Discover the natural beauty and cultural attractions of the rich Gulf Cast of Florida, from the beaches of Bradenton to the Ten Thousand Islands. The essence of Gulf Coast Florida lies in the delicate balance between natural wilderness and social civility. Award-winning author Chelle Koster Walton directs you to lush landscapes, sugary sands, and excellent shelling and fishing in an area that offers fabulous lodging, restaurants, shops, and cultural and recreational activities to suit everyone's taste and budget. Walton outlines the history of the region and offers many suggestions for exploring the diverse legacies of the settlers. Fully updated to keep abreast with the new resorts, restaurants, and attractions in the region, this new updated and expanded third edition offers the most comprehensive and critical review of what to do on the coast. New to this edition: "Chelle's High Fives," a special section that rates the crA.me de la crA.me in capricious categories such as martinis, playful beaches, and old Florida funk.

Lowell Thomas Award-winner Chelle Koster Walton is the author of numerous guidebooks, including Adventure Guide to Tampa Bay and Florida's West Coast; Fun with the Family in Florida; Fodor's Compass American Series Florida; Frommer's Best Beach Vacations: Florida; and Insight Guide to Orlando. She has contributed to the Miami Herald and to Fodor's Gold Guides. She lives on Sanibel Island.