3 Things: A Nest for the winter

Snowbirds have been flocking to Sarasota for more than 100 years and no town in the country caters to them quite as well as we do. There’s the gorgeous winter weather, of course, along with an unparalleled wealth of recreational activities. Add in the dining and cultural events, and the relative ease of getting around — been to Naples in February lately? — and we’re sure they’ll be flocking for many years to come. Here’s a selection of snowbird nests that should have our Northern neighbors drooling about this time of year.

1. For the snowbird who has everything ...
1241 Gulf of Mexico Drive, No. 702

If price is no object, go with the ultimate: beachfront on Longboat Key. This 3,400-square-foot condo on the seventh floor of the Water Club has three balconies overlooking the Gulf, plus an array of luxury features — maple floors, wood-inlay ceilings, a private elevator and a glamorous kitchen. With three bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths, there’s plenty of room for visitors, and the amenities are what you would expect at an upscale Caribbean resort: an enormous pool, fitness center, tennis courts, etc. Snowbirds will appreciate the impeccable security and the concierge who will ready the apartment for your visits. There’s also a private garage so you can leave a car. Pets are welcome, so bring along Rover. The condo is priced at $2,595,000.

For more information call Shellie Young, of Premier Sotheby’s, at 713-5458.

2. For the arts-loving snowbird ..
1350 Main St., No. 502
Sarasota’s latest wave of snowbirds come for the theater, opera, concerts and cabaret that fill every evening of the winter months, and this pied-à-terre, at 1350 Main St., is the perfect perch in which to enjoy them. It’s not large — just 705 square feet — but, that can be a plus in a second home. And the location couldn’t be better. You’re a short stroll from the entertainment and, just as important, the dining. This unit comes furnished, with an urban-chic feeling and an elaborate set of window treatments, including blackout shades. Other conveniences: a washer/dryer, concierge service, indoor parking, and yes, pets are allowed. Owners can rent their units up to 12 times a year, and the latest trend is for locals to buy and use them for urban weekends. Priced at $319,000.

For more information call Doug Parks, of Michael Saunders and Co., at 400-9087.

3. For the golfing snowbird ...
9330 Clubside Circle, No. 3201
If your idea of snowbird heaven is endless golf, check out communities like Stoneybrook, in Palmer Ranch. You’ll find comfortable, well-appointed condos at prices that are quite affordable. This second-floor, turnkey-furnished unit couldn’t be more pleasant, with two bedrooms, two baths and a lanai overlooking the third fairway and several pretty lakes. There’s an eat-in kitchen and a private laundry. Owners must join the golf club but, membership fees are reasonable — a bargain, actually — and the course is top-notch. And if you ever do get bored with golf, the beach is 10 minutes away, along with other activities, including the Legacy Trail for biking and jogging. This is classic snowbird living. It’s priced at $149,000.

For more information call Ken Ipox, of Premier Sotheby’s, at 993-7279.