Known for its gorgeous beaches, natural beauty, and old world charm, Manasota Key has plenty to offer a wide range of visitors. This tropical paradise boasts pristine beaches and a refreshing sense of seclusion, with no traffic lights or high-rises. Book one of the many spacious Manasota Key vacation rentals, and enjoy a much-needed getaway to this charming Gulf Coast town.
Climate
Like most spots along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Manasota Key has a hot, humid climate with relatively high temperatures year-round. July temperatures typically climb into the 90s, while January temperatures dip down into the 50s. With about 50 inches of rain in its annual forecast, Manasota Key is no stranger to showers, thunderstorms, and even the occasional hurricane during the Atlantic hurricane season from June through November.
Transit
Most Manasota Key visitors fly into Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, which is about 40 miles north, or Southwest Florida International Airport, which is about 70 miles south. Though the island itself is relatively small, it’s easiest to get between Manasota Key vacation rentals and coastal attractions with a car. A single two lane road connects you to where you need to go.
Things to Do
Take your pick of the top local beaches, each of which has ample sun and sand. Relatively quiet Manasota Beach features paved beach trails, picnic shelters that fit families large and small, and areas for swimming and fishing. Nearby, popular Englewood Beach has long stretches of sand, volleyball and basketball courts, a playground, and a swimming pool.
For a more rustic beach experience, head to Stump Pass Beach State Park, which has a mile-long seashore where visitors can search for shark teeth, fish for the top local catches, and spot wildlife along miles of hiking trails. Here you can also swim or catch some rays on the park’s secluded beach, as well as kayak past manatees, tortoises, and egrets.
If you want to get off the beach and into the crystal blue waters, you might want to book a local cruise. These cruises are a great way to learn about the local area, enjoy some dolphin watching, or even enjoy a meal on the water. If you prefer a more active approach to your sight-seeing, you can charter a sailboat or go kayaking in the gulf.
To explore even more of the Gulf Coast’s undeveloped natural beauty, make the trip to nearby Myakka River State Park, which includes nearly 60 square miles of diverse wetlands, pinelands, and prairies. Get a rare bird’s-eye view from the park’s tree canopy walkway, or stay on the ground and view local wildlife from the park’s boardwalk. Immerse yourself in Florida’s wilderness on miles of hiking trails, or take a tour on one of the park’s airboats or safari trams.
Food
All that exploration is bound to make you work up an appetite, so make your way to Englewood’s Good Times diner, a homey spot with hearty pancakes, omelets, and biscuits and gravy. Steps from Manasota Beach, fuel up at Lock and Key Restaurant and Pub, which specializes in grouper and other local seafood and offers great sunset views. For a more upscale choice, Beach Road Wine Bar and Bistro features cheese plates, fish tacos, and cocktails right on the waterfront. The bistro has several boat slips, making it a great place to stop while out boating along the key.
With beautiful stretches of sand and ample natural attractions, Manasota Key is the ideal destination for outdoors lovers. Whether you want to soak up the sun by the shore, relax at your choice of Manasota Key vacation rentals, or explore the great outdoors, this Gulf Coast spot has it all.
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