Florida Visiting

Florida Vacations, Travel & Tourism

Manasota Key

You are here: Home / Notable Places / Manasota Key
-- Last update by Joe Mcdermott

Manasota Key

Manasota Key
Manasota Key is a true hidden gem along Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a tranquil atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for shark teeth on the beach, kayaking through mangroves, or simply relaxing as the sun sets over the Gulf, this island delivers unforgettable experiences. File photo: Mark F Lotterhand, licensed.

Manasota Key, a barrier island along Florida’s Gulf Coast, offers visitors an idyllic retreat characterized by pristine beaches, lush natural surroundings, and a laid-back atmosphere. Located near the towns of Englewood and Venice, Manasota Key is a hidden gem, offering an escape from Florida’s busier tourist destinations. With its untouched beauty, abundant wildlife, and outdoor activities, Manasota Key is perfect for beachgoers, nature lovers, and those seeking serenity.

A Pristine Barrier Island

  1. Natural Beauty:
    • Manasota Key features unspoiled beaches, turquoise waters, and a canopy of oak trees, palm trees, and mangroves that line its scenic roads and trails.
    • The island’s small-town charm and natural appeal make it a destination for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
  2. Undisturbed Atmosphere:
    • Unlike some of Florida’s more developed coastal areas, Manasota Key retains its quiet, old-Florida ambiance, free of high-rises and large commercial developments.

Beaches on Manasota Key

  1. Manasota Beach:
    • Located at the northern end of the island, this public beach features soft sands, clear waters, and family-friendly amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and outdoor showers.
    • It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a quiet day by the sea.
  2. Blind Pass Beach (Middle Beach):
    • Known for its seclusion and natural surroundings, Blind Pass Beach offers opportunities for shelling, shark tooth hunting, and nature walks through coastal dunes.
  3. Englewood Beach:
    • Situated at the southern end of the island, Englewood Beach is the most popular and developed beach on Manasota Key, with plenty of parking, dining options, and beach amenities.
  4. Stump Pass Beach State Park:
    • At the southern tip of the island, this state park boasts hiking trails, secluded beaches, and exceptional wildlife viewing. It’s a haven for kayakers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking solitude.

Activities and Attractions

  1. Shark Tooth Hunting and Shelling:
    • Manasota Key’s beaches are renowned for their abundance of fossilized shark teeth, which can be found scattered along the shore.
  2. Water Sports and Boating:
    • Visitors can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing in the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Lemon Bay.
    • Boat tours and charters are available, offering excursions for fishing, dolphin watching, and exploring nearby islands.
  3. Hiking and Nature Trails:
    • The island offers scenic walking paths and boardwalks through coastal ecosystems, particularly within Stump Pass Beach State Park.
  4. Wildlife Watching:
    • Manasota Key is home to diverse wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species such as ospreys, pelicans, and herons.

Dining and Local Flavor

  1. Waterfront Restaurants:
    • Enjoy fresh seafood and Gulf Coast cuisine at charming local eateries like The Waverly Restaurant & Bar, Beach Road Wine Bar & Bistro, and Lock ‘N Key Restaurant.
    • Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with spectacular sunset views.
  2. Casual Cafes and Bars:
    • Relax at beachside bars and casual cafes where you can savor tropical cocktails and live music.

Accommodations

  1. Vacation Rentals and Cottages:
    • Manasota Key features a variety of cozy beachfront cottages, rental homes, and condos, perfect for families and small groups.
  2. Boutique Inns:
    • Charming inns and small hotels provide a more personalized experience for visitors seeking comfort and convenience.
  3. Camping Nearby:
    • For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby parks and campgrounds offer a closer connection to nature.

Events and Festivals

  1. Sea Turtle Nesting Season:
    • From May to October, the beaches of Manasota Key become nesting grounds for sea turtles, offering visitors a chance to witness this natural phenomenon.
  2. Local Markets and Art Shows:
    • Seasonal events showcase the talent of local artisans and provide opportunities to purchase unique handcrafted goods.
  3. Sunset Gatherings:
    • Informal gatherings at Englewood Beach celebrate the day’s end with live music and camaraderie as the sun sets over the Gulf.

Vicinity of Manasota Key

Nearby Attractions

  1. Lemon Bay Aquatic Preserve:
    • Just off the island, this preserve offers kayaking, birdwatching, and opportunities to explore mangrove forests and estuarine waters.
  2. Historic Venice:
    • Located north of Manasota Key, Venice is known as the Shark Tooth Capital of the World and features quaint shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
  3. Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park:
    • A short drive away, this park offers additional hiking, kayaking, and fishing opportunities.

Visitor Information

  1. Location:
    • Manasota Key is located off State Road 776, accessible via Manasota Beach Road or Beach Road from Englewood.
  2. Parking:
    • Public beach access points provide parking for a nominal fee; spaces can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  3. Hours:
    • Beaches and parks are generally open from sunrise to sunset.
  4. Contact:
    • For more information, contact the Charlotte County Parks and Recreation Department or visit the official tourism website.

Tips for Visiting Manasota Key

  1. Bring Beach Essentials:
    • Pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to stay comfortable under the Florida sun.
  2. Arrive Early:
    • Parking can be limited, so arriving early ensures you get a spot at your preferred beach.
  3. Respect Wildlife:
    • Observe marine life from a distance, especially during turtle nesting season, to protect the area’s delicate ecosystems.
  4. Rent or Bring Gear:
    • Kayaks, paddleboards, and other equipment can be rented locally for those looking to explore the water.

Why Visit Manasota Key?

Manasota Key is a true hidden gem along Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a tranquil atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for shark teeth on the beach, kayaking through mangroves, or simply relaxing as the sun sets over the Gulf, this island delivers unforgettable experiences. Free of high-rise developments and crowds, Manasota Key provides a serene escape where you can fully immerse yourself in Florida’s coastal charm.

For more information visit: https://www.visitsarasota.com/beaches-parks/manasota-beach

More Content

Banner