Coquina Bay Walk at Leffis Key
Explore shimmering tidal lagoons, lush landscapes, rustic footbridges and boardwalks at Coquina Bay Walk at Leffis Key, a 17-acre water habitat at the south end of Anna Maria Island, opposite Coquina Beach. Listen to the wildlife and the wind as you discover blue crabs, whelks, ragged sea hares and many types of fish. At low tide, fiddler crabs and wading birds appear, making this one of the many popular stops along the Great Florida Birding Trail.Robinson Preserve/Palma Sola Botanical Park
Set on nearly 500 acres in northwest Bradenton, Robinson Preserve is a coastal and wetland habitat filled with native plants and new waterways that are restoring the salt marsh’s tidal flow. Take advantage of hiking, biking and paddling trails; a canoe and kayak launch; a 40-foot observation tower; boardwalks; picnic areas; and a visitors center. And don’t miss the bald eagle nests. One nest has its own “street,” allowing you to get a close (but not too close) look.
After hiking around the preserve, head to Palma Sola Botanical Park, across from the preserve entrance, to walk the lush, tranquil gardens planted with rare palms, flowers and fruit trees.Downtown Bradenton/Village of the Arts
Head to downtown Bradenton and stroll the riverfront, where you can pick out your next yacht before visiting Snooty, the oldest living manatee in captivity, at the South Florida Museum. Technically Snooty lives in the aquarium; there’s a planetarium at the museum, too.
A few blocks south is the Village of the Arts, a community of more than 35 artists who live in their galleries and work in their homes. ArtWalks take place the first weekend of every month: 6-9:30 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. That’s when you can walk from house to house, perusing the affordable fine art, jewelry, collectibles and other pieces (painted metal geckos are popular). The village is also home to a bookstore and several cafés.Heron’s Nest Nature Park/Braden River Nature Trail
Nestled in the communities of Lakewood Ranch in eastern Manatee County are two parks where you can stretch your legs and reconnect with nature. Heron’s Nest Nature Park is a relaxing retreat of meandering trails on Lake Heron and Lake Summerfield. And Braden River Nature Trail actually connects the trails of Heron’s Nest, so it’s like you’re getting two parks in one.
Pine Avenue/Anna Maria City Pier
Northern Anna Maria Island’s main thoroughfare, Pine Avenue, lets you leave the car or trolley behind and stretch your legs. Park near the Anna Maria City Pier(don’t forget to walk it, too; people fish off the pier, which attracts pelicans hoping for a snack, and manatees are frequently seen by diners at the City Pier Restaurant). Cross Bay Boulevard to get to Pine Avenue, which is lined with local eateries, charming shops and the Anna Maria Historic Green Village. This new-old development features cottages built in the early 1900s, which help bring Old Florida back to life. Before you return to your car, stop at Anna Maria Bayfront Park for its shaded beach, calm waters and great views.
Greer Island (Beer Can Island)
If you’re looking for solitude, walk Greer Island – also known as Beer Can Island – on northern Longboat Key. It’s a bit of a hike, but you’ll appreciate the effort once you arrive. There are no facilities, so you’re likely to share the wide beach with plovers, sandpipers and other birds looking for a meal at the surf line. If you’re a shell seeker, walk this secluded beach at low tide in the morning.
