About the Village of Cortez: Historic Cortez Village hugs the coast of Sarasota Bay and is one of the few surviving fishing villages on Florida’s west coast. The waters offshore are know as “The Kitchen” because of the bounty of fish harvested from these waters in the early days. Today Cortez has become a haven for artists, writers and fisherman who enjoy the unspoiled environment and slow pace of life.

Cortez is really a world all its own. In many ways, it is like taking a step back in time. You will be charmed by the old bungalows and cottages, many dating back to the 1920s, situated along short, narrow roads dotted with palm trees.

There are neighboring commercial fish houses on Sarasota Bay, where anglers dock their fishing boats and unload their fresh catches each and every day.

Bradenton: Bradenton is a friendly town offering historical attractions and outdoor activities for the young, and young at heart. It is located on the southern most part of Tampa Bay between St. Petersburg and Sarasota. From the dazzling white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, to the banks of the Manatee River, Bradenton offers swimming, fishing, boating, parasailing, canoeing or kayaking. A half dozen beautiful golf courses are located in Bradenton, where the weather is not an issue and you can play sun up to sun down.

The Orlando attractions such as Disney World, MGM Studio and Sea World are just an hour and a half away from Bradenton.

Anna Maria Island: Anna Maria Island is located off the west coast of Florida between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. It’s accessed by two bridges from the mainland and is the northernmost of a string of barrier islands that stretch south to the Florida Keys. Anna Maria Island supports three cities, Anna Maria at the northern end, Holmes Beach in the center and Bradenton Beach at the southern tip. The island boasts a seven-mile long beach rimmed with tall and graceful Australian pines, some as high as 60 feet. There are three fishing piers, charter and sailboat rentals, as well as any number of beach activities to enjoy. Parasailing is a fun way to get a unique look at the island, and there are public tennis courts in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. If golf is your game, Anna Maria Island is just a short drive to more than 45 championship courses.

There are many beachside restaurants, just a bridge walk away, with wonderful views where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the ocean.