Marinas &
Waterfront Dining
Life on the Gulf Coast revolves around the water — and that includes where you dock your boat and where you watch the sunset over dinner. Southwest Florida's marinas range from full-service facilities for serious boaters to casual launch points for weekend fishing trips. And the waterfront dining scene? Some of the best meals I have had in this area have come with a side of bay breeze and dolphins passing by. Fall is the ideal time to enjoy both: the weather is still warm, the fish are biting, and the sunset views from a waterfront table are nothing short of spectacular.
Top Marinas in the Area
Whether you own a 30-foot center console or a 60-foot motor yacht, there's a marina that fits your needs along this stretch of coast.
Marina at Bayfront Park
Downtown Sarasota
The centerpiece of Sarasota's waterfront. This full-service marina sits at the edge of Bayfront Park, offering boat slips, fuel, and direct Gulf access. The surrounding park area hosts regular events, and the views of Sarasota Bay are hard to beat.
Bishop Point Marina
South Sarasota
A quieter, more residential marina with a loyal local following. Bishop Point offers excellent transient dockage and is popular with boaters who prefer a less crowded launching point for Gulf fishing trips.
City Marina of Venice
Venice
Located at the south end of the Intracoastal Waterway, Venice's city marina is a full-service facility with over 300 slips. It's the departure point for offshore fishing trips and a popular spot for watching the sunset from the seawall.
Pelican Pointe Marina
Venice
A newer, upscale marina facility with modern amenities and well-maintained docks. Pelican Pointe is popular with larger vessels and offers concierge-level service for seasonal boaters.
Casey Key Marina
Nokomis / Casey Key
Tucked away near the south end of Casey Key, this small marina is a hidden gem for inshore fishing enthusiasts. The nearby jetties produce some of the best snook and redfish action in the region.
Sarasota Yacht Club
Sarasota Bay
A private club offering full-service marina amenities, a clubhouse with dining, and a vibrant social calendar. Membership provides access to deep-water slips and organized sailing and fishing events throughout the year.
Where the View Is Part of the Meal
These restaurants share one thing in common: you can see the water from your table. Some are casual, some are refined, but all of them deliver an experience you can only get on the Gulf Coast.
The Old Salty Dog
Siesta Key Village · $$
A barefoot-in-the-sand classic. The Old Salty Dog is Siesta Key's iconic waterfront bar and grill — cold drinks, fried seafood, and a deck that faces the bay. It's touristy during peak season, but the locals know to go on a Tuesday evening in summer.
Mar Vista Dockside
Longboat Key · $$$
Understated elegance on the waterfront. Mar Vista's outdoor dining area sits right on the Intracoastal, with views of sailboats and kayakers passing by. The food is consistently good, and the atmosphere is relaxed without sacrificing quality.
Pattigeorge's
Longboat Key · $$$$
Fine dining on the water — not something you find often. Pattigeorge's combines Gulf-to-table seafood with one of the best waterfront views in the area. Sunset reservations are worth planning ahead for.
The Crow's Nest
Venice Marina · $$$
A Venice staple perched above the working marina. The deck overlooks fishing boats, dolphins, and the Intracoastal. The lobster bisque is legendary, and the daily fresh catch is always worth asking about.
Fins at Sharky's
Venice Beach · $$$
Steps from the sand with panoramic Gulf views. Creative seafood, craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere make this one of the most popular sunset spots in Venice.
Waterfront Dining at Marina Jack
Downtown Sarasota · $$$
Two floors of waterfront dining overlooking Sarasota Bay. The upper floor offers fine dining, while the downstairs is more casual. Both deliver excellent food and some of the best bay views in Sarasota.
Pop's Sunset Grill
Nokomis · $$
A Nokomis institution with a covered deck perched over the Intracoastal Waterway. The grouper sandwich is legendary, the key lime pie is the real deal, and the sunset views from the deck are worth planning your evening around.
Pelican Alley Restaurant
Nokomis · $$
A charming waterfront spot on Albee Road with a shaded outdoor deck overlooking the water. The menu features fresh seafood, pasta, and American classics in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Boating and waterfront living
If boating is part of the lifestyle you're looking for, I can help you find waterfront properties with dock access, deep-water channels, and proximity to the best marinas in the area.
Talk to Julie