Florida’s scenic southwest Gulf coast has an abundance of both active and peaceful waterways, but most are seldom crowded. From Sarasota to Charlotte Harbor and Naples to the south, there are plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities in addition to the great inshore fishing. Aquatic offerings include swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, kayaking, boating, sailing, surfing, water skiing, jet skiing, nature cruises, offshore trolling, party-boat charters and beach fishing.
There is always plenty to do when off the water. Check out the remote barrier islands, harbor shoreline walks, surrey bike rentals, Gulf sunsets and great dining in the numerous coastal communities located in this 100-mile stretch of bays, harbors, passes, creeks and rivers.
In the Sarasota area, the Ringling Museum (ringling.org) celebrates the history of the circus at the complex spread over 66…