Girls Weekend Getaway in Manasota Key

Ready to escape with your girlfriends for a weekend of sun and fun? South of Sarasota is the low-key barrier island of Manasota Key and, on the mainland, neighboring Englewood. 

With an Old Florida vibe, tons of waterfront dining options and an array of activities on and off the beach, Sarasota County's most southern key and its surrounding coastal communities are a sublime spot for a memorable girls getaway. So grab your besties and pack your bags – a Manasota Key vacation is calling.

What to Do

There's plenty to do on Manasota Key, from renting a kayak or paddleboard to hunting for shark teeth – and, of course, hitting the beach. Hit up the public Blind Pass Beach, Manasota Beach or Englewood Beach at Chadwick Park. Or, depending on where you stay, your resort may have its own private beach. Whether you're lounging with a beach read, hunting for seashells or wading in the clear blue waters, the beach is the perfect place to unwind and have some laughs with your girlfriends. 

After a day of sun, treat yourselves to pampering at a local spa. The nearest resort and day spas are located on the mainland and offer everything from salt caves to cryo therapy, plus traditional massages and facials. 

Where to Eat

Palm Island Resort is home to the tropical Rum Bay Restaurant right on the island. Open for lunch and dinner, indulge in local catches, fresh salads and nightly specials with an island flair. In the mornings, you and the girls can head to Coconut Café for flavored coffees and fresh-baked pastries and breakfast sandwiches. 

Off Cape Haze, head to Manasota Key to enjoy an abundance of fun, lively waterfront restaurants, including Lock 'N Key Restaurant & Pub, known for its seafood dishes, cocktails and live entertainment. Meanwhile, SandBar Tiki & Grille is a festive tiki bar across from the beach with live music, frozen drinks and cozy firepits to keep you warm after the sun sets.

For upscale dining on the water, head to The Waverly Restaurant & Bar, offering a raw bar and crudo menu, an impressive cheese board, a nice wine selection and a deck with unobstructed ocean views. 

Where to Shop

On the mainland, don't miss an abundance of shopping by heading to Olde Englewood Village's Dearborn Street. Stroll the historic street for an eclectic mix of clothing boutiques, art galleries, home decor stores and gift shops. Browse for souvenirs, locally made treasures and stylish beachwear to remember your girls weekend. Vino Loco Wine Bar, Tapas & Bottle Shop is a great spot to stock up on bottles of wine to bring back to the resort.

If you happen to find yourselves on Dearborn Street on a Thursday morning, you'll be able to enjoy the Englewood Farmers Market (Oct–May) at Pioneer Plaza. Snag a basket of local produce, gourmet baked goods, local honey and maybe even a Florida-native plant to take home as a reminder of an unbeatable weekend with your gal pals.