What to Bring to the Beach for Summer 2017

What to Bring to the Beach for Summer 2017

What to Bring to the Beach for Summer 2017Summer 2017 is officially here, school's out, and there's more time than ever to enjoy the sun and sand. Whether you're a local or a visitor to our beautiful beaches, it never hurts to brush up on what to bring to the beach! We hope you use this list to ensure that you don't leave the summer essentials behind for your beach day.Spare swimsuitBeach cover-up, sarong, dress, etc.Appropriate footwear: sandals, crocsLarge waterproof bag to carry the essentialsBeach caddy to carry larger items, toys, etc.Toys and floaties for the kidsSunglasses (it's great to bring extra in case you lose them in a rough wave!)SunscreenTowels or large blanketsChairsCooler packed with snacks and water bottlesReading materialNow that you know what to bring to the beach for summer 2017, here are some exciting events to look forward to during the next month: Through July 16—Garden Music Series: Don't miss this music series hosted by Marie Selby Botanical Gardens every...
Read More
3 Best Seafood Spots in Bradenton, FL

3 Best Seafood Spots in Bradenton, FL

3 Best Seafood Spots in Bradenton, FLWhen the craving for seafood begins, there's no stopping it until you visit one of the best seafood spots in Bradenton. From fresh oysters to steamed shrimp and more, the seafood spots in Bradenton abound, so there's something for every palate!Anna Maria Oyster BarServing more than just a delicious selection of fresh oysters, Anna Maria Oyster Bar is also known for their award-winning seafood. When you enter the oyster bar, you'll be welcomed into a laid-back and inviting environment that's also perfect for families. Some of the favorite items to order are the lobster bisque, chowder and coconut shrimp. Of course the oysters are superb, too. Enjoy them raw, steamed or fried, and you can even dress them up with parmesan and garlic. The oyster bar highly recommends their Grandma Georgie's Chipotle Oysters as well. End on the rum cake while you enjoy live music!Riverhouse Reef & GrillSitutated on a pier, it's no secret that...
Read More
Three Underrated Theme Parks Near Bradenton FL

Three Underrated Theme Parks Near Bradenton FL

3 Underrated Theme Parks Near Bradenton, FLWhile it’s no doubt that you and your family will have a magical time at Universal Studios or Disney World, there are some wonderful underrated theme parks nearby that you do not want to miss!The beauty of attending lesser-known theme parks near Bradenton is that there will likely be less lines and crowds for you to trek through. This of course means there will be more fun and more chances for you and your family to ride the roller coasters while on vacation! The best of all? These theme parks are located just a couple hours away from Bradenton making this a no-sweat day trip.Here are three underrated theme parks to visit near Bradenton.Fun Spot AmericaThe name clearly says it all with a title like Fun Spot America. While this theme park is located quite close to Universal Studios, Fun Spot America offers a completely unique experience. At this theme park, visit Gatorland to see live alligators, crocodiles...
Read More
Sarasota’s Siesta Beach is the #1 Beach in the U.S.

Sarasota’s Siesta Beach is the #1 Beach in the U.S.

Sarasota's Siesta Beach is the #1 Beach in the U.S.Sarasota's Siesta Beach has been awarded the No. 1 beach in the country by Professor Stephen “Dr. Beach” Leatherman! This is the second time that Siesta Beach has been acclaimed in the last seven years. It's no surprise to us here at Riviera Dunes Marina! With its glistening white sand, Siesta Beach is a beautiful beach to visit year-round! Visitors flock to the beach every year for the crystal clear waters, fantastic shelling opportunities and much more. The beach has also been renovated recently to offer more parking opportunities as well as a free trolley for beachgoers to utilize.Dr. Beach rates beaches from all over the country using 50 different criteria in order to score them for a total of 250 points. Siesta Beach scored a 238 out of 250 points! Some of the criteria included in the list are amenities, noise level, public safety, color of sand, number of sunny days and much more. The...
Read More
Where to Dine on the Water Near Palmetto

Where to Dine on the Water Near Palmetto

Where to Dine on the Water Near Palmetto, FLWith the long weekend upon us, there’s plenty of extra time to dine on the water near Palmetto!Our area boasts beautiful waterfront restaurants offering everything from tropical drinks to the freshest seafood entrees and more. You don’t want to miss all of the delicious places to dine on the water this Memorial Day Weekend and during the upcoming summer months!Here are 4 restaurants that offer magnificent waterfront dining:The Crow’s Nest After a day on the water, pull your boat up and finish the day in the Venice Inlet at The Crow’s Nest, where you will find a casual, yet fine dining experience. Enjoy offerings from the raw bar, soups and salads, the daily fresh catch and a plethora of steaks cooked to perfection. Dockside Waterfront GrillThe name says it all at Dockside Waterfront Grill! A local gem, enjoy views of the bay while dining in the open air atmosphere. For lighter fare, try...
Read More
5 Theaters to Visit in the Sarasota Area

5 Theaters to Visit in the Sarasota Area

5 Theaters to Visit in the Sarasota AreaWhether you have a love for theatre or are just looking for an exciting thing to do when taking a pause from the water, there are a variety of theaters here! Take a break from the sun this summer by seeing exciting productions at one of the many theaters we have here in the Sarasota area.Asolo Repertory TheaterEvery season, Asolo Repertory Theater presents up to 15 extraordinary productions ranging from classical to contemporary.Upcoming shows:Beatsville, through May 27Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, June 7–July 1Dog Days TheatreVisit Dog Days Theatre in its inaugural season this summer! Dog Days Theatre will produce modern plays featuring professional actors from the Sarasota area and the country as well as students from the FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training.Upcoming plays:Relatively SpeakingDouble Indemnity Florida Studio TheatreKnown for its hip and contemporary productions, Florida Studio Theatre is actually a campus of multiple, intimate theaters. Each of the theaters are small, but they create the perfect setting for...
Read More
5 Unique Things to Do on the Water in Sarasota, FL

5 Unique Things to Do on the Water in Sarasota, FL

5 Unique Things to Do on the Water in Sarasota, FLIn beautiful Sarasota, FL, it's easy to spend the whole afternoon on the boat cruising the glistening waters while simply enjoying the views. Though, there are also the days you may be looking for new activities and ways to enjoy our area by boat. Here are five unique things to do on the water in Sarasota, FL that include more than fishing and cruising—though those activities are just fine with us!Go snorkeling in seagrass.Snorkeling in seagrass is a beautiful and exciting way to spend your day on the water in Sarasota, FL. See if you spy spotted seatrout, pinfish or sea turtles having their lunch. Then, you may see majestic ospreys and pelicans while hovering over the water. Whatever neat creature you are lucky to spot, snorkeling is a special way to spend your afternoon in Sarasota.Explore the many sandbars nearby.Take your adventures out to the sandbars during low tide where you can see the water from a new...
Read More
Day Trip: 3 Best Bike Trails Near Our Marina

Day Trip: 3 Best Bike Trails Near Our Marina

Day Trip: 3 Best Bike Trails Near Our MarinaLooking for a scenic day trip idea? Just a short drive away from our marina are some of the best bike trails in all of Florida. From breathtaking panoramic views to the changing, exciting terrain, it’s a no-brainer that the bike trails near our marina are some of the best that our sunshine state has to offer.So when you’re yearning for a breath of fresh air, lace up your shoes, grab your water bottle, and head to three of the best bike trails near our marina.Legacy Trail and Venetian Waterway Park Beginning in Sarasota, enjoy an interruption-free ride (for 6 miles) along the Legacy Trail. This scenic trