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Where to Find Fresh Local Fare During Your Gulf Coast Vacation


Stunning Kitchen in Sandcastle II 805

We’re all trying to eat a little bit healthier these days, especially since New Year’s Resolutions have been made and the holiday feasting is over. One of the best ways to do that is to make some of your own meals where you have control over the ingredients, and you know exactly what is going into the food you eat.

One of the advantages of booking a Gulf beach vacation rental is having the option to make some of your meals at home (your vacation home). It’s great going out and trying new restaurants in the area, but it’s also nice to be able to relax, take advantage of the amenities, and enjoy a meal in. With vacation rentals offering modern, upscale kitchens to meet your every need, you’ll want to take advantage of this luxurious convenience.

You may be wondering where you can find some of the freshest local fare to make your meals both healthy and delicious during your stay on the Gulf Coast. We can help you with that.

Downtown Clearwater Farmer’s Market
Located on the 500-600 blocks of Cleveland Street at Station Square Park, the Clearwater Farmer’s Market runs every Wednesday from 9a.m. to 2p.m. from October through May. The market is filled with colorful tents and booths offering the freshest farm produce, cheeses, baked goods, cut flowers, plants, and so much more.

Photo Courtesy of Clearwater Farmer’s Market

In addition to the fabulous shopping, there are also refreshments available throughout the market and live music from 11a.m. to 1p.m. Bring your family and friends and enjoy perusing the local goods while also sampling some pastries and coffee or opting for some heavier fare. The atmosphere is lovely, and it will leave you wanting to come back for more!

Beginning in January, the Clearwater Farmer’s Market also offers evening hours held on the first Friday of each month (through May) from 4-8p.m. Don’t miss it!

Free 2-hour parking is available at Garden Avenue Garage with ticket validation, just see the Market Manager. The market is stroller, bike, and handicap accessible. There are always new businesses relocating to the downtown area, so it’s a great way to get to know them.

Largo Open Air Market

Another great option for shopping local and finding the freshest fare is found at the Largo Community Center on Saturdays from 9a.m. to 2p.m. The Largo Open Air Marketinvites you to browse its wide variety of vendors selling fresh local produce, artisan foods, unique arts and crafts, health and beauty items, and so much more. You can find it all here in one beautiful outdoor setting.


The market is open every Saturday from September through May. Bring your family and friends out for some entertainment and fun while bringing home some of the best local products to enjoy. The Largo Community Center is located at 400 Alternate Keene Road.


Plan Your Gulf Coast Vacation Now
We hope you’re planning your 2013 Gulf Coast vacation right now. January is a wonderful time to take full advantage of getting away to our white sandy beaches, sparkling clear waters, and brilliant sunny blue skies. While you’re here, come on out to our area markets and experience buying local at its best. We hope to see you soon!

Have you been to any of our local farmer’s markets? How did you like the experience? What did you buy? Tell us about it in our comment sectionwe love hearing from our readers.