Just a few minutes away from all the hustle and bustle of Sarasota is our favorite local beach, Turtle Beach. It is only a few short miles from the main Siesta Key beach to Turtle Beach and the Sarasota County trolley will drop you right there. Not only is this area such a beautiful and quiet place, it is also a great place to paddle!
We start on the intercostal and paddle down a short canal to the Bay. We paddle around the mangrove islands through a mangrove tunnel or two and alongside a bird rookery.
We paddle around the mangrove islands of Jim Neville Marine Preserve and then to a "secret" beach. This beach is only accessible by boat so we may have it to ourselves. Such a beautiful place for a quick swim or just stopping for a few moments to relax. You may want to stay here all day.
This location is home to all kinds of wildlife including manatees, dolphins, beautiful sea and shorebirds and lots of fish.
Public transportation options are available nearby. Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We meet at the Turtle Beach Public Boat Launch.
Once you enter Turtle Beach park, go straight until the stop sign. Turn left. The public boat launch will be on your left.
Find parking anywhere inside Turtle Beach Park.