the hand towel alongside the logo or name of the designer. This is a really fanciful look and one that guests will comment on. When buying your hand towels it of the up most importance to think how these beautiful little hand drying fabrics will be displayed or hung. If you are going for the monogrammed option you may favor placing the towels on a towel rack besides the sink or alternatively on a window sill above the sink, ensuring the towel is folded in a way to show off the embroidered beach towels.


There are different selections for beach bags that can make a perfect gift for your wedding girls. One popular choice are personalized tote bags. Consider a Summer Stripes Personalized Beach Bag, a bag fashioned from bold stripes in chocolate brown and mint green and patterned to utilized today's color trend - with your girls' big embroidered beach towels initials. Or perhaps a Personalized Beachcomber Tote, a perfect bridesmaid's gift to carry for a destination wedding or a beach-themed bachelorette party. This can make a fun in the sun wedding party or family outing for your girls, where they can carry bottled water, sunscreen lotion, towels and flip flops in one stylish tote bag. Then have it personalized with their name or initials that they'll surely adore!

Longboat Key Club Condos - Behind the Gates

Facing the Gulf of Mexico is a row of Longboat Key condos located behind the gates of the prestigious Longboat Key Club.  Some of these condominiums have outstanding views of the Gulf.  In various buildings owners also have views of the downtown Sarasota skyline and Sarasota Bay for a premium price, of course!

Visitors are always greeted with a smile when they stop at the guard gate.  Viewing Longboat Key condos is always a pleasure at this elegant resort.  If you are shopping for condos in this area, you need a real estate agent to make appointments to enter a building should it be on your list of dream condos. The well maintained golf course is on the right as you drive through the beautifully landscaped resort. Wildlife such as ducks, egrets and heron are full-time residents of this Longboat Key community.

A few of the most popular buildings behind the gates of Longboat Key: Sanctuary, Longboat Key Towers, Beaches, Privateer.

Residents behind the gates can walk right out to the beach for long walks, enjoy water activities, fishing and swimming too. Tennis courts are part of the amenities at many of the buildings, as well as spas and exercise centers.  Contact the Longboat Key Club about golf memberships.

The Sarasota MLS shows more than 425 Longboat Key condos for sale including villas, townhouses, boat docks and timeshare units. For a availability in any of these luxury buildings behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club, call Annette Smith at 941-504-3922 or for any other Longboat Key condo information.

Active Listings from the Sarasota MLS

Sanctuary
11 condos for sale, prices range from $849,000-$2,995,000

L'Ambiance
5 condos for sale, prices range from $$1,675,000-$2,795,000

Regent Place
2 condos for sale, prices range from $2,695,000-$3,450,000

Longboat Key Towers
5 condos for sale, prices range from $699,999-$1,699,000

Beaches
6 condos for sale, prices from $425,000-$1,595,000

Privateer
5 condos for sale, prices from $449,000-$695,000

If you want us to make appointments for you to view any Longboat Key condos, please call us when you make your travel plans if you live out of town as our schedules fill quickly. Many Longboat Key condos require more than 24 hours notice to show so appointments need to be made well in advance of showings.

Related Article

Longboat Key Condos Behind the Gates of the Longboat Key Club

Water Club Condos on Longboat Key Update

Our November 2008, Water Club report, highlighted 12 Longboat Key condos available at Water Club in the Sarasota MLS.

Water Club is located along Longboat Key's prestigious Gulf of Mexico Drive and is positioned along the shores of the Gulf. This condominium provides outstanding amenities and excellent concierge services to its owners as well as part-time residents. With one of the most beautiful and efficient Club Houses, residents and guests experience the high-end luxury including an elegant entrance for entertaining, library, game room, fitness center and ballroom for larger functions.

Currently there are 17 condos for sale at Water Club priced from $900,000 to $3,400,000. There are two sales pending and in the last six months 7 condos have sold with selling prices ranging from $1,100,000 to $3,000,000.

Residents enjoy the beach, swimming, fishing, boating and tennis. St. Armands Circle and downtown Sarasota are short drives for shopping, cutural activities and dining.

For more Sarasota FL real estate information on Longboat Key condos, contact John Allen at 941-544-6467 or Annette Smith at 941-504-3922.

October 2009 Longboat Key Condo Market Snapshot

October 2009 Longboat Key Condo Market Snapshot

The Longboat Key real estate market has been brisk with activity as savvy buyers are taking advantage of reduced prices on very desirable condominium residents. For those on the fence, there is still a nice selection of inventory in all price ranges.

Longboat Key Condominium Inventory and Sales

Current Inventory

• Active Listings: 395*
  
• Highest Priced Condo: $5,000,000 (Bleu Claire)


• Lowest Priced Condo: $145,000


• Average Listing Price: $876,903


• Median Listing Price: $599,000


• Average Days on Market: 332

Condos Under Contract

• Pending Sales: 49*


• Highest Priced: $1,695,000 (Water Club)


• Average Listing Price: $522,063


• Median Listing Price: 410,000

Recently Sold Condos (last 90 Days)

• Condominiums Sold: 65*


• Highest Sale Price: $2,200,000 (Water Club)


• Lowest Sale Price: $185,000


• Average Sale Price: $575,982


• Median Sale Price: $$450,000

**Includes Condos, townhomes, and villas

Contact John Allen or Annette Smith if you are interested in exploring current opportunities in the Longboat Key condo market.

