We stay in Englewood for 3 1/2 months (Jan-Apr), and love the area. We stay in a condo on Lemon Bay which is about 6 miles from where you are staying. I'm not familiar with the exact facility that you are staying at but have surely have driven past it several times. I'm sure that the area will not be congested (as it is when we go) and it will give you a chance to explore the area. The beach is very nice. If you have beach directly in front of your unit you will not have to go to the public beach (which can't be more than a few hundred yards up the road). There are at least 3 beaches on the Key that you are staying at. We prefer Englewood's public beach. If you are handicapped and have a sticker you do not have to pay for parking. The public beach has a "Beach Guy" that rent's chairs and umbrellas very reasonably, but you can bring your own if you like. Manasota Key's beaches are not the fine white sand that you find up in Siesta....but they are very nice and the Gulf water is very comfortable. There are 3-4 restaurants/bars near the beach and are very popular. We like the "Lock and Key" and the Gulf View" best for food. The Sand Bar Tiki and White Elephant are good for music, drinks and laughs.
One downside is that for shopping (food & clothing), you have to go across the bridge to the mainland (about 4 miles) and you will find a Publix & Beal's store at Merchant's Crossing. We like it there and have been going for 5 years. I hope this helps. BTW.....we used to stay at OP for 6 weeks but prefer Englewood and the west coast lifestyle.
Mike
