The year-round sun and warmth of Florida makes it the ideal destination any time of year you need a break. It’s a popular place for “Spring Breakers” looking for a vacation full of sand, water, sun, and fun! The Sarasota and Bradenton area are mainland Florida destinations that provide the ultimate experience you’re looking for in your Spring Break activities in Florida. Not only do they have their own beaches, and plenty of Spring Break and year-round fun, they’re close to several barrier islands that offer a different beach vibe during your Florida adventures.
Beach Horseback Rides
Saddle up and head out on a Spring Break adventure. While a trail ride along area hiking trails is a “typical” experience, you can also take the experience up to the water’s edge. There are several companies in the area that provide horseback rides that stroll along the water on the beach. There are even some tours where the horses venture out into the water for an extra splash. Whichever company you choose, advanced reservations are required, and they’ll need details like rider height, weight, and age so they can pair each rider with the horse that best fits their needs.
Boat Tours
A great way to get to know the area you’ve decided to call home for Spring Break is to get out and explore on land and on water. While exploring on land is easy – just hop in your rental car or head out on foot, you’ll want to get familiar with the waters around the area, too.
There are several companies that offer tours of the waters surrounding Bradenton and Sarasota. Guides are full of information about the area’s history and ecology, meaning you’ll learn some interesting trivia while enjoying time at sea. Keep your camera ready and your eyes peeled for sea life like dolphins, manatees, rays, and more. Book a private tour for you and your loved ones and pack a picnic, including your favorite alcoholic beverages.
The Ringling
Art, history, circus memorabilia, gardens, a historic theater, and more are available to explore. The property preserves the legacy of John Ringling, one of the five brothers who formed the Ringling Brothers Circus, and his wife Mable. During your Spring Break visit, wander the property and include visits to the State Art Museum of Florida, two circus museums, an education center, the historic Ca’ d’Zan Mansion, Bayfront Gardens, and the historic Asolo Theater where you can see live performances. The grounds and gardens are always free to visit, and admission to the Museum of Art is free on Mondays.
Beaches
An escape to beach locations like Bradenton and Sarasota for Spring Break means spending plenty of time on the beach. Spend a little extra time out in the sun and maybe even take a dip in the Gulf! The sun has yet to reach the full power of summer, but the water has warmed up a bit. Sunbathe, change up your exercise routine with a walk or run on the beach, or take a swim, snorkel, or SCUBA adventure in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Breweries, Distilleries & Wineries
Set aside some “adults only” time and visit the several breweries and distilleries that call Bradenton and the surrounding area home. Include stops at Naughty Monk Brewery, Darwin Brewing Company, or Loaded Cannon Distillery, just to name a few.
Stop at Fiorelli Winery & Vineyard for the wine lovers of the group, where the wines are made from grapes grown at the on-site vineyard! Take a tasting or tour or book a special private event. Once you’ve tasted the offerings, choose your favorite wines, beers, or spirits to take home to pair with your next home-cooked winter meal.
The Keys
Off the coast of Sarasota, Bradenton, and the surrounding area is a group of barrier islands that protect Sarasota Bay from the harsher waves of the Gulf of Mexico. During your Spring Break visit this year, add Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key, or Siesta Key to the itinerary. Each island has its own unique flair, Spring Break activities, as well as plenty of Florida year-round fun like parasailing, boat tours, and more – all without the traffic and crowds of the mainland.
Enjoy These Spring Break Activities in Florida
Enhance your Spring Break this year with a trip to Bradenton and Sarasota and book a private vacation rental provided by Anchor Down Vacation Rentals. We offer units as small as one bedroom all the way up to eight bedrooms for a Spring Break reunion at the beach.
After a long day of Bradenton and Sarasota area fun, make a home-cooked meal in your unit’s fully equipped kitchen, and enjoy it in the spacious living/dining areas of your unit, or in a private outdoor space. Relax in a private bedroom or gather your group and watch your favorite movie or TV show.
Contact us today!