Islander Club - Longboat Key Condos

Islander Club Condos- Gulf of Mexico Beachfront on Longboat Key

Sales are heating up on Longboat Key especially for beachfront condos. Longboat Key condos have been popular for decades but with the bottoming of a downward turn in Sarasota real estate, buyers are back in the fray. Some are just looking but Sandy Whitehead and I were lucky enough to have a wonderful couple from Michigan enter the fray. We just closed on a two bedroom, two bath condo penthouse at Isander Club.

Islander Club is composed of two condominium buildings. Onsite management is available to answer questions of guests and owners. The staff is excellent and residents and owners alike are pleased with their efforts.

These Longboat Key condos offer a "owner to owner" free rental program. The program is available for owners who are bring family to Islander Club for vacations. Visitors and residents enjoy the many amenities of this Longboat Key condo: Olympic heated pool, 2-Har-Tru tennis courts, fitness center which overlooks the Gulf of Mexico, two saunas. activity/party room, library and billards. You can walk to Publix, CVS & Banking from this convenient location on the Key. Pets are not permitted here.

The Sarasota MLS shows 10 Islander Club condos for sale on Longboat Key for sale. To take a look at Islander Club condos or any other Longboat Key condos, call Annette Smith at 941-504-3922.

Sarasota MLS Data

Islander Club
10 condos for sale, prices from $439,000-$890,000

2 condos have sold in the last six months for $470,000 and $610,000

Many Longboat Key Club condos require 24 hours notice to show so please let us get on our showing schedule as quickly as possible after planning a trip to Sarasota. If you are shopping for a condo at Islander Club, give us a call to set an appointment for you to enter one of these Islander Club condos.

Longboat Key Condos - Update

Longboat Key Condos - Update

Data below includes condos, villas, town houses, timeshares and boat docks.

Condos for Sale on Longboat Key

July 2009 Condo Activity for Longboat Key

Active Listings in 34228 Zip Code:

423 Condos for sale priced from $48,995 (boat rack) to $5,000,000

Pending Listings:

55 condos are under contract - list prices range from $165,000 to $5,000,000

July Sales:

23 condos closed from $97,000 to $2,700,000

In the last six months Longboat Key condos have seen accelerated activity. Over 100 condos have sold priced from $97,000 to over $3 million. Pending sales as well as properties closed are on the rise while buyers try to find the best value as the real estate market in Sarasota Florida corrects.

Click the highlighted link for the more information about Longboat Key amenities and search for Longboat Key condos for sale homes, villas and waterfront properties and search for active listings at Beachplace, Seaplace, Fairway Bay, Beaches or Sanctuary.

If a Sarasota condo buyer is looking for luxury and waterfront views of the Gulf of Mexico, Water Club, L Ambinance and Positano offer outstanding properties with direct Gulf views. The best amenities are available at all these Longboat Key condos. Choose from Gulfside swimming pool and spa, tennis courts, exquisite clubhouse, fitness center, private beach access.

In our November, 2008 Longboat Key condos report, there were over 400 Longboat Key condos for sale listed in the Sarasota MLS.

Contact Annette at 941-504-3922 for the highest of Internet exposure for if you wish to sell your Longboat Key property. Our multiple websites and creative marketing strategy positions your Sarasota MLS listing internationally. Email Annette with your questions or to ask for an appointment.

Gulf vs Bay for a Condo on Longboat Key

Most of our customers searching for a Longboat Key condo start out looking for Gulf front. Slogans like "life's a beach" have added to the allure of owning a beachfront palace. Longboat Key is such a special place that beach or bay, it really doesn't matter. The view of Sarasota Bay are just as spectacular as the view of the Gulf of Mexico -- sometimes even better. Sunrise and sunsets can be enjoyed everywhere on Longboat Key!

Gulf front, you can stick your toes in the sand right out your door. On the Bay, many Longboat Key condos have deeded access to the beach which is a short drive from your condo. At Bay Isles, as a member of the Beach Club, there is card coded gated access to the Beach Club where picnic tables, rest rooms and showers are available.

At night the Gulf side is very dark, the Bay side twinkles with the lights of passing boats on the waterway and downtown Sarasota shines in the distance.


Your choices are great right now for a condo on Longboat Key. The Sarasota MLS currently reports over 400 condos for sale on Longboat Key with prices ranging from $155,000 for a tiny one bedroom condo to $5,000,000 for a Gulf front condo.


Condo Options Gulf-Front Longboat Key

Bleu Claire

Water Club

En Provence

Positano

Vizcaya

Seaplace

Beachplace

Condo Option Bayfront Longboat Key

Tangerine Bay

Grand Bay

Bay Harbor

Marina Bay

If you need help searching for a Gulf or Bay condo on Longboat Key, call Annette Smith at 941-504-3922 or email for a prompt reply. We show properties on Longboat Key regularly and are ready to assist you with smooth real estate transaction.

