The year-round sun and warmth of Florida makes it the ideal destination any time of year you need a break. Enjoy a vacation full of sand, water, sun, and fun with loved ones when you head to the Sarasota and Bradenton area, a Florida mainland destination that provides the ultimate experience in Florida beach vacations with plenty of fun. While you’ll want to spend plenty of time outside, there will be times you need to “beat the heat,” and take cover in the shade, water or indoors and relax.
Beaches
An escape to a beach location like Bradenton and Sarasota means spending plenty of time on the beach, no matter what time of year you come. It’s one of the best ways to beat the heat. Spread your beach blanket and plant your umbrella for some time in the shade near the water. Step out into the sun and sunbathe or change up your exercise routine with a walk or run on the beach. If the shade of your umbrella isn’t enough, take a dip in the Gulf.
Breweries, Distilleries & Wineries
Take some “adults only” time and also beat the heat on a visit to the area’s wineries and distilleries. There are several distilleries that call Bradenton and the surrounding area home. Stop by venues like Naughty Monk Brewery, Darwin Brewing Company, Loaded Cannon Distillery, and more.
Wine lovers can make a stop at Fiorelli Winery & Vineyard. Their wines are made from grapes grown at the on-site vineyard. Go on a tasting or tour or book a special event. Once you’ve tried everything, choose your favorite wines or spirits to take back to your rental to pair with a home-cooked meal.
Boat Tours
A great way to get to know the area you’ve decided to call home for a while is to get out and explore. While exploring on land is easy – just hop in your air-conditioned rental vehicle, get familiar with the surrounding waters, too. There is an array of companies that offer tours of the waters of Bradenton and Sarasota.
Guides are full of information on area history, ecology, trivia, and more to add to your experience. Keep your camera ready and your eyes peeled for glimpses of sea life including dolphins, manatees, rays, and more! Book a private tour for you and your loved ones and pack a picnic. The air and water are a bit cooler out at sea, so you’ll get a break from the hotter weather near the shore.
Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Head indoors, beat the heat, and learn something new. Florida is brimming with some of nature’s best. From the beautiful scenery of the Gulf coast to inland lakes, from wildlife that live on land to the wildlife that live in the waters, Florida’s incredibly unique ecosystem is as enjoyable as it is educational.
For some indoor fun if the sun’s a little too intense – and a little learning – head to the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. Formerly known as the South Florida Museum, there are permanent exhibits as well as a variety of rotating exhibits, so no two visits will ever be the same! Visit the manatee habitat where you can learn about manatee rehabilitation and meet the manatees or visit the planetarium for a show that illuminates your whole universe.
Water Activities
If the waters of the Gulf seem to be calling your name, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy and beat the heat. Swim in the waves of the Gulf or take a lesson or rent some gear for activities like stand up paddleboarding or kayaking. Zip across the water on a jet ski or explore below the waves on a snorkeling or SCUBA adventure. Take to the water for a fishing excursion, either to the depths of the Gulf or just casting a line from the shore.
The Ringling
Art, history, circus memorabilia, gardens, a historic theater, and more all come together for an unforgettable experience. You’ll be able to explore all that and more when you visit. The property preserves the legacy of John Ringling, one of the five brothers who formed the Ringling Brothers Circus, and his wife Mable.
Wander the property and visit 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. The number and variety of interesting venues will allow you to beat the heat and explore the magic of the circus. The grounds and gardens are always free to visit and admission to the Museum of Art is free on Mondays.
Beat the Heat in One of Our Bradenton or Sarasota Rentals!
Beat the heat, relax, and enhance your vacation and book a private vacation rental provided by Anchor Down Vacation Rentals. We offer units as small as one bedroom for a sweetheart or solo adventure, all the way up to eight bedrooms for fun with all your loved ones.
Make a home-cooked meal in your unit’s fully equipped kitchen and enjoy it in the spacious living/dining areas or relax in a private bedroom. Gather the group and watch your favorite movie or TV show. Enjoy beautiful Florida weather and spend some time outside on a private patio, deck, or balcony, many covered and shaded from the heat.
Contact us today!