Florida’s Gulf Coast: 8 Outdoor Experiences to Add to Your Itinerary

I never thought I would find myself boarding a flight to the gulf coast of Florida every year for our Spring Break week. However, when my in-laws live across the street from one of the most beautiful beaches in the state, walking distance to a village filled with quaint alfresco dining and old-fashioned ice cream, I’ll spend hours scouring every airfare aggregator for an affordable, non-stop flight for our family of five.

After several years visiting the stretch of sandy bliss outside of Sarasota known as Siesta Key, I’ve spent a lot time venturing beyond the beach to discover what else this side of the Sunshine State has to offer. From Tampa to Turtle Beach, here are some of my favorite finds for families seeking new ways to experience this popular coastal paradise:

1.     Sifting for shark teeth at Caspersen Beach. Located in the beach town of Venice, Caspersen beach is not only a great spot for shelling, it’s also a hotbed for hunting for prehistoric shark teeth. Local preservation has kept this stretch of sand to its natural state, offering a secluded feel compared to the more populated beaches lined with lodging.  Be sure to bring the proper tools, namely anything that can be used to scoop and sift. Kids and adults alike can spend hours on the hunt for these tiny treasures, and they make the perfect souvenirs. Arrive early in the day for the best parking options and check out the tide times when you visit for your best shot at bringing in a big loot.

2.     Mangrove tunnel kayak ecotours on Lido Key. One of the best ways to experience water, wildlife and the beauty of the local ecosystem is from a kayak. Local tour operators in Sarasota offer experiences suited for the entire family that will take you into the shallow protected waters of Lido Key, where you’ll paddle through enchanting mangrove tunnels with the chance to see dolphins, manatees and other sea life. These are popular tours, so book in advance for ample availability.

3.     Sunrise shelling + Meaney’s mini donuts. In Florida, the early bird gets the…best shells. It’s worth waking up before the dawn to walk the barefoot stretches for shells and sand dollars. Take a bag or box to fill with your finds and enjoy the beautiful hues as the sun rises behind you. And be sure to reward your early-morning-self with a stop in the Siesta Key village at Meaney’s walk-up window for their made-to-order mini donuts and coffee. With flavors like peanut butter cup and Bavarian cream, you’ll be back for more before your vacation ends.

4.     Baseball and fireworks. Whether your favorite MLB team plays in the Grapefruit league, or you’re just looking for a relaxing evening outdoor activity, you’ll find plenty of opportunity to take in a game on the gulf coast of Florida. From Sarasota and nearby Bradenton, north to Tampa and south to Fort Myers, when Spring Training games are in full swing, you can snag affordable tickets nearly any day of the week for a night of laid-back family entertainment and enjoy a full fireworks display. Be sure to check out the local ballpark websites for info on new Covid-19 protocols for social-distancing and purchasing tickets.

5.     Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium – If you’re looking to learn more about the local marine-life, a visit to this world-renowned research laboratory and aquarium is a must-do. From interactive exhibits to educational excursions, visitors of all ages will find this experience rewarding and enlightening. Kids will love the chance to get up-close to sharks, manatees, sea turtles and fish, among the more than 100 species of animals that call this Longboat Key facility home.

6.     Cuban coffee, cigars & vintage shopping in Ybor City. The gulf side of Florida isn’t exactly known for its historic neighborhoods, but if you head to Tampa for the day, this one is well worth exploring. Ybor City (pronounced “EE-bore”) was founded in 1886, is the only neighborhood on the state’s west coast designated as a National Historic Landmark District and is full of influence from its many immigrant founders, from Italy to Cuba. Whether you love history, coffee, cigars, architecture, food, shopping or simply strolling, you won’t be disappointed in an afternoon spent here.  

7.     Siesta Key sunset electric bike ride. If you don’t find a way to experience the stunning sunsets here, you’re missing out. Sure, you can sit on the beach, glass of wine in hand and take it in. I highly recommend that. Also consider the various views you’ll get via a bike ride along the soft sand of Siesta Key. For even more peddle power, book an electric bike tour with one of the local tour companies and put in as much – or as little – effort as you enjoy the fiery beauty and refection of these western skies.

8.    Cruise to Cabbage Key. For a charming Old-Florida experience, consider renting a boat for a day-trip to tiny Cabbage Key for swimming, dolphin-watching and a good meal. Located in Pine Island Sound, this historic island is home to a Calusa Indian archaeological site dating back to 100 B.C and now houses an inn and restaurant. Plan your day around dining in the open-air restaurant in the Old House. Hike the key’s nature trail and bring your own fishing pole, novel to read, or easel and paint. Cabbage Key is all about the simplicity of relaxing the way you were meant to on vacation.