Privateer - Longboat Key Condos Update

Privateer Behind the Gates of the Longboat Key Club

In February, we wrote a blog article about Longboat Key condos behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club. Privateer was one of the condos we mentioned in that article.

Privateer is composed of two condominium buildings. Onsite management is available to answer questions, and guest of owners are delighted by the personal attention of the management staff in these two buildings.

From the minute you enter the guarded gate the friendliness of these Longboat Key condos is apparent. Owners, realtors and other visitors are greeted with a smile and directions to Privateer and other condos behind the private gated community.

If you are shopping for a condo at Privateer, give us a call to set an appointment for you to enter Privateer for a showing. Privateer residents enjoy long walks on the beach, participating in water activities, throwing in a line for the catch of the day and taking a dip in the Gulf of Mexico surf. Privateer has tennis courts as part of its amenities ***.

The Sarasota MLS shows 4 Privateer condos for sale on Longboat Key. To make an appointment to see one of the units available at Privateer or any other Longboat Key condos behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club, call Annette Smith at 941-504-3922 or for any other Sarasota condo information.

Sarasota MLS Data

Privateer
4 condos for sale, prices from $399,000-$699,000

2 condos are under contract

2 condos have sold in the last six months for $400,000 and $770,000

If you want planning a trip to Sarasota to view Longboat Key Club condos, please call us when you make your travel plans so we can add you to our showing schedule. Many Longboat Key condos require more than 24 hours notice to show.

Photos Copyrighted by Annette Ashley Smith

I love Caneel Bay

Racking up quite a few awards and recommendations throughout its existence, the Caneel Bay resort arguably offers low key luxury at its best. Perhaps that’s why it’s been a favorite of discerning travelers for decades now. Hailed as the first eco-resort in the Caribbean, Caneel Bay was the brainchild of millionaire Laurance S. Rockefeller, who conceived the idea for the property in the mid-1950's. It’s found on the glorious island of St John, which is one of the main United States Virgin Islands. Since two-thirds of St John has been dedicated as a U.S. National Park, those seeking the great outdoors on their USVI vacation will certainly find plenty of nature here. According to some, St John is the prettiest of the United States Virgin Islands, and when you choose to stay at the Cannel Bay St John resort, you’ll be enjoying not only a beautiful setting, but also an exceedingly fun and relaxing time.


One of the best attributes of Caneel Bay is its location. An exclusive resort, Caneel Bay offers a pristine setting with no less than 7 staggering beaches to choose from. Since the resort is found within the Virgin Islands National Park, guests can feel free to properly disconnect themselves from the hectic world they’ve likely left behind. With 170 lush acres on hand, there seems little end to the amount of exploration that Caneel Bay guests can enjoy, and when it’s time to refuel, the resort’s excellent cuisine surely hits the spot. Dine at the elegant Turtle Bay Estate House, and you’ll not only savor the sumptuous food, but also the inspiring views out over the peninsula. Perhaps in the afternoon you’ll be up for a nice cocktail or cup of tea on the Turtle Bay Estate terrace. For those looking to enjoy something a bit more action-packed, there are plenty of other things to get into at the Caneel Bay St John resort as well.


As mentioned earlier, seven glorious beaches can be taken advantage of by those staying at the Caneel Bay resort. Regardless of which Caneel Bay beach you choose, you can expect coconut palms and seagrape trees for shade, soft white sand for comfort, and rich blue-green water to round everything out. Chances are good that your experience at a Caneel Bay beach will be an ideal one. Perhaps you’ll just be up for sunbathing, or maybe you’ll grab some complimentary snorkeling gear to see what lies beneath the sea’s surface. An introductory scuba clinic is offered in the rates as a Caneel Bay package bonus, so if you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at scuba diving, the Caneel Bay St John resort is an excellent place to get started. There are also kayaks and small sailboats available to guests free of charge, as well as a list of other complimentary services. If you have room in the budget, there are also scores of activities here to enjoy at an additional charge. They include sailing trips, guided snorkeling tours, tours of St John, power boat rentals, and scuba diving instruction, to name a few.

Of course, if you’re thinking of arranging a Caneel Bay vacation, you might be wondering about the resort’s rooms. There are 166 guest units to choose from at Caneel Bay, and they are spread out over much of the resort’s lush grounds. Each guest room is luxuriously decorated, being mindful of not going way over the top. Hand-crafted furniture, premium fabrics, and native stonework are just some of the added touches that make the Caneel Bay guest rooms so wonderful. Air-conditioning and ceiling fans are standard amenities throughout, but you won’t find any televisions or telephones in the rooms here. No sir, you’re here to unwind and leave it all behind. The rooms here are exceedingly comfortable, though, and since they are equipped with coffee makers, bathrobes, safes, mini-bars, free bottled water, bath products, and more, you’ll certainly enjoy a sufficient amount of modern conveniences. Outside of the rooms, there are telephone pavilions for guests to use, so if you should need to make some calls to arrange tours or things the like, you will be able to do so.

