Florida fans, I need some advice re Gulf Coast

[NaturalBlondeYeahRight]

Evening. We are going to Orlando in the summer and have been before but want to spend 3/4 days on the Gulf coast. We have 2 youngish teens and would love to find a cool (ish) hotel but having never been over that side of Florida, I don't even know which beaches to start with!
Would love it to have a tropical feel, and maybe walking distance to bars (but not to bothered about that bit)
Any ideas at all to point me in right direction?

Have a look at Sunset Vistas on Treasure Island.
we had an apartment with 2 rooms, a balcony over the beach, walking distance to some restaurants at Johns Pass.

We watched the dolphins frolicking in the sea from our beds in the morning.
best place Ive ever taken the kids. we loved the wildlife there.

Alternatively have a look at Clearwater Beach, we stayed at the Marriott and the Hilton. so i can answer any questions.