Water Activities
Joan M. Durante Park
A unique oasis in an urbanized area, this 32 acre park offers nature trails and boardwalks, with gazebos and a botanical garden on-site as well. The park was restored in the 1990’s to wetlands and coastal hammock...
Ken Thompson Park and New Pass Fishing Pier
The New Pass Fishing Pier or the sandy bayfront beach are popular for fishing. Sarasota Bay Walk provides a half mile boardwalk nature trail through the mangroves. Paved paths wind through the park for jogging with views of...
Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center
This is a marvelous place to see American bald eagles and a variety of local birds. The park also features scenic views of Lemon Bay, a butterfly garden, nature trails and an environmental center. Classes, as well as guided...
Lido Beach Park
Lido is among the State’s top-rated beaches. Scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico and “sugar” sand beaches make this a popular destination. If bird watching is your favorite hobby, this is a good spot to see...
Manasota Beach Park
This is a wonderful place to spend your leisure time, whether you are interested in swimming, boating, fishing, walking, or collecting shells. Located at the north end of Manasota Key, it is also a quaint place to picnic and...
Marina Boat Ramp Park
This is a great place to launch a canoe, kayak or small boat and explore the waterways of the area. The Intracoastal Waterway, Dona Bay, Roberts Bay and the Gulf of Mexico are all close by, providing easy access to the water...
Marina Park and Boat Ramp
Looking for a great fishing experience? The City of North Port’s Marina Park and Boat Ramp gives avid boaters and fishing enthusiasts direct access to Charlotte Harbor and Boca Grande Pass, the world’s premier...
Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium
At Mote Aquarium you can explore the secrets of the sea through touch pools, viewable working labs, and high-tech interactive exhibits that showcase the world-renowned research of the adjoining Mote Marine Laboratory. See...
Myakka River State Park
Myakka River State Park is one of Florida's oldest and largest state parks protecting one of the State's most diverse natural areas. The Myakka River, designated as a Florida Wild and Scenic River, flows through wetlands,...
Myakka State Forest
Myakka State Forest is perfect for those who like to watch wildlife. Over 100 species of birds, including scrub jay and owls have been sighted here and the forest is listed in the southern section of the Great Florida Birding...




