Gulf Coast Adventures for All Ages
Family - The Area
Located on the beautiful Gulf Coast of Florida, Manasota Key is a hidden gem – perfect for family and group activities. Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or extended family, this barrier island offers a variety of attractions.
Spend your days exploring the beautiful outdoors by foot, water, or air! From pristine beaches and thrilling water sports to nature trails and local dining, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best family and group activities in Manasota Key that highlight the beauty of this coastal paradise.
1. Explore the Best Beaches for Families on Manasota Key
Manasota Key is home to some of the most family-friendly beaches in Southwest Florida. Our favorite spot? Of course, it’s our private access to Manasota Beach! Manasota Beach is a scenic location for families to lounge the day away.
With plenty of parking and amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and lifeguards, it’s an easy and safe beach.
Looking for a more private beach? Head to Blind Pass Beach, a lesser-known gem that’s just a short drive away. Calm waters, soft sand, and nature trails make a great spot to spend the whole day.
The hiking trails weave through the surrounding natural areas. The beach is perfect for shelling, swimming, and spotting dolphins and other wildlife offshore.
2. Kayaking Lemon Bay: A Must-Do Adventure
For an up-close experience with nature, head to Lemon Bay for a day on the water. This quiet estuary offers calm waters and an abundance of wildlife. Paddle along the mangroves, and you might see dolphins, manatees, and different bird species.
Exploring Lemon Bay is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Manasota Key for families and groups. Surrounding by peaceful nature, you’ll feel in tune with the local ecosystem.
Local companies rent kayaks and offer guided tours. This makes it easy for beginners and families with kids to explore the waters safely. As a guest of Manasota Key Resort, you’ll enjoy free access to our kayaks and paddle boards.
3. Rent a Boat on the Gulf of Mexico
For a fun group activity, renting a boat on the Gulf of Mexico is a great way to explore Manasota Key. Plan a relaxing excursion or bring your poles for a day of fishing.
Boat rentals are available for groups of all sizes. Anchor near private sandbars, swim in the clear Gulf waters, and cruise the coastline during sunset.
Consider renting a speed boat from local boat yards! Spend the day island hopping or snorkeling. The Gulf waters around Manasota Key are known to be crystal-clear, making this an ideal family-friendly outing.
4. Fishing Charters and Pier Fishing
If your travel group loves fishing, you won’t want to miss the chance to cast a line in the rich waters of Manasota Key. Fishing off the Manasota Key Resort pier is a relaxing and accessible way to spend the day.
The pier at Manasota Key Resort offers a quiet setting for catching local species like snook, redfish, and tarpon. It’s a fun activity for all ages. Kids always love the excitement of reeling in their first catch of the day!
For a more in-depth experience, consider booking a fishing charter off the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you’re a first-time fisherman or an experienced angler, local fishing charters offer half-day and full-day trips. Explore some of the best fishing spots in the Gulf with expert guides to help you.
5. Dolphin and Manatee Tours
One of the highlights of visiting Manasota Key is getting to see dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat. Manasota Key dolphin tours are a family favorite. Boat rides bring you close to playful dolphins as they swim alongside your boat. The experience is magical and sure to be a hit with kids.
Many group tours on Manasota Key offer a mix of dolphin sightings, birdwatching, and visits to secluded islands. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while learning about local wildlife.
6. Hiking Nature Trails in Manasota Key
Not interested in exploring the waterways? There are several nature trails on Manasota Key that showcase the area’s lush landscapes from land. The trails at Lemon Bay Park are a great option for family and group hikes.
The park covers over 200 acres. Explore a variety of walking paths, from easy strolls along the bay to more challenging routes through mangroves. Keep an eye out for birds, gopher tortoises, and even bobcats!
Another great spot is the Stump Pass Beach State Park. Stump Pass Beach has a mile-long hiking trail that leads to the southern tip of the island. Along the way, you’ll have stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and Lemon Bay. There are several spots to stop for a swim or to do some shel searching.
7. Savor Local Dining at Family-Friendly Restaurants
No trip to Manasota Key is complete without enjoying some of the local dining options. Farlow’s on the Water is a popular choice for families. It has a relaxed atmosphere and a menu filled with fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes.
For a more casual meal, Lock ‘N Key Restaurant is a great option. It’s outdoor seating is right by the beach!
For groups looking for a laid-back evening, head to Magnolia’s On the Bay. Magnolia’s has stunning sunset views, live music, and rich locally sourced dishes. Families and larger groups will appreciate the restaurant’s friendly atmosphere and ample seating.
If you’re staying at the resort, walk over to Lemon Bay Market for a quick bite to eat by the bay. Then grab a cocktail at The Beach Bar!
8. Beach Volleyball and Water Sports
For families who love to stay active, beach activities on Manasota Key are a big draw. Many of the local beaches have volleyball courts, and you’ll often see groups playing friendly matches. Manasota Key Resort boasts an outdoor sports court with basketball, pickleball, and more.
Nearby Englewood Beach is a great spot for water sports. Rent jet skis, paddleboards, and other watercraft to spend the day on the water. Try parasailing to get a bird’s-eye view of the coastline, or go snorkeling to explore the underwater world.
9. Group Day Trips and Excursions
Manasota Key is also the perfect launching point for group day trips. Be sure to visit nearby Gasparilla Island, home to the historic village of Boca Grande. Here, you can explore charming shops, dine at local cafes, and visit the famous Boca Grande Lighthouse.
Plan a group excursion to Cayo Costa State Park, an untouched barrier island that’s only accessible by boat. This remote island is perfect to explore nature, swim in clear waters, and picnic with friends.
Plan Your Group Vacation to Southwest Florida
Family and group activities on Manasota Key offer something for everyone. Manasota Key offers outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and relaxed dining. It is the perfect place for families and groups. Here, you can create lasting memories in Southwest Florida.