Water Sports in Sarasota
Water, water everywhere but what is the best way to see it? Thankfully, there is no shortage easy options to get you out on the water.
SPort Gulf of Mexico
Kayaking
Sarasota is known for beautiful beaches and lush barrier islands dotting the coast, it is those barrier islands that provide some great opportunities to get out on the water and still be sheltered from larger ocean waves. The South Lido Mangrove Tunnels might be the spot for you if this is what you are looking for in a day on the water. Narrow and low-ceilinged tunnels offer a unique paddling experience as well as offering an ideal habitat for fish and wading birds.
Kayaking in crystal clear waters
Look up and you will likely spot the mangrove Tree Crab, harmless and fun to watch scurry around the branches. If you would on the lookout for the famous manatee residents of the area give Emerson Point Preserve a try. This 365-acre preserve is in a unique location at the mouth of the Manatee River as it flows into Lower Tampa Bay making it a great opportunity to not only spot manatees but also a large dolphin community. Didn’t pack your kayaks? No problem! There are plenty of Kayak outfitters that will rent just the kayak as well as offering guided tours of popular areas.
Florida Manatees
Boat Tours
Famous for our sunsets, a water view may be the very best way to end your day here on the Suncoast. With no end to scenic vistas to choose from you can hardly go wrong though one of the most popular companies in Sarasota is the Le Barge Tropical Cruises. Departing from the Downtown Sarasota area, they offer many different cruise options to suite guests from wildlife spotting tours to evening cruises complete with dinner and live entertainment.
Dolphin Boat Tours
Looking for a more unique boating experience? Look no further than Crusin’ Tikis. These floating Tiki bars power their way along with the Suncoast offering outings from 90 minutes to 4 hours offering guests to customize their outings for sandbar excursions, swimming, and the always popular sunset tours.
Paddle Board Tours
Stand Up Paddleboarding
SUP is an extremely popular option for a day on the water in Sarasota bay with our ample beaches, coves, bays, and creeks there is endless options for perfect SUP outings. SUP’s popularity is easy to see as it is a skill that you can pick up in just a few minutes and is open to most fitness levels as well as ages. Phillippi Creek offers a great chance to see manatees as well as a large otter population up close on this 6-mile stretch of water in South Sarasota.
Sunset Paddle Boarding
Enjoy the stunning waters of Siesta Key with a gentle paddle along North Shell Road if you are ready for an open water opportunity. You will find many tour operators throughout Sarasota giving visitors extensive options of locations as well as receiving training and safety tips from outfitters.
