�� BLIND PASS BEACH 6725 Manasota Key Road 941-861-5000 www.scgov.net/Beaches Drive along the tree-lined curves of Manasota Key Road to Blind Pass Beach, known to the locals as Middle Beach. There’s plenty of free parking and lots of room to spread out on the nearly 3,000 feet of Gulf beach. There is no lifeguard on duty. There are rest rooms, but no shops or restaurants nearby. Insider tip: Follow the parking lot away from the beach and you’ll find a nature trail and a playground. �� ENGLEWOOD BEACH/ CHADWICK PARK 2100 N. Beach Road 941-681-3742 (for reservations) www.charlottecountyfl.com/ CommunityServices/Beaches This is where the action is. Families, high school students, retirees, locals and visitors flock to this beach and the surrounding restaurants and shops. There is plenty to do besides worship the sun, including horseshoes, volleyball, basketball and a playground. Beach yoga and a sunset drum circle are open to all and can attract more than 100 people in season. With not a high rise or condo complex in sight, this bustling beach retains its charm and is especially popular at sunset. Insider Tip: There is a parking fee here and payment is enforced. PHOTO BY SUSAN SMITH �� STUMP PASS BEACH STATE PARK South end of Manasota Key 900 Gulf Blvd, Englewood 941-964-0375 www.floridastateparks.org/stumppass If you prefer peace and quiet to hustle and bustle, this is the beach for you, but get there early as there are only 40 parking spaces ($3 vehicle fee) at this mile-long beach tucked in between Lemon Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. There are nature trails where you might see gopher tortoises and shore birds. Oh, and unlike other area beaches, this park has specific hours: 8 a.m. to sunset. Insider Tip: This is a great place to find sharks’ teeth on the beach. �� DON PEDRO ISLAND STATE PARK Don Pedro Island, off the coast of Cape Haze (8450 Placida Road) 941-964-0375 www.floridastateparks.org/park/donpedro island This pristine island is accessible only by private boat. Dock on the bay side of the island to enjoy the mile-long secluded beach, fishing, snorkeling, swimming and wildlife. There is a $2 per person docking fee. QUALITY FLOORING GUARANTEED Carpet • Stone • Marble • Glass Enclosures • Granite Countertops GREEN PRODUCTS FREE ESTIMATES! 941-473-3730 2615 Placida Rd., Englewood, FL 34224 www.TazFlooringDesign.com Tues. & Thurs. Evenings For All Your Flooring Needs SINCE 1979 • LICENSED & INSURED NOW OPEN 2017 17
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