On the Water Activities in Sarasota | Anchor Down Vacation Rentals

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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 area. You’ll want to spend plenty of time outside, including in the water enjoying the many Sarasota activities the Gulf has to offer.

Swimming

You can’t really be “on” the water without first being in it. You’ll want to make sure your own and everyone else’s swimming skills can handle the waves of the Gulf before embarking on any other adventure in its depths. Stick close to shore for a leisurely swim, or swim out to deeper waters before following the waves back to land. Keep in mind even the most expert swimmers can encounter trouble further out in the water.

Remember to always watch children and inexperienced swimmers around water and have life jackets available to them before they enter the water.

Snorkeling

Unlike SCUBA diving where you swim below the waves to explore deeper into the underwater world, you can stick closer to the surface and still explore the wonderland that awaits below. Grab a mask and snorkel and get an up-close look at the many fish species and other marine life that call the waters of Sarasota and the surrounding area home.

If you’re heading out on a tour, ask about daytime or sunset tours, as well as gear rental for when you’ve built your confidence and want to strike out on your own adventures.

Jet Skis

For those looking to fulfill the ‘need for speed’ with adrenaline-pumping fun with loved ones, rent a jet ski and speed through the waves of the Gulf of Mexico at top speed. Choose from several companies that rent jet skis for a fast-paced time on water.

You may need to obtain a Florida boating certificate before piloting a craft, whether on your own or during a group tour. Some tour companies can help you with that before the adventure.

Paddle Sports

Paddle your way through the water on a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or canoe. Select companies offer lessons as well as rentals outside the lesson so you can explore Sarasota on your own.

You can also choose the unique activity of glow kayaking – a nighttime adventure aboard a clear kayak with special underwater-safe LED lights to light up the night. No matter the activity, make sure you have a life jacket.

Deep Sea Fishing

Charter a trip to the depths of the Gulf off Sarasota. There are several charter companies waiting to help you set sail in search of your next great fish story. Be prepared to hook grouper, snook, tarpon, snapper, and more.

Make sure to secure the proper Florida fishing license.

Boating

The activity can include several activities all in one! Rent a vessel and simply cruise the water or go on your own sightseeing tour of the Gulf. Rather than taking it slow, up the speed and adrenaline for more fun. Hook up a line for activities like tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing, knee boarding, and more.

Find a secluded spot and drop anchor for a swim. When you’re participating in a water sport, make sure to wear your life jacket. Pilots of boat rentals may need to secure a Florida boating safety certificate before taking the helm.

Surfing

Get a unique experience on the shores of the Gulf. Professional instructors teach you everything you need to know to catch your own waves, either on a regular surfboard, on a windsurfing adventure – or both!

Select companies offer rentals after the lesson, so you can continue to perfect your skills or take your adventure to your favorite spot in Sarasota or the surrounding area.

Fishing

If any of the anglers in your group would rather stick close to shore, you can let them know there are plenty of places and ways to drop a line and try their luck. Enjoy some surf fishing from the shoreline or ask the locals about their favorite spots. You may find grouper, snook, tarpon, snapper and others on your hook.

Your Sarasota Water Activity Home Base

Relax and enhance your water fun-filled vacation and book a private vacation rental in Sarasota provided by Anchor Down Vacation Rentals. We offer units as small as 1-bedroom for a sweetheart or solo water adventure, all the way up to 8-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.