Presenting

WELCOME from the Publisher S Sandcastles, sunscreen and fruity cocktails with paper umbrellas, these are the images that spring to mind when I think of summer. For me, it's the time of the year to relax, take the scenic route and lounge by the pool with a good book. Yes, even us "locals" have a special place in our hearts for summer. The Florida sun does shine a little brighter this time of year, and of course, it is hot! All the more reason to call it a day and head for the beach. In our Summer issue, we explore one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the world, Siesta Key. We also showcase two impressive coastal communities, The Sanderling Club on Siesta Key and Gulf Shore Boulevard in Naples. For those looking for a new home this summer, we have some outstanding choices to share with you. One of my favorites is the exquisite condominium on Sarasota Bay, La Bellasara, featured on our cover. This exquisite home offers the most breathtaking panoramic views of Sarasota I have ever seen, truly a castle in the sky. For those looking for wide open country views, we have a spectacular sportsman's paradise to show you, the Mineral Branch Lodge. To entertain you this summer, we have carefully selected the best concerts, festivals and plays coming to Southwest Florida. Be sure to check out our Summer Video-Mag, where we have concert clips and video tours embedded into the pages. Our Video-mags allow us to expand the conversation beyond the page in an entirely new and exciting way. As for me, the beach bag is packed and my little ones are covered in sunscreen, ready to build some sandcastles. Our drive to the beach may only take a few minutes, but I still get a tingle in my stomach, when I catch the first glimpse of the ocean. The sight of the brilliant turquoise waters never gets old. Have a great summer! Jules Lewis Gibson, Publisher & Editor Feature Properties In This Issue La Bellasara Page 10 8 | FLORIDA HOMES MAGAZINE Beau Ciel Page 12 Mineral Branch Page 14

• Cover