Being on vacation in Florida will always remind me of my favorite Florida places.  The top of the list is Boca Grande, Florida.  I visited the Gasparilla Inn often with my family while I attended Rollins College.  It is a true bastion of chic southern hospitality. Florida at it's best. 

 I loved lazy evenings playing backgammon in the hotel after a long dinner at The Pink Elephant. We enjoyed fantastic cocktails while the ceiling fans give your sunburned skin a chill.

Here is a review of this barrier island from the Conde Nast Traveler. 

It is certainly a place to enjoy with or without children. They offer children's camps at various times of the year.  The tarpon fishing is the best around, great golf and  tennis too.