Discover Sarasota’s natural beauty, its unique wildlife and habitat that beckons to residents and visitors alike as you explore the beautiful waterways of this county.

Click on an area to view more information and get a detailed trail map.

There are twelve area waterways to explore with suggested blueways (paddling trails). The trail systems from the northern area of Sarasota County going south are as follows: the Sarasota Bay Trail, the Lido and South Lido Trails, the Phillippi Creek Trail, the Neville Marine Preserve Trail, the South Creek Trail, the Dona Bay/Roberts Bay Trails, the Caspersen Trail, and the Lemon Bay Trail. The last three trails in this guide are systems that are located in the eastern part of the county: the Cooper Creek Trail, the Myakka River/Carlton Trail and the Myakka River/Myakkahatchee Creek Trails.

Each paddling trail has detailed directions to Launch Points. Each trail includes suggested Short Trips, Navigational Notes and Paddle Tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.

Points of Interest that can be enjoyed while on your journey are included for each trail. Site descriptions list related activities and amenities such as picnicking, birding, nature trails, fishing piers and camping, as well as sightseeing, historic and cultural sites.

Sarasota County has a uniquely diverse blend of natural areas to explore while paddling the blueways. Paddle through a mangrove forest and view the wildlife of the estuaries. Paddle along the bays, bayous, lagoons and creeks and also explore the natural areas of Florida’s designated “Wild and Scenic” Myakka River.

It has been said that in life, the journey is more important than the destination. This is a guide for your journey....to explore beyond the Florida you know. So take a journey and enjoy Sarasota County and all it has to offer.

To locate a copy of this guide, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000.