Guide to Bradenton

'With almost endless sunshine and warm tropical waters – you're sure to fall for Bradenton's seaside charms.'

Good looking Bradenton is a historic seaside town sitting snugly on the southern shores of the Manatee River and at the tip of Tampa Bay. Once a fishing village, it's now a chic, chilled out beachside resort with heaps of attractions that'll more than keep you on your toes. Should you want to be, that is. Whether you want to have fun in the sun, get to grips with some historical sights or putt around one of the many world-champion golf courses – this place scores top marks all round. One thing you will find here is a bohemian vibe, as Brandenton is also known as a village of the arts, drawing artists from all over, who live, work and sell here. Spend some time browsing the galleries and see if anything takes your fancy, or pop your head in some of the antique curios and boutiques. If you're here on a Saturday, you'll witness the cobbled main street burst into life with the open-air farmer's market and you can't miss the Red Barn Flea Market and Plaza, which has over 600 retail stores and flea market stalls. Don't miss the South Florida Museum, Bishop Planetarium and Parker Manatee Aquarium while you're here. A one-stop museum, planetarium and aquarium, you can discover Florida's prehistoric history, see a star and laser show and get up close and personal to gentle manatees – all under one roof! And make sure you call in at the De Soto National Memorial Park. This visitor's centre and nature trail tells the story of Spanish Conquistador Hernando De Soto who landed here in 1539 in search of gold and other riches. If you're seeking a bit of R&R though, hit the local beaches. Anna Maria Bayfront Park is delightfully tranquil and Longboat Key is a brilliant spot for collecting shells. Take to the waters and try your hand at boating, fishing, sailing, parasailing or kayaking – or simply lie back and sift your fingers through the porcelain-white sands. Bliss.

Don't miss the South Florida Museum, Bishop Planetarium and Parker Manatee Aquarium while you're here. A one-stop museum, planetarium and aquarium, you can discover Florida's prehistoric history, see a star and laser show and get up close and personal to gentle manatees – all under one roof! And make sure you call in at the De Soto National Memorial Park. This visitor's centre and nature trail tells the story of Spanish Conquistador Hernando De Soto who landed here in 1539 in search of gold and other riches. If you're seeking a bit of R&R though, hit the local beaches. Anna Maria Bayfront Park is delightfully tranquil and Longboat Key is a brilliant spot for collecting shells. Take to the waters and try your hand at boating, fishing, sailing, parasailing or kayaking – or simply lie back and sift your fingers through the porcelain-white sands. Bliss.

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