There are different room choices available for those planning a Caneel Bay vacation, and arguably, the 5 rooms in Cottage #7 are the most desirable. You’ll hardly be upset whichever room you choose, though, especially since you’ll likely be spending quite a bit of time outside your quarters. There are a dozen tennis courts on-hand if you like to play, and as mentioned, you can enjoy a number of activities at a Caneel Bay Beach. There is a children’s center that can come in quite handy if you are traveling with kids, and the fitness center and pool are ideal spots to spend some down time. If you can’t make it over to St Croix for a tour of the Cruzan Rum Distillery, you might entertain the notion of attending a rum-tasting demonstration at Caneel Bay. There’s just so much to talk about when it comes to the Caneel Bay St John resort. So plan your Caneel Bay vacation today, and see firsthand why it’s easily one of the top United States Virgin Islands resorts. As a side note, most guests at Caneel Bay fly first into the island of St Thomas. There is a Caneel Bay reception area at the St Thomas airport, and from there you’ll be transported via bus and ferry to the resort on St John.

by : destination360.com

Best Mediterranean Beaches for Family Fun

If you are planning a family getaway to Europe and you love the beach, perhaps Mediterranean beaches are the best option for you. The Mediterranean Sea divides Europe from Africa and makes the boundary for over a dozen nations such as Greece, Italy, France, and Spain. Countries like Israel, Egypt, Morocco, and Cyprus are pretty popular with the tourists and showcase the Mediterranean's exotic beaches.

Nature lovers say that the Mediterranean is not just a place but in fact it is a state of mind. The mild climate in the Mediterranean and its hot dry summers makes for perfect beach weather. The deep blue waters are accentuated with the warm hospitality of the Mediterranean people who are well known as being passionate with a real zest for life.

The best time to visit the Mediterranean is between the fall and spring. If you are planning your holidays for August, be sure to make the arrangements way in advance. This is because the coastal towns are often full with vacationing Europeans during this time.

Italy, France and Corsica have some of the most beautiful beaches in this area. Cannes is one of the best-known cities of the French Riviera and is well-known for its sandy beaches which are animated all year round. You can expect to see people sunbathing and swimming right through the winter months. There are lots of private beach clubs where you can eat or rent a lounger for the day and at either end there are public beaches, and a municipal beach where you can rent deck chair and watch the world go by.

Corsica is an Island and is sophisticated, flashy, and perhaps among the best places in the Mediterranean for water sports. Corsica's 600 miles coastline comprises a number of secluded coves and deserted shores. St Restitude, located near Calvi north-west, is best for a peaceful hideaway. It has a secluded small beach with clean water, soft sand, and adorable pine woods in plenty. There is also Palombaggia Beach, Golfe di Sogno Beach, and Santa-Giulia Beach near the couth-east Porto-Vecchio, an upmarket resort town situated on a rocky hill. The town is very popular among the tourists for its beaches, cafes, restaurants, yacht marina, lively streets, and a wide range of accommodation. The best beach in this town is Palombaggia Beach, a perfect crescent of white sand that is sandwiched between the blue sea and dune clusters.

One of best beaches in Italy is Terracina, situated at 1.5 hours south-west of Rome towards Naples. The Terracina beach is among the best beaches on Italy's mainland and is very long, wide with plenty of soft sand to offer its visitors. Cap de Begur, situated nearly 40 mins from Girona offers plentiful Spanish culture both old and new together with a collection of beautiful small beaches such as Aiguablava, the nudist (families beware) L'Illa Roja, and the family-oriented Llanfranc and Platja de Raco.

you can find great ideas for family beach vacations and family travel in Europe.

Banzai Pipeline - One of World's Best Surfing Beaches

Banzai Pipeline is the world's most spectacular tubular wave found in the North Shore of Oahu. It is the tube that every expert surfer of shooting that when surfers compete for the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, they'd patiently wait for days and weeks for the sea to curl into the world's most challenging surf reef break.

To view the waves, locals and tourists have to go to the home of the Banzai Pipeline: the Ehukai Beach Park. Ehukai Beach Park is located on Ke Nui Road off Kamehameha Highway in front of the Sunset Elementary School. Ehukai, which means "reddish tinged water" in Hawaiian, is a white sand beach is fronted by an acre of green grass and shady trees.

Because of its world-famous , the 1.2 acre Ehukai Beach Park gets hordes of visitors especially during winter months.

Spectators, journalists, and photographers crowd the beach as well to watch the surfers ride the world's most dangerous waves.

The beach's pounding waves are for experts only; inexperienced surfers and swimmers have to wait for spring and summer waves to enjoy the waves over the sandbar. Even in summer, however, the waves breaking near the shore and the rip currents are something that swimmers have to negotiate.

