Looking for condo in west Florida

[samson66]

I'm approaching retirement and I'm considering doing the snowbird thing.

Planning to keep a house up here in good old Maryland, the home of high taxes and left-wing lunacy. But I'd like to also pick up a moderately priced condo in west Florida and split my time between the two - while becoming a Florida resident at the same time.

Looking for a two-bedroom condo, anywhere between let's say Clearwater down to Ft. Myers. Needs to be water front, but does not need to be on the beach. Just want water that has access to the gulf. Condo probably the best for my situation since it will sit unused for the summer months.

Can anybody point me in a good direction? I've spent a lot of time down there (primarily in the St. Pete area) but I really don't know which area is best as far as keeping property taxes reasonable, low crime, good overall place to live. And of course I need to look at places with lower condo fees so I don't get soaked on that.

Any suggestions??