I've been looking on VRBO, Homeaway, Flipkey, Tripadvisor and Airbnb for a rental in Southwest Florida for a month next winter. There are several areas to rent in but since I'm not familiar with the area I was wondering if anyone could suggest an area or where not to rent. We want to be near or on the beach, otherwise we just want a safe area. Thanks.

SW FL is a huge area but I'd suggest looking at St. Pete Beach, Pass-a-Grille, Anna Maria Island. All easy to fly into Tampa International or drive down I-75. These are more of what I call "old Florida" with minimal mid & high rises, nice small homes/bungaloes, great restaurants and beautiful beaches. Doesn't ever seem crowded from about May - October as the "snowbirds" haven't arrived. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

Rick--I love ST Pete beach too, but I guess? maybe that's not SW Florida? I think of that area as still Central Florida. Not sure. Anna Maria is a special gem, for sure..

Madeira Beach near John's Pass is cute too.
irina

It's South of me and West once you get there. Central is DinnyWorld & Goofy. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Groovin.gif" alt="" />

I wouldn't know about Disneyworld. Have never been there! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

Thanks for the replies. I'm looking at North Fort Meyers and south. So Fort Meyers area, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Sanibel, Captiva, Marco and Naples.

Then Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte are others also.
Dolphins every am.
All the way SW is the Everglades!
irina

Fort Myers beach is a very nice area. Lots of good places to eat...beautiful beaches. I have felt safe there every visit walking to and from restaurants and where we are staying on the beach. Near Sanibel, Naples and the airport RSW is easy. Just a little further south too so maybe warmer weather than a little further up the coAst