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The Top Five Places to Go Kayaking Near Siesta Key

Posted by Best Western Siesta Key onJuly 14, 2021 in Beach, Dolphin Sightings, Gulf of Mexico, Kayaking, Relaxation, Siesta Key, The Beach, Things To Do.

Taking a trip to Siesta Key, where the water is the perfect temperature, a breathtaking shade of turquoise, and offers zen, tranquil surf, we know you will want to take advantage of floating in the Gulf of Mexico as much as you can. While there are many places to rent kayaks and tag along to guided tours, you might be wondering where you can find adventures of your own and go kayaking near Siesta Key. In addition to the beaches on Florida’s west coast, there are numerous water trails, rivers, and mangrove tunnels waiting to be explored by kayak. Whether you are renting from a local shop or launching your own personal craft, the local experts here at Best Western Siesta Key know the best places to go kayaking in Sarasota.

Myakka River State Park

As one of the oldest parks in Florida, intermediate and advanced kayakers will find Myakka River State Park to be a beautiful and fun place to spend a day on the water. Explore 58 square miles of wetlands, pinelands, hammocks, and prairies, and keep your eyes open for wild turkey, boar, turtles, and white-tailed deer. Taking a trip down Myakka River can easily turn into a full-day excursion, so be prepared with water, snacks, and even lunch to enjoy at the picnic area near Route 72.

South Lido Trail

Launch your kayaks in Ted Sperling Park, located at South Lido Beach, and marvel at the natural beauty and wildlife found within the mangrove tunnels. These exotic tunnels are naturally created by waterways and estuaries and are home to hermit crabs, channeled whelk, brown pelicans, great blue herons, and even dolphins and manatees. Make your way past three types of mangroves, including red, black, and white, as you paddle and float into Sarasota Bay.

Caspersen Trail

Home to Alligator Creek and Forked Creep, Caspersen Trail is a popular spot for kayakers. Conveniently set sail at Caspersen Beach Park and travel south through mangrove-lined trails on the bayside. This kayaking route is a wonderful way for bird watchers to spot a few Florida natives, like osprey, herons, and pelicans, that may be flying above or resting in the grassy areas.

Neville Marine Preserve Trail

The Neville Marine Preserve Trail, named in honor of the renowned Sarasota Environmentalist, Jim Neville, is a great option for the whole family as it offers a relaxing kayak trip. Begin by launching at Turtle Beach and make your way along the Gulf of Mexico, past Midnight Pass, and into Little Sarasota Bay. Enjoy paddling and floating through mangroves, lagoons, uninhabited beaches, and of course, the calm and peaceful Jim Neville Preserve. In the shallow waters of the preserve, manatees, and a few brave dolphins, have been known to swim right up to greet visitors and local kayakers.

South Creek Trail

Travel along Casey Key Island and make your way into the famous Oscar Sherer State Park. Full of lush native plants and ever-flourishing vegetation, Oscar Sherer State Park offers walking trails, swimming, and fishing in addition to kayaking. You can also catch a 90-minute guided kayaking tour every Wednesday morning with local volunteer tour guides.

See for yourself why many Siesta Key vacationers, visitors, and locals like to spend their time paddling and floating around Sarasota. Between the magnificent vegetation, like the mangrove tunnels and the spectacular wildlife, including manatees and dolphins, kayaking near Siesta Key will be a memory you and your family will cherish for a lifetime. For more information on kayak rentals or guided tours, ask your friends here at Best Western Siesta Key.