No Boat, No Problem! 4 Local Fishing Holes

No Boat, No Problem! 4 Local Fishing Holes

No Boat, No Problem! 4 Local Fishing HolesWho says you need a boat to visit some of the best local fishing holes in our area? While we are certainly boat lovers around here at Riviera Dunes Marina, sometimes it’s nice to walk up to a local pier or park along the shores or banks to drop a line and wait for the next big catch!Here are four local fishing holes for when you’re going boatless:South Lido ParkLocated on Big Pass shore, South Lido Park offers fun, fishing and more for the entire family. With ample parking, South Lido Park is also more secluded offering extra opportunities for fishing and quiet moments for you to relax. You will also discover pavilions, grills for picnicking and restrooms on-site.Point of RocksWhile there is less public parking at Point of Rocks in Sarasota, there are ample opportunities to cast a line . . . you just have to arrive a little earlier. Then, when you’ve had your...
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8 Tips for Boating with Your Pups

8 Tips for Boating with Your Pups

8 Tips for Boating with Your PupsYour dogs are like family, which is why it’s always fun to take them along for a joyride on the water every once in awhile!However, boating with your pups isn’t always a walk in the park. Here are eight quick tips to ensure that your boat ride is enjoyable for both you and your furry loved ones! Pack a collapsible, travel-friendly bowl that you can fill with fresh water for your pup. You can easily find these in most stores as well as online.While you’re at it, pack your pup’s food, treats and toys to make him feel at peace in a new environment.Take some time before your boat trip to get your pup acquainted with your boat.Make sure there is a shaded area on your boat. If you don’t always have a boat shade installed on your vessel, now’s the time when you’re boating with your pups. Shade keeps them from being dehydrated and...
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4 Events for Fall Fun in the Palmetto Area

4 Events for Fall Fun in the Palmetto Area

4 Events for Fall Fun in the Palmetto AreaNow that it’s officially fall, make sure you clear your schedules for all of the fall fun our area has to offer!From pumpkin festivals to art festivals, you’ll want to make sure you plan accordingly so that you don’t miss out.2017 World Rowing ChampionshipsWhen: Through Oct. 1.Where: Nathan Benderson Park.Admission: Starting at $10.There’s still time to check out the World Rowing Championships! Representing more than 60 countries, around 1,700 athletes and coaches have travelled to Sarasota’s own Nathan Benderson Park for a thrilling international regatta! This weekend, you can expect expos on local attractions, boating and fishing and health and wellness. Though the races officially started last Saturday, Sept. 23, there’s still time to catch the closing ceremony as well as special events including Row for the Cure in honor of cancer fighters and survivors on Sunday, Oct. 1.29th Annual Fruitville Grove Pumpkin FestivalWhen: Every weekend in October.Where: Fruitville Grove.Admission: Free.Join in for the annual pumpkin...
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Rainy Day Fun Near Riviera Dunes Marina

Rainy Day Fun Near Riviera Dunes Marina

Rainy Day Fun Near Riviera Dunes MarinaJust because the sun is on vacation for a day or so doesn’t mean the fun stops near Riviera Dunes Marina! There are plenty of activities that you and your family will enjoy when in Palmetto and nearby Sarasota . . . even when it’s a rainy day! From museums to the local family skating center, a rainy day in Palmetto will certainly be well spent.Head to the museum.From classics cars to sharks, the museums here will provide much fun, rain or shine. At the Ringling estate, visit the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art for nonstop rainy day fun! Here you can view 21 galleries chock-full of Renaissance and Baroque art as well as American contemporary art. In addition, head to the Circus Museum on the property, which is included in your art museum admission, to view authentic costumes and other neat treasures from “The Greatest Show on Earth.” At the Sarasota...
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6 Tips for Prepping for Hurricane Season

6 Tips for Prepping for Hurricane Season

6 Tips for Prepping for Hurricane SeasonDid you know that hurricane seasons runs through Nov. 30? Even if you don't live in the hurricane hot spots like Orlando or Jacksonville, it’s always good to keep in mind the precautions for hurricane season if you plan to vacation there. Here are six tips to make sure you’re ready for hurricane season.1. Plan ahead for emergencies.When you’re in the thick of hurricane preparation, it can be hard to gather your thoughts for what to do next. You’ll need emergency supplies for you and your family, insurance will need to be ready in case of an emergency, and you must have a plan for your vehicles in the event that you need to evacuate.2. Determine your hurricane season risk.How will your home stand during flooding or wind? Are there trees leaning toward your home? Flooding is known to cause the most damage to your home, and this is especially a greater risk during hurricane season. You can see how your...
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Don’t Miss these 4 Breweries near Sarasota

