Canoeing / Kayaking
Explore Sarasota's miles of waterways by kayak. Paddle for paddle — the best place to discover Florida birding, sea turtles and fish.
Higel Marine Park
This park gives visitors the opportunity to experience nature from the water. Higel Marine Park is a great place to launch a canoe, kayak, or boat. Stay along the shoreline for a bird’s eye view of hatchling fish in the...
Indian Mound Park
The scenic view of Lemon Bay is a highlight of this park. Nature trails through the property show off Florida’s native flora and fauna, as well as views of a prehistoric Indian mound site dating back to 1000 B.C. For...
Jim Neville Marine Preserve
These islands in Little Sarasota Bay are accessible only by water. For those looking for a paddle experience, this 35-acre preserve provides quiet and wonderful bird watching as you explore a maze of waterways. The bird...
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...
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...
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...
