Who doesn't long for a Florida beach vacation? It's the ideal place to get away for a while without having to leave the country and can be quite an affordable vacation. The hardest part is choosing a beach . . . from Clearwater to Daytona Beach, Florida lodging is available on some of the finest stretches of sand in the country. You can choose from a quiet Bradenton beach hotel or a more rowdy Daytona option, either way, it's bound to be fun.

Why does Florida attract so many people? It's about as close to a tropical paradise as you can get without leaving the country. With all the sunshine of Mexico, this sunny state is the perfect spot to hang out for a while. It's also a good alternative to a foreign country since the food is similar, English is spoken and you are still in your own country. That means you still have your own medical system and everything that you're accustomed to. These are just a few of the reasons that people love visiting Florida. 

The main issue that you'll face when planning a Florida vacation is deciding where to go. There's Disney World, of course, which is vital for families, but apart from this, you have a huge selection of beaches, all lovely and warm, year round. 

Which beach should you choose? Let's take a look at two very popular and quite distinct beaches.

Bradenton Beach

This pleasant beach sits along the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, so it has both fresh and saltwater areas. It stretches for 20 miles between Tampa and Sarasota, offering a nice central location. This area is much quieter than many other beaches in Florida and when you choose a Bradenton Beach hotel, you'll be able to enjoy a great night's sleep, followed by plenty of time on the beach. 

There are several museums available to learn more about the history of the area and a planetarium that is ideal for kids and adults alike. Another fun place to visit is the Parker Manatee Aquarium, which is fairly small, but allows you to take a closer look at manatees. 

Bradenton Beach is nice and close to all the amenities, but it is a tranquil spot to vacation and ideal for just getting away from it all. If you aren't into nightclubs and parties, then this is a great alternative. 

Daytona Beach

Where Bradenton is quiet and tranquil, Daytona is all about excitement. You've probably heard about the racetrack at Daytona more than the actual beach, but these days cars that drive on the beach are only allowed to go 10 mph. However, if you want to watch racing, the Daytona International Speedway is a great spot to enjoy some racing. 

The beach itself is actually a few different communities that form one park. This stretches south from Ormond-By-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet. It runs down the Atlantic side of the state and feels quite separate because on one side there is the ocean and on the other side is the Halifax River. 

If it's entertainment you want, Daytona has it. Daytona Beach Florida lodging is close to everything you could want . . . with activities for the entire family. From clubs and discos for the adults to mini golf and arcades for kids, there's something for everyone. And don't forget the food, there is a huge selection of snack spots and cafes that line the Boardwalk. 

You can easily find Daytona Beach, Florida lodging or look for a Bradenton Beach hotel. Which beach should you choose? The choice is yours. All party or nice and quiet.