Don’t Miss these 4 Breweries near Sarasota

Don’t Miss these 4 Breweries near SarasotaCalling all beer lovers! The craft beer scene has taken off in the Sarasota and Bradenton areas! There are several breweries near Sarasota where you can have a brew, have a bite and enjoy beautiful Manatee County. Here are four breweries you do not want to miss during your visit.3 Keys Brewing and Eatery2505 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton3KeysBrewing.comThis family-owned brewery is known for their exquisite small-batch brews and fresh, wholesome menu! Unlike other breweries near Sarasota that partner with food trucks to provide delicious nosh, the folks at 3 Keys pride themselves in a well-rounded offering of appetizers, soups, salads, burgers and sandwiches. Bring the kids and pups and enjoy a visit at 3 Keys.Darwin Brewing Company803 17th Avenue West, BradentonDarwinBrewingCo.comInspired by exotic flavors and spices, Darwin Brewing Company translates this to their brews, too. From tropical pineapple and grapefruit notes in their Summadayze IPA to the Amazonian chocolate notes you’ll find in the Llama...
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4 Top Spots to Visit in Bradenton

4 Top Spots to Visit in Bradenton

4 Top Spots to Visit in BradentonThere’s never a dull moment when vacationing in Bradenton! Next to our beautiful beaches and year-round sunny weather, there’s an abundance of unique, top spots to visit while you’re in Bradenton.Manatee Village Historical ParkThe history of Manatee County truly comes alive with a visit to Manatee Village Historical Park. From historic buildings to artifacts, learn about decades of Manatee County’s rich history and pioneer life. In the park, peruse 14 buildings and exhibits including Wiggins General Store, Blacksmith Shop, The Settler’s House, The 1860 Courthouse and so much more. Little ones will also love the Junior Junction play area. In addition, the park hosts several special events throughout the year including lecture and craft shops! South Florida MuseumIf you’re a natural and cultural history buff, then you’ve come to the right place! As one of the top spots to visit while here, it’s also the largest museum of its kind on the sunshine state’s...
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5 Tips for Boating with Your Kids

5 Tips for Boating with Your Kids

5 Tips for Boating with Your KidsWith the holiday weekend approaching, it’s one of the best times of the year to go boating with your kids. Though, this is sometimes easier said than done. Save yourself from the stress, and look to these tips to prepare for boating with your kids of all ages!1. Make safety your No. 1 priority.Everyone must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved lifejacket or personal flotation device, including the tiniest members of your family. The little ones that are under 6 years old must wear their lifejackets at all times when aboard a recreational vessel less than 26 feet long. These are just a few of the Florida regulations for lifejackets. See the full list here to know the various types one must wear if on a Jet Ski or operating the vessel outside of Florida, for example.2. Pack more than enough supplies for your boat ride.When bringing the little ones and the youngsters, there are much...
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5 Labor Day 2017 Events Near Bradenton

5 Labor Day 2017 Events Near Bradenton

5 Labor Day 2017 Events Near BradentonLabor Day 2017 is right around the corner, and you do not want to miss all that will be happening near Bradenton. The holiday weekend will be chock-full of events from the annual Labor Day Regatta to an event dedicated to bacon and so much more!Check out our round-up of Labor Day 2017 events near Bradenton:71st Annual Labor Day RegattaWhen: Sept. 2, 9 a.m. to Sept. 3 at 4 p.m.Where: City Island, 1717 Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota.Admission: Free.Make way for the Sarasota Sailing Squadron’s grand event! Every year, competitive sailors from around the country and Canada gather in Sarasota for the annual Labor Day Regatta! Hundreds of sailors spanning ages 8–80 are expected at this year’s event. In addition to the five race courses, there will be live entertainment, food, beverages and an awards ceremony to commemorate the winning sailors. When Pigs Fly Bacon FestWhen: Sept. 2, 5–10 p.m.Where: JDub’s Brewing Company & Tap Room,...
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August 2017: Fun Things to Do in Sarasota

August 2017: Fun Things to Do in Sarasota

August 2017: Fun Things to Do in SarasotaLooking for fun things to do this month? While summer is nearly over, there are still plenty of things to do in the Sarasota area! Here’s your guide for weekend fun in the Sarasota area for August 2017.This weekend, Aug. 11–13, head to Historic Spanish Point in Osprey for a docent-guided walking tour! During this enriching tour, you’ll get to experience the history, architecture and nature of Old Florida. For home goods lovers, you’ll enjoy perusing the vintage and antique goods at Vintiquity Lane’s European-style, monthly market on Aug. 19–20. It’s also important to note that this market opens every third weekend of the month in Sarasota’s Design District, which is located at 1540 N. Lime Ave. At the market, you will discover repurposed, kitschy home treasures, clothing and other unique artifacts from yesteryear. Here are the upcoming market hours:Saturday—8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.Sunday—10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.If you haven’t heard by now, Venice, FL is known...
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