Visiting the Living Beaches of Manasota Key

The clearwater beaches of Manasota Key offer unforgettable experiences for those lucky enough to visit. From relaxing beach days spent looking for shells to captivating boat rides and sunset cruises; a visit to this region of the gulf can fill any itinerary.

Wildlife watching is especially popular here due to healthy habitats and a wide variety of plant and animal life. In fact, Manasota Key is ranked one of the best places in the Nation for coastal animal sightings. In this guide, we’ll be taking a closer look at the diverse plant and animal life found on the beaches of Manasota Key. Let’s dive in!

First, let’s talk about plant life—the quiet powerhouse of Manasota Key. The variety of flora both above and below the sea powers Florida’s ecosystem and keeps the local habitats thriving. Here are a few of the most noteworthy plants you’ll come across:

Mangroves: Covering over 1,800 miles of shoreline, Key West mangroves are an important part of Florida’s habitat. Their root systems help to prevent erosion by stabilizing the shoreline, and they provide food and nesting areas for local birds.
Southern Wax Myrtle: This remarkable shrub is located on the beaches and wetlands of Florida. Known for its colorful berries, it’s an essential part of the local ecosystem.
Saw Palmetto: This special palm produces a substance that helps with chronic pain recovery. The main root can be found along the beaches in Manasota Key.
Seagrass: Seagrass grows in many parts of Florida’s coastal waters. This incredible underwater plant is often used as an indicator of the ocean’s health, as it’s sensitive to changes in water quality and nutrient levels.

The waters that surround Manasota Key are brimming with marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling, diving, and fishing. Below are some of the creatures you might spot as you explore the coast:

Dolphins

Free-spirited bottlenose dolphins can often be spotted splashing in the waves near Manasota Key. These social creatures love to play and show off, making them especially fun to watch from the shore or a charter. You may even catch a large pod as it moves along the coast, so keep your camera ready!

Manatees

As gentle giants of the sea, manatees can usually be found in warmer waters. If you happen to catch a glimpse as they graze on seagrass or lazily float on the surface you’ll quickly realize why manatees are nicknamed “sea cows”. It’s important to note that manatees are a protected species and should not be approached.

Fish

Whether among the coral reef or hiding in seagrass beds, colorful fish found in these areas provide a breathtaking snorkeling experience. Grab some snorkeling gear and some flippers and prepare for a vibrant underwater display.

As the home to numerous coastal birds, Manasota Key provides a great opportunity for birdwatching. Be on the lookout for the following:

Snowy Plover: This short, plump bird can be seen running along the ground throughout the Manasota Key area, mainly on the shoreline.
Great Blue Heron: You’ll know this bird by its long legs and blue-gray feathers as it prowls the waters looking for fish and crustaceans.
Black Skimmer: With its long orange and black beak, this bird’s colorful appearance is easily recognizable—and a sight to behold.
Pelican: These birds are most recognized by their long bills, and are a favorite of our host, Scott. Pelicans can frequently be spotted right from the back porch of our bayfront rentals.

Past the crystal shoreline, Manasota Key is home to a variety of land-dwelling wildlife. Here are some creatures to keep an eye out for:

Otter: What’s cuter than a friendly otter? These playful creatures love the freshwater biomes of Florida and can be found near rivers, creeks, lakes, ponds, and swamps.
Raccoons: Known for scavenging at night, these raccoons are often spotted near wooded areas or beach access sites.
Bunnies: These small critters can be spotted hopping through dense foliage. The Eastern Cottontail rabbits are the most common type in Manasota Key.
Alligators: There is a large population of alligators in Florida, with numbers estimated at around 1.5 million. Alligators are Florida’s state reptile and they can be found in freshwater habitats, including rivers, ponds, and swamps.

While you explore the scenery of Manasota Key, keep conservation in mind and do your part to help protect the beauty of our home. Below are some tips on how to properly conserve and care for this coastal region:

Keep Your Distance: To avoid causing stress to marine life, maintain distance between yourself and any animals you come across. Use binoculars to get a close-up view without disturbing them.
Do Not Feed The Animals: Feeding the animals can disrupt their diets and cause stomach problems. Feeding them can also interrupt their natural caution around humans and contribute to unsafe interactions.
Respect Sea Turtle Nesting Areas: As mentioned above, respect the nesting areas and do not disturb them.
No Littering: We want to keep our beaches clean and healthy for years to come. Be sure to clean up after yourself and keep your trash with you until you find a waste basket.

After an exciting day exploring Florida’s living beaches, put up your feet and relax at our comfortable vacation rentals. Powered by The Hesse Team at Paradise Exclusive Real Estate, you can rest easy knowing your vacation is in good hands.

Our vacation rentals feature modern amenities and outdoor spaces with beach access. Enjoy beautiful waterfront views on your porch as you learn more from the Living Beaches books in each of our vacation rentals.

What are you waiting for? Book your stay today and prepare for an unforgettable seaside escape.