Services and amenities: lifeguards, restrooms, showers, parking, picnic areas and tables, phones

5 unique things about Ehukai Beach Park

• Banzai Pipeline got its name in 1961 when surfing movie producer Bruce Brown stopped at the yet-unnamed surf site up Ehukai Beach Park. Coincidentally, a pipeline was being constructed on nearby Kamehameha Highway. California surfer Mike Diffenderfer who was with Brown at the time suggested to name the wave Pipeline. The name was first used in Brown's fourth movie, Surfing Hollow Days. Since the beach that fronted the pipeline was then known as Banzai Beach, Banzai was appended to Pipeline; hence the compound name Banzai Pipeline.
• Ehukai Beach Park is the home of the world's hardest and deadliest surf break, the Banzai Pipeline. More people (surfers and even photographers) have higher statistics of death or serious injury than in any other surf spot.
• Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, the world's greatest and most challenging surfing competition, is held here.
• Ehukai Beach Park covers three areas: the Ehukai Beach, Banzai, and Pipeline.
• The sub-plot of the Hollywood film "Blue Crush" starring Kate Bosworth was about shooting the Pipeline.

Book your Hawaii resort and come to enjoy Banzai Pipeline and other Hawaii Attractions.

Best Family Beach Vacations in Anguilla

If it is your first visit to Anguilla, you are bound to be surprised by the level of hospitality the tiny island with a population of a mere 12,000 people will offer you. The number of Anguillions is undoubtedly small, but their hearts are big and smiles welcoming. The island is popular for its tranquility and has every natural ingredient to make you feel how beautiful life is when you're in nature's lap.

Anguilla is renowned for its beaches. Its 35-mile coastline has over 33 beaches, of which, many rank among the best in the Caribbean. The beauty of the soft white sand sloping calmly into the shallow blue waters is breathtaking. What is special about the island is the fact that it has beaches of a wide variety to suit individual preferences. There are beaches that are quiet and secluded, some others that are busier, some ideal for a romantic walk, and some that are coves specially designed for snorkeling, diving, and conducting romantic picnics. All these beaches are serene and spectacular, with cleanliness all around. The most spectacular sight is that of the saltwater ponds that shelter snowy egrets and great blue herons.

Standards of accommodation in Anguilla are very high, and so is the famous gourmet cuisine's quality. There are plenty of hotels on the island specializing in offering a luxurious stay. One also has a variety of options in budget accommodations to choose from.

Here are some resorts we recommend for family vacations in Anguilla:

Malliouhana Hotel & Spa
Arawak Beach Inn
La Sirena Hotel
Carimar Beach Club
Rendezvous Bay Hotel & Villas
Shoal Bay Villas

If you are traveling with younger kids, you may want to primarily focus on hotels that offer an organized children's program or babysitting. Or if you're vacationing in Anguilla with kids that are older, you might want to pay particular attention to hotels that provide a game room or arcade, and also offer outdoor activities like a swimming pool, water sports, and tennis. No matter what amenities are important for your family, Anguilla has a resort that will be perfect for your family beach vacation.

Interestingly, no visitor can get lost in the island, as there is only one main road, aptly called the Main Road. This road branches off beautifully to bays and beaches that nature lovers, swimmers, divers, and sun worshippers are mesmerized with, and would never want to leave.

St John USVI - Some of the Most Beautiful Beaches in the World

St John USVI is the smallest of the three US Virgin Islands. Its sister islands are St Thomas and St Croix. The exotic beaches here are unique among the beaches of the Caribbean and the world.

The island is only nine miles long and three miles wide and two thirds of the island is the Virgin Islands National Park and therefore protected by the USA Park Rangers.

But, most of the tourists arrive in St John for its beaches. They are unspoiled and surrounded by pristine waters touching the while sand beaches.

It is located to the east of St Thomas on a 20 minute ride by ferry from Red Hook to Cruz Bay in St John. Coming from St Thomas that is populated and very busy, you will notice that you arrived to a place totally the opposite, St John is laid back, relaxed and the calm can be felt all over.

Beaches

• Trunk Bay

This is one of the most famous destinations in the Virgin Islands. It is located about two miles from Cruz Bay. It is a hearth shaped spectacular beach. This beach has visitor's facilities, like showers, changing areas, restrooms, food area, as well as picnic facilities.

The white powdered sands are surrounded on one side by coconut pal trees and on the other side by crystal clear blue waters.

When visiting Trunk Bay pay a visit to the Archaeological dig where many prehistoric artifacts were found. You'll see remnants of bones and plant material.

This is an ideal beach for Family Vacations, since the place is children friendly with many water sports and calm waters. And at the same time very popular with groups of cruise lines passengers, that like to spend the day here.

Trunk Bay is easily accessible by public bus, taxi or car; there is a scenic ferry ride across Pillsbury Sound to St. John.

• Cinnamon Bay

Larger than Trunk Bay, this beach offers beautiful jungle like surroundings, featuring mango and cacao trees, as well as great underwater life and water sports.

It is located three miles distance of Cruz Bay on North Shore Road. The beach is great for kayaking, windsurfing, snorkeling, diving or swimming through flagrant corals and colorful tropical fish. You will also find here all facilities for visitors like changing rooms, showers, lockers and a local restaurant. There are also facilities for picnics and family reunions.

• Salt Pond Bay

This is a fairly unknown beach along the southern coast of the island. It features a salt pond where locals take salt from. The salt is formed from sea water that enters the pond via subterranean tunnels. Once the water evaporates it leaves a white foamy residue of sea salt.

