🌿 A Day Trip to Myakka River State Park: Nature’s Beauty Just Beyond Sarasota
Sometimes it’s fun to trade the beach for a little wilderness, and one of our favorite places to do that is Myakka River State Park. Just a short drive from Trish’s Beach Retreat in Sarasota, this beautiful park is one of Florida’s oldest and largest, with more than 37,000 acres of unspoiled wetlands, oak hammocks, and prairies to explore.
Recently, we spent the day there with Trish’s niece Christi and her kids, and it turned into such a memorable family outing!
A Scenic Start
The adventure begins as soon as you enter the park. The 7-mile scenic drive winds through shady oak hammocks and open grasslands, and we rolled down the windows so the kids could point out birds and wildlife along the way.
Wildlife Encounters
Of course, one of the biggest draws at Myakka is the wildlife. We spotted several alligators sunning themselves on the banks of the river (which fascinated the kids), along with herons, egrets, and even a wild turkey strutting across the road. Binoculars definitely came in handy!
The Canopy Walkway Adventure
The highlight of the day was the Myakka Canopy Walkway. Christi’s kids loved crossing the suspension bridge high in the trees—it felt like a mini jungle adventure. At the end of the bridge, we climbed the 74-foot observation tower together. The view from the top was absolutely breathtaking, stretching out across the prairies and wetlands as far as we could see. The kids thought it was “like being on top of the world,” and we have to agree!
More to Explore
- Boat Tour: There is also aMyakka airboat tour, which gives you a closer look at the lake and plenty of alligator sightings.
- Picnic Lunch: After exploring, we enjoyed a picnic together. It was the perfect break before the kids were off running down a nearby trail.
- Hiking & Kayaking: With over 30 miles of trails and plenty of spots to paddle, there’s so much more we’ll come back to explore next time.
Tips for Your Visit
- Arrive early—wildlife is most active in the morning.
- Bring comfy walking shoes, sunscreen, and bug spray.
- Pack a picnic and plenty of water—the kids loved having a lunch break outdoors.
- Don’t expect perfect cell service—part of the fun is truly unplugging.
A Perfect Balance to the Beach
While we love the soft sands and turquoise waves of Siesta Key, Myakka River State Park offers a completely different side of Florida—wild, natural, and full of surprises.
Our day with Christi and the kids was filled with adventure, laughter, and some unforgettable views from the treetops. If you’re visiting Sarasota and want to mix things up, a trip to Myakka is a must. Whether you’re spotting gators, crossing the Canopy Walkway, or just soaking in the peace of nature, it’s an experience the whole family will treasure.
