Beaches, Boating &
Gulf Coast Living.
From world-famous Siesta Key to hidden fishing coves on Casey Key, the Gulf Coast offers some of the best waterfront lifestyle in America. Here is your guide to the best beaches, boating, fishing, and waterfront dining.
Your Beach, Your Vibe.
Whether you want white sand, shelling, shark tooth hunting, or a lively scene with restaurants and rentals, there is a beach for every mood.
Siesta Key Beach
SarasotaRegularly ranked #1 beach in the United States. Quartz-crystal sand stays cool even on the hottest days. 2.5 miles of beach with gentle waves, volleyball, concessions, and sunset drum circles at Siesta Key Village. The most iconic beach on the Gulf Coast.
Venice Beach
VeniceA classic Florida beach with a wide shoreline, gentle surf, and the iconic Venice Beach Pavilion and fishing pier. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, nearby shops and restaurants on Venice Avenue, and excellent shelling after a storm.
Caspersen Beach
VeniceKnown worldwide for fossilized shark teeth hunting. The beach has a natural, undeveloped feel with mangroves and coastal hammocks. A favorite for those who want a quieter, nature-focused beach day with the thrill of prehistoric treasure hunting.
Nokomis Beach
NokomisA local favorite with a laid-back, Old Florida feel. Great fishing from the jetty, boat ramp access to the Intracoastal, and a wide, uncrowded beach. The Nokomis Beach Pavilion hosts community events and concerts.
Anna Maria Island Beaches
BradentonA collection of seven miles of pristine Gulf-front beaches including Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, and Bean Point. Quaint island communities with rental cottages, beachfront cafes, and a relaxed, car-optional vibe. The closest beach cluster to Tampa.
Lido Key Beach
SarasotaA quieter alternative to Siesta Key with the same powdery sand and turquoise water. Adjacent to St. Armands Circle for upscale shopping and dining. Less crowded than Siesta Key even in peak season.
Your Gateway to the
Water.
With the Intracoastal Waterway, Sarasota Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico at your doorstep, boating and fishing are a way of life here. Here are the key access points and spots.
Boat Ramps & Marinas
Centennial Park Boat Ramp (Sarasota), Nokomis Village Boat Ramp, Venice Municipal Marina, Ken Thompson Park & Marina (Siesta Key), Bradenton Riverwalk Marina, Sarasota Yacht Club.
Fishing Spots
Venice Fishing Pier, Nokomis Beach Jetty, Longboat Pass, Casey Key Inshore Flats, Sarasota Bay (snook, redfish, trout), offshore gulf wrecks (grouper, snapper) 15-30 min from the passes.
Kayak & Paddleboard Launch Points
Ted Sperling Park (Siesta Key), Lido Mangrove Tunnels, Myakka River (freshwater), Robinson Preserve tidal trails (Bradenton), South Lido Nature Trail.
Charter Services
Numerous charter captains operate out of Venice Inlet, New Pass (Sarasota), and Cortez Fishing Center (Bradenton). Half-day, full-day, and backwater guides available.
Dinner with a
Water View.
Gulf Coast dining is all about the view. Here are standout waterfront restaurants by community.
The Oyster Bar (Siesta Key Village), Ophelia's on the Bay (Siesta Key waterfront), Pier 22 (downtown bayfront), Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB, casual on the water), Dry Dock Waterfront Grill (Longboat Key).
Sharky's on the Pier (beachfront, Venice Beach), Fins at Sharky's (upscale), Crow's Nest Marina Restaurant (Venice Marina), The Table at the Mill (nearby, farm-to-table).
Casey Key Fish House (casual, on the water), Pop's Sunset Grill (Nokomis Beach, live music), The Nokomis Groove (beachside).
The Sandbar Restaurant (Anna Maria Island beachfront), BeachHouse Restaurant (Bradenton Beach), Waterfront Restaurant (Anna Maria), Rod & Reel Pier (original AMI fishing pier restaurant).
Imagine Waking Up
to This Every Day.
The best way to experience Gulf Coast living is to come see it for yourself. Let me help you find a home where the beach is just minutes away.