• Blue Cobblestone Beach

This beach gets its name from the cobblestones along the beach. It is great for a snorkeling adventure along the large rocks. This area is also renowned for bird watching because the area is more secluded and the birds abound here.

• Caneel Bay

Cannel Bay is am idyllic resort area. The beaches are made of powdered white sands great for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling.

To get there you will take a ferry from St Thomas provided by the resort and dock in their private pier. Or if you are already on the island you'll take route 20 and turn left where the sign tells you to get to the beach.

• Hawksnest Beach

This beach is very accessible and popular among locals in St John. It is a short drive from Cruz Bay. The parking for this beach is very close to the sea, making it very easy to carry all you need for a great beach day.

They have all facilities for picnics and barbeques. The corals and tropical fish here are incredibly beautiful. Some of the fish you'll find here are the grunt, fry and goatfish. Your entire family will love the scene under the sea regardless of age.

• Maho Bay

This beach offers a lot to families with small children and those who like calm and shallow waters for swimming.

You can get to this beach going past Cinnamon Bay one more mile. You may park below one of the maho Trees and enjoy your day. There are no signs or parking spots, just plain beach. The road is lined by coconut palm trees.

The snorkeling between Maho Beach and Little Maho is great. You'll enjoy and array of tropical fish and exotic coral reefs.

Salomon Beach, St John

It used to be a Nude Beach, but since the new legislation on public nudity, this is no longer possible. Those breaking the law may get fines of hundreds of dollars and even jail time.

It has become a family beach, but it is accessible only by boat or by hiking through a guided trail. This trail is one of many provided by the authorities.

The waters are calm and shallow in Salomon Beach and the coral reefs are spectacular. This is a great place for beginning snorkelers. The reefs between Salomon Beach and Honeymoon Bay are unique.

Villas or Resorts

You will find in St John accommodation for any budget and two luxury resorts. You can find here a large variety of restaurants offering Continental and Caribbean Cuisine and many bars offering entertainment featuring the best musicians attracted to St John.

There are million dollar villas that are available for rent through local agents. These villas offer all amenities expected by those looking for a deluxe vacation including concierge and maid services.

A visit to St John in the American Virgin Islands is an unforgettable experience. You'll be happy you came.

Getting the Best Deals on Miami Beach Condos

Settling down in Miami Beach requires a residential unit that will fit your specification of a family home. Considering that the city is a hodgepodge of cultures, you can practically see dozens of different architectural designs available that will suit your taste.

One of the most sought after residential properties in Miami Beach are the condominiums. These luxurious homes are prized among the rest considering the functionality and the convenience of having one for your very own. Despite the fact that Miami Beach condos are quite expensive to acquire, as compared to other residential units like single-family homes or apartments, having one under your name is a big change in regards to your daily upkeep and lifestyle.

Finding The Right One

If you want to maximize your condo acquisition, you need to decide on several factors that will determine its usefulness for your needs. First, you need to do a little research regarding the prices of condominiums in Miami Beach. Though most of them are quite expensive for your taste, some of these residential complex do exists that providers lower rates than the rest.

Aside from the price, you need to look into the different amenities and facilities in a condo unit so that you can decide on which one would be perfect for your needs. Take into consideration the amenities of each unit, like the number of rooms, floor area, furniture and fixtures, and so on. Check also the available facilities that you will jointly own with the rest of the residents, such as swimming pools, housekeeping staff, security and privacy features, entertainment and recreational facilities, and so on.

The Status Of The Miami Beach Real Estate Market

If you want to purchase these luxury units at the lower price, then you need to keep a close eye on the real estate market of Miami Beach. We can never deny the fact that the prices of assorted residential units fluctuate depending on the status of the real estate market, as well as the demands and availability of these units for acquisition.

You might want to exercise a little bit of patience and wait until the prices of condo units in Miami Beach is at its lowest. You can consult a real estate agent to get the info you need, or hire their services to look for a Miami Beach condo that will fit your budget.

Considering that the real estate market of Miami Beach is currently recovering from the effects of the housing crisis that hit the entire U.S. You can safely say that the market will be returning to normal in a few years time, but the demand for such commodities is high considering that the prices are still lower compared to the market boom in the last decade.

Swansea - Britain's Best Beach

Swansea, fondly called Copperpolis, is situated on the sandy South West Wales coast.

Bounded by Swansea Bay and the Bristol Channel to the south, you will never run out of things to do in Swansea. The beaches at Langland, Caswell and Limeslade attract swimmers and tourists because of its safety making ideal for families and children. Swansea Bay on the other hand has a good community of water-sports enthusiasts. It offers an impressive range of activities that include sailing, water skiing, surfing, coasteering, kayaking, scuba diving, canoeing and wakeboarding.

Hiking is also an attraction. Thanks to the coastal paths that connect most of the Gower bays and Swansea Bay itself, countryside views have been made possible all throughout the year. Swansea offers breathtaking views of mountain landscapes.

Mumbles, a former fishing village, has a Victorian pier with a good number of restaurants, pubs and coffee shops. The promenade at Mumbles offers a panoramic view of Swansea Bay.

