Beautiful downtown Sarasota by the waterfront

Outdoor Activities

The warm Gulf of Mexico and white sandy beaches of Longboat Key draw people from all over the globe. They come to experience world-class fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding across glassy Sarasota Bay waters.

Biking and Hiking

Both activities are wildly popular here. With the tremendous number of trails located throughout the area, as well as miles of beaches, taking a stroll is always an option. Take a casual bike ride along Gulf of Mexico Drive on Longboat Key, or out to Ken Thompson Park. Other great locations to visit for hiking and biking are Myakka River State Park, Nathan Benderson Park, or the 10 mile Legacy Trail. If mountain biking is more your speed, try beautiful Robinson's Preserve in Bradenton.


Boating

Boating is the traditional Florida pastime. Whether you prefer to rent a boat or schedule a charter, you will have your choice of waterways to explore. The mesmerizing turquoise waters of the Gulf and Bay are full of rich marine life, big game fish, dolphin and manatee. The quiet serenity of our hundreds of inland waterways offer mangrove forests, waters teeming with fish and amazing bird watching. Sail, pontoon, power boat or yacht - choose your boat, choose your water and enjoy!


Fishing

Deep sea fishing, surf casting along the shore or fishing off the dock - fishing is a way of life for Floridians. Whatever your preferred venue or choice of catch - be it deep water or grass flats, tarpon or bass - join us for a day of fishing. You'll never be the same.


Golf

There is no off-season for golf in Sarasota. We know that as popular as our beaches and water are - some of our visitors are here primarily to hit the links! Celebrated course designers and architects have outdone each other with magnificent views, challenging holes and innovative courses; catering to every handicap and always capitalizing on the beauty of our area.


Kayaking

If you'd like to immerse yourself in Florida nature and wildlife, kayaking is the perfect activity. Close to the water, in touch with the habitat - gliding silently through the Bay or canals on Lido Key is an amazing experience. Get up close to fish and birds and enjoy the area from a whole new vantage point. This low impact activity is available to nearly every age group and is a beloved pastime. Kayak rentals are available by the day, week and long term.


Kiteboarding and Paddle Boarding

Folks are always on the lookout for a new way to enjoy the water, and these two sports are gaining popularity. Whether you are already skilled or a novice looking to try something new, equipment rentals are available and instructors are ready to help you learn.


Beach Horses

A unique adventure, horseback riding along the beach can be found in Palma Sola Bay where the horses actually swim. Have you ever heard of horse surfing? Give it a try here. No riding experience is required, but reservations are.


Longboat Key Tennis

The town of Longboat Key offers two public tennis court locations. The Longboat Key Tennis Center offers teaching professionals, a specialized teaching court, round robins, daily organized events and match making service. The Bayfront Park and Recreation Center also has courts on a first-come, first-served basis. The opportunity to play on Har-Tru or hard courts is your choice!


Spring Training in Sarasota

Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota has been home to the Baltimore Orioles spring training team since 2010. Tickets to all the games can be bought at the stadium or by calling the Orioles spring training line: 941-893-6300. Just up the road in Bradenton, you can watch the Pittsburgh Pirates spring training and Tampa, an hour drive away, offers the New York Yankees' Legend's Field.

 

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