Splash up your Sarasota Vacation

Don't just dip your toes in the water

Although many are happy to merely gaze out at the rolling waves of the Gulf of Mexico, with the occasional dip into the warm aqua water, it's also easy to spend most of your waking hours never stepping on dry land. With all of the water sports and activities close at hand, no matter where you stay in Sarasota you won't need to do the same thing twice.

Drop a line just about anywhere in Sarasota and you'll likely pull up a wriggling catch within moments, which makes the bay and gulf waters in the area one of the best fishing spots in Florida. Bait shops are located near all the major bridges and usual fishing holes, ready to provide live bait shrimp and extra gear along with snacks and cold drinks to keep your angling energy high. Some of the most popular spots are the Venice Fishing Pier, the T.J. "Tony" Saprito Fishing Pier near downtown Sarasota, and the boat docks at North Jetty Park on Casey Key. Keep an eye on the water to see the dolphins that frequent all three areas, and an eye on the skies to keep the seagulls from diving for lose bait.

More adventurous fishermen can arrange charter fishing trips that leave from all across the area. From small boats with experienced guides to big vessels packed with the latest deep-sea charter fishing gear, you'll be pulling up amberjack, grouper and snapper in no time. The area's experienced fishing guides make it simple for rod and reel novices, and some of the boats cater to a party atmosphere where fishing is merely an excuse to enjoy a day on the water. And yes, they'll clean your catch for you.

If you're serious about your fishing, however, the charter captains will take you on a guided tour of the area's unique fishing character and give you the opportunity to apply your skill in Sarasota's waters.

Fishing not your thing? You don't need to drop a line to enjoy Sarasota's lush liquid environment. Boat rentals are available by the hour or by the day, making it easy to to fit in a lesiurely cruise down the intracoastal waterway -- Florida's watery highway -- in a wide-decked pontoon boat, or tearing through the rolling waves of the Gulf on a high-powered jet ski. If you're a skier (or always wanted to try) strap on some sticks and jump the wake in Sarasota Bay, or take a more relaxed ride on a giant inflatable innertube pulled slowly behind the boat.

Stick to the surface of the water, however, and you're missing half the fun. A mask and snorkel will have you cruising the underwater scenery close to shore in no time, or you can sign up for an introductory scuba course that culminates in a dive from one of Sarasota's beaches. More experienced divers can find local guides to take you to some of the area's most exciting underwater vistas.

Yep, sand and land is nice, but you're missing out if all you do is dip a toe into Sarasota's incredible watery treasure.