Swansea has a range of pubs, bars, clubs, restaurants and two casinos with the majority of city centre bars lining up on fabulous Wind Street. Most of the popular clubs, including Oceana, are located on the Kingsway. Live music is also played in some venues. The Mumbles Mile, formerly "one of Wales' best-known pub crawls" as described by the BBC is located in Swansea.

Swansea boasts over three miles (5 km) of soft, golden sands, making it the ideal family getaway. Its beaches have received a lot of attention and numerous praises from travel magazines. Travel writers visiting more than 1,000 beaches all over the world in search of the perfect sands in 2007 have declared Oxwich Bay on the Gower peninsula as the most beautiful beach in Britain. The Travel Magazine put its stamp of approval on Oxwich's "magnificent and unspoiled" scenery and as a "great place for adults and children to explore". In addition, The Guardian awarded it as one of Britain's top 10 category beaches in 2007.

Cap Juluca In Anguilla

Cap Juluca is an exclusive Caribbean hotel that is located to the southwest coast of Anguilla, of the British Virgin Islands. The resort is set on 179 tranquil acres, and surrounded by white sandy beaches, palm trees, and water so clear that you can see to the bottom.

Guests of the Cap Juluca resort are accommodated in 18 beachfront style villas which will house no more than six rooms each. The rooms measure
at least 700 square feet in size and feature large marble bathrooms, white tile floors, and louvered doors which will open wide to let in the cool sea breezes. During the morning, guests can enjoy complimentary continental breakfast which is served on their own private terrace.

The Cap Juluca also offers six pool villas which are surrounded by foliage on the edge of the beach. The pool villas offer either a private or shared swimming pool, sundeck, and even golf carts to help you travel around the property.

The resort design features exotic arches, domes,turrets, and parapets. The white villas, which are situated along the white sands of the mile long Maundays Bay, is surround by tropical flowers, palm trees, and breathtaking fountains.

This beach vacation also offers a number of great activities which include water sports, croquet, a health club, herb and endangered species gardens, children's program, nature trails and even tennis. Cove and Maundays Bay offer a mile of beach, where you can enjoy kayaking, sail, snorkeling, waterski, and even windsurfing.

You can also arrange for island tours at the Cap Juluca in Anguilla to explore the many beaches, go scuba diving, or even deep sea fishing. When it comes to fun on the water, this resort has something to offer everyone in your family.

The spa services at the Cap Juluca include specialized treatments such as Cap Juluca for two, a Thai massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, and even kinesiology.

Cap Juluca offers guests two restaurants and a 24 hour room service. One of them, George's, features pool and beachfront dining, serving guests contemporary tropical cuisine that includes salads, seafood, burgers, and even sandwiches.

The other restaurant, Pimms, is decorated with white Moorish arches and serves French-Asian cuisine within walking distance of the Caribbean Sea.

If you've been looking for a great beach vacation, the Cap Juluca in Anguilla will provide just what you need. There's something here for the
entire family, no matter what your family likes to do. Waking up on an island with the ocean at your back door is truly an amazing feeling - which is what Cap Juluca is truly all about.

Cotton House Beach Vacation

The only hotel on the exotic island of Mustique, the cotton house offers luxurious service, privacy, and plenty of secluded beaches. You can spend your days exploring the marine life, relaxing by the pool, or getting pampered by the enticing spa.

The spa at the Cotton House offers an amazing array of services, such as massages, facials, reflexology, wraps, and fully body treatments. You can catch a spa in one of the four treatment rooms, just steps from the beach, or even in the privacy of your own room.


Situated between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, the 1,400 acre Mustique Island offers a tennis club, nine secluded and beautiful beaches,
which are perfect for scuba diving, windsurfing, and even snorkeling.

Rooms and suites
The Cotton House offers just 19 luxurious guest rooms, cottages, and suites, most offering private patios and panoramic views of the ocean. The amentities offered by the Cotton House include soft French cotton linens, a pillow menu, air, flat screen televisions, and maid service twice a day.

If you are planning a honeymoon twist to your beach vacation, you can splurge on one of the cottages with a private plunge pool, or even book the two bedroom Cotton Hill Residence which offers a private swimming pool and its own staff that are dedicated to you.

Eating
From dining in your cottage, ordering a picnic basket and going to an empty beach, or just having a romantic candlelit dinner, Mustique leaves the choices up to you. A traditional afternoon tea is served each day in the Great Room, while there are weekly cocktail parties held by the Cotton
House as well.

Getting there
There are three ways that you can fly to Mustique. You can go via Barbados, via Martinique, or via Saint Vincent. From Barbados, you can take a Grenadines Airways flight to Mustique for around $400 per person - round trip flight.

Condos Behind the Gates of the Longboat Key Club

Behind the gates of the prestigious Longboat Key Club facing the Gulf of Mexico is a row of luxury condominiums with sensational views of the Gulf of Mexico. Some of the condo owners experience outstanding views of downtown Sarasota too.

Stopping at the guard gate to check in to view Longboat Key condos, visitors are greeted with a smile and directions proper directions to their building of choice. If you are shopping for real estate, you need a real estate agent to make appointments to enter a building should it be on your list of hopeful new homes. The golf course is on the right as you drive through the beautifully maintained grounds. Wildlife such as ducks, egrets and heron seem like part of the landscape.

