Boat, Meet Sandbar: A Guide to Sarasota’s Hidden Islands

For those keen to explore Florida's Gulf Coast beauty from the deck of a boat or anchored ashore a remote (albeit, temporary) island, Sarasota’s sandbars offer an experience beyond the 40 miles of coastline. 

Most sandbars are exposed only at low tide but are submerged when the tide rises. These isolated oases, accessible almost exclusively by boat, are not just a place to drop anchor and explore, but a place to connect with the local boating community. From sunbathing and shelling in the gulf to waterside picnics and holiday parties in the bay, these Sarasota sandbars—listed from north to south—do not disappoint. 

Longboat Pass: Where Socializing & Seclusion Meet

Tucked between the northern end of Longboat Key and the southern tip of Bradenton Beach, Longboat Pass Inlet encompasses Jewfish Key, a small, private island partially developed with private residences. The sandbar and shallow waters off the key are open for public enjoyment, and has become a favorite spot for boaters looking to escape the hustle and bustle of mainland life for a more secluded domain while meeting or linking up with like-minded boaters in search of the same. 

Just a stone's throw away, you can make a stopover at the elusive Beer Can Island. Though not technically an island, it's easiest to access by boat (access is limited at high tide for beachgoers on foot) and offers a rugged oasis of rocky tidepools, driftwood formations, wildlife habitats and billowing trees for shade. 

New Pass: A Scenic Backdrop at Every Angle

Nestled between Longboat Key and Lido Key, the sandbar that forms just beyond the New Pass Bridge that connects the two keys offers a scenic escape with a panoramic view of the downtown skyline and beyond. Shaped by the drop in tides, these sandbars are a favorite among local boaters, and a perfect spot if timed right to hang for the day before docking up for a bite to eat or drink at The Old Salty Dog. Grab your fishing bait and gear next door at New Pass Grill & Bait Shop or paddle over to the nearby Ken Thompson Park and its neighboring mangroves. 

Sarasota Big Pass: The Gateway to Adventure

Dividing Siesta Key from Longboat Key, Big Pass is known for its strong currents and shifting sands where the bay meets the gulf. Playing host to a number of dynamic and ever-changing sandbars, this area is a bit more challenging to navigate, making it a popular spot for more experienced boaters. However, the rewards are well worth the effort, as Big Pass offers some of the best fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities in the area. Big Pass remains a favorite among seasoned boaters and those looking for a bit of excitement on the water.

Sharker's Island: Where the Party Never Ends

Located just a short boat ride from downtown Sarasota and Marina Jack, boaters are drawn to Lido Key's easily accessible stretch of shoreline. And just a quarter mile east of Ted Sperling Nature Park (the southernmost tip of Lido Key) is a unique bayside sandbar that forms in more brackish waters near Big Pass. The sandbar has become a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors, creating a lively atmosphere that’s a stark contrast to the solitude of other sandbars. Sharker's Island is the place to be if you’re looking for a fun and social boating experience, and can also be accessed by kayak from the launch at South Lido Park.

Sand Dollar Island: A Beachcomber's Paradise

Accessible only by boat and visible mostly during low tide, the world-famous Sand Dollar Island offers an alternative to the popular public beaches of Siesta Key. The temporary gulfside island sits just off the northern coast of Siesta Key near Big Pass, and draws swimmers, snorkelers and sea life enthusiasts alike. Its rise of crystal-quartz sand and surrounding emerald-green waters make it a haven for inner tube relaxation, tiki bar stopovers and, yes, sand dollar hunting. 

Sandbar Activities:

• Beachcombing & Shelling: The shallow waters around the sandbar are ideal for beachcombing and searching for seashells, coral, shark teeth or sand dollars. You can spend hours sifting through the soft, white sand for treasures washed ashore.
• Snorkeling or Free Diving: The clear, shallow waters surrounding sandbars are teeming with marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Throw on your mask and fins, put up your dive flag and discover an underwater world of colorful fish, starfish, hermit crabs, sea urchins and more. 
• Sunbathing & Picnicking: Fold out a beach chair to work on your suntan or pack a cooler with some snacks and beverages, and enjoy a leisurely picnic on the sand—away from the crowds of public beaches. The serene surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing nap or meal.
• Fishing: Sandbars are a prime fishing spot, thanks to the strong currents and deep channels that bring in schools of fish. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of species from their boat or wading in the shallow waters. (Please be aware of swimmers when casting your line). 
• Wildlife Viewing: The warm waters of Sarasota Bay and Gulf of Mexico attract a diverse array of native wildlife. Keep an eye out for dolphins cruising along, manatees lazily swimming by, a variety of seabirds diving for their next meal and fish swimming by. 
• Exploring Mangroves or Nearby Islands: Many of these sandbars are located near several other small, uninhabited islands that are perfect for exploring, as well as south Florida's iconic mangroves. Drop anchor and take a dinghy, SUP or kayak where you can discover more hidden beaches, tidal pools and unique ecosystems.
• Socializing: Sarasota's sandbars are known for their festive nature. On weekends and holidays, the area becomes a lively gathering spot where boaters anchor and mingle with other beachgoers. It’s not uncommon to see makeshift parties with music, water hammocks and inflatable tubes tied together, barbecues and boat dogs making friends with one another.

Boating Tips & Things to Consider:

• Boating Challenges: Navigating Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico can be tricky, especially for those unfamiliar with the area's waterways and channels. The currents can be strong, and tidal changes shift frequently throughout the day so sandbar accretions create new challenges each time you visit. However, for experienced boaters, this adds an element of adventure to the trip. 
• Watch the Weather: Weather on the water can change rapidly—especially in south Florida and in the summertime! Always check the forecast before you go out boating and keep an eye out for storms or rough seas.
• Renting a Boat: There are a number of area boat rentals for you to captain your own trip to the sandbars. Before operating a watercraft, be sure you fulfill the Florida Boating Regulations and familiarize yourself with the area's tides, channels, boat traffic and restricted speed zones.
• Let the Locals Lead: Another option, if you're not confident in your boat driving or navigtion skills, is to book a private charter, booze cruise or boat tour. From catamarans and sailboats to yachts and speedboats, tours and charters take the stress off you so licensed captains with local knowledge can venture to the sandbars for you and your party! 
• Pack it in, Pack it out: Please leave the sandbar and our beaches as you found them. Remember to pack out all your trash and belongings to keep this natural area pristine and protect our marine life. 
• Beat the Crowds: It's smart to get an early jump and arrive early to secure a spot at the sandbar, as they tend to get busy (especially during season or on weekends/holidays). If you're trying to avoid crowds altogether, popular sandbars, such as the ones mentioned, might not be the best option. There are also many smaller, less-crowded sandbars—mostly unnamed. With some satellite searching of the area or ol' fashioned adventuring, you can find your own personal sandbar that suits you.