Escape to the Water

Say good-bye to summer with a fun trip to this small beach town on Florida's west coast.

I could easily call Dunedin home. Maybe it's the fact that you don't need a car to get around downtown. Possibly it's because Main Street ends at the glorious blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. I just know that after a few hours in this laid-back Florida beach community, I never wanted to leave.

Home Away From Home

Any vacation to Dunedin should start with a check-in (anytime after 4 p.m.) at Meranova Guest Inn. Choose between a comfortable cottage or one of seven suites with kitchens lodged in the 96-year-old house. Enjoy breakfast in your living quarters, in the shelter of the gazebo, or in the orchid garden. Rates start at $130; (727) 733-9248 or www.meranova.com.

Main Street Stroll

Once you pull yourself away from the Meranova, head to Main Street. It's fun to stroll in and out of the cute boutiques and galleries. The Treehouse Garden Collection, which sits next door to the Meranova, sells an abundance of garden gadgets and wares.

Don't miss Art & Antique Gallery, especially because it's right off Main Street on Broadway. Loaded with high-end antiques and home accessories, this shop makes a great place to stock up on gifts.

Unforgettable Meals

Once the sun sets, feast at The Black Pearl, a fine dining restaurant whose varied menu includes rack of lamb and filet mignon. If you want to hang out with the locals, swing by Kelly's For Just About.. .Anything for appetizers, drinks, and a lively atmosphere.

Glorious Blue Water

Main Street ends at the ocean, but this is the marina, not the beach. Honeymoon Island, about 6 miles away from downtown, offers the closest sand. You can rent a bike, catch a bus, or take a cab. Once you get there, hop on a ferry to Caladesi Island State Park-named one of Dr. Beach's 2004 top beaches in the United States.

No matter what you do, your trip to Dunedin will be delightful. It's just that kind of place. JENNIFER MCKENZIE FRAZIER

For more information: Contact the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce; (727) 733-3197 or www.dunedin-fl.com.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Sep 2005
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