Buildings behind the gates of Longboat Key to name a few of the most popular are: Sanctuary, Longboat Key Towers, Beaches, Privateer.

Residents of these building enjoy walks on the beach, water activities, fishing and swimming. Many buildings have tennis courts as part of their amenities as well as spas and exercise centers.

The Sarasota MLS show more than 400 Longboat Key condos for sale. For a availability in any of these popular buildings behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club, call Annette Smith at 941-504-3922 or for any other Longboat Key condo information.

Active Listings from the Sarasota MLS

Sanctuary
9 condos for sale, prices range from $1,495,000-$3,250,000

L'Ambiance
6 condos for sale, prices range from $$1,595,000-$3,325,000

Regent Place
2 condos for sale, prices range from $2,600,000-$2,695,000

Longboat Key Towers
6 condos for sale, prices range from $899,000-$2,250,000

Beaches
6 condos for sale, prices from $700,000-$1.5 million

Privateer
7 condos for sale, prices from $449,000-$899,000

If you want us to make appointments for you to view Longboat Key Club condos, please call us when you make your travel plans if you live out of town so we can add you to our showing schedule early. Many Longboat Key condos require more than 24 hours notice to show.

Laguna Beach California

Perfectly situated midway between Los Angeles and San Diego in southern Orange County, Laguna Beach is a popular weekend vacation in Southern California. Offering seven miles of coastline with sandy beaches and palm trees, Laguna Beach is the perfect beach vacation getaway.

There are 30 beaches and coves that visitors can explore either on foot or by kayak. The activities
here include sailing, bird watching, beach volleyball, surfing, and even scuba diving.

The Laguna Beach also enjoys warm weather year round with an average high of 69 degrees in January and 77 degrees in July. Popular activities for the outdoors here include romantic picnics, hiking, cycling, tennis, golf, and even botanical garden tours.

Laguna Beach is also home to an active artist community with almost 100 galleries that showcase art pieces by local and international artists. There are many festivals here in the summer, some of which are known around the world.

For those who enjoy shopping, Laguna Beach offers a wide selection of unique shops that sell hand crafted jewelry, antiques, and other things that you won't find anywhere else.

With the perfect weather year round, Laguna Beach in California offers you the perfect location for your beach vacation. Kids enjoy playing in the sand at one of the several beaches, while parents enjoy sun bathing and taking in the views that Laguna Beach is very well known for.

If you've thought about taking a beach vacation in the near future, Laguna Beach is perfect. There are several hotels for you to choose from, many of which offer discounts during the year, depending on when you visit. There's something for everyone here, even if your family is hard to please.

Beach Wedding Invitations Cards

Married is something great and it will give memory to all of us. Married contain various important thing that will the couple must plan and hope the ceremony go better. Besides that, we must invite all our friends, family to come our wedding. Now you just easily booking for the wedding card just using the internet. Basically i using wedding-needs.com that help you easily find various beach wedding invitations. Here, you can choose theme from African American, Autumn, Beach, Butterfly, Destination, Disney, Fall, Hearts, Spanish, Summer and other. Next is, when you are using this website, the sample of the each card are shown clearly. So you not need to go at the shop and waste your time there. Other that is tropical invites which give you the best scene and the price range is from $122.90 to $150.90 for 100 piece. That was awesome. It is cheap than other. Many people like island themed invitations because it give relation to who get the invitation card. For who are far from the company, the company Will ship in 24 to 48 Hours. International Shipping is available to all countries serviced by UPS. So what are you waiting more. Find here now

Sanctuary - Longboat Key Condos Update

At the southern end of Longboat Key, Sanctuary can be found behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club. There are five buildings which were constructed from 1989 to 1991. Many of these Longboat Key condos have balconies with sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Amenities of the Sanctuary include: Olympic size pool and spa, two Har-Tru tennis courts, private beach, fitness center, Club House, 24 hr security.

Currently the Sarasota MLS' data reports 9 condos available at Sanctuary. Prices range from $895,000 for a 1,823 sq.ft. condo to $3,250,000 for a luxury condo on Longboat Key with over 3,000 sq.ft.

For more information on Longboat Key condos or specific information about Sanctuary units, please contact Annette Smith at 941-504-3922. Send an email, Annette answers promptly.

Longboat Key Condos - Beaches Update

Beaches Condo Report on Longboat Key

Beaches is highly sought after because it has one of the best locations on the Key. The prestigious gates of the Longboat Key Club beckon buyers from across the world. Beaches is positioned with beautiful sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico, Longboat Key golf courses and Sarasota Bay. The 24 hour secured lobby with concierge service is one of the great benefits provided to the residents of Beaches.

Currently, the Sarasota MLS database results show 8 active listings ranging in price from $635,000 to $1,595,000. Three units have sold in the last six months priced from $755,000 to $1,190,000.

For more Sarasota real estate information on Longboat Key condos, click to our main website. Annette Smith markets Sarasota's finest waterfront and country club communities including Longboat Key.