Just a few minutes away from all the hustle and bustle of Sarasota is our favorite local beach, Turtle Beach. It is only a few short miles from the main Siesta Key beach to Turtle Beach and the Sarasota County trolley will drop you right there. Not only is this area such a beautiful and quiet place, it is also a great place to paddle!
We start on the intercostal and paddle down a short canal to the Bay. We paddle around the mangrove islands through a mangrove tunnel or two and alongside a bird rookery.
We paddle around the mangrove islands of Jim Neville Marine Preserve and then to a "secret" beach. This beach is only accessible by boat so we may have it to ourselves. Such a beautiful place for a quick swim or just stopping for a few moments to relax. You may want to stay here all day.
This location is home to all kinds of wildlife including manatees, dolphins, beautiful sea and shorebirds and lots of fish.
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Beautiful mangrove islands--a birders paradise. We will paddle around the mangrove islands on the way to the secret beach.
We meet at the Turtle Beach Public Boat Launch.
Once you enter Turtle Beach park, go straight until the stop sign. Turn left. The public boat launch will be on your left.
Find parking anywhere inside Turtle Beach Park.
Sarasota, known as The Cultural Coast, is a vibrant city on Florida's Gulf Coast. It offers a unique blend of beautiful beaches, world-class performing arts, and a rich history, making it a diverse and appealing destination for all types of travelers.
Siesta Key Beach is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the United States. It offers powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and a variety of amenities.
The Ringling Museum is a comprehensive art and history museum complex featuring the works of John and Mable Ringling, the circus magnate and his wife. The museum includes a circus museum, an art museum, a historic house, and beautiful gardens.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a 15-acre botanical garden and research facility specializing in epiphytic plants, particularly orchids and bromeliads. The gardens feature a variety of themed areas, including a rose garden, a palm garden, and a children's garden.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a 20-acre botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary featuring a variety of exotic plants, birds, and animals. The gardens offer a unique opportunity to see wildlife up close, including flamingos, lemurs, and alligators.
The Sarasota Opera House is a historic theater and the home of the Sarasota Opera. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including opera, concerts, and special events. The building itself is a beautiful example of Art Deco architecture.
A local favorite featuring fresh grouper, a type of fish commonly found in the Gulf of Mexico, served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.
A Florida specialty featuring stone crab claws, typically served chilled with mustard sauce.
A refreshing salad made with a variety of Florida citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines, often served with a honey-lime dressing.
This is the most popular time to visit Sarasota due to the pleasant weather and numerous outdoor activities. It's also the peak season for cultural events and festivals.
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Sarasota is generally a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Sarasota Greyhound Station
SCAT offers affordable and reliable bus service with multiple routes and schedules. The system is easy to use with clear signage and helpful drivers.
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
Myakka River State Park is a large and diverse state park offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a variety of animals, including alligators, birds, and deer.
Venice is a charming coastal city known for its historic downtown, beautiful beaches, and world-class fishing. The city offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, as well as a variety of outdoor activities.
Lake Okeechobee is the largest freshwater lake in Florida and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, as well as birds and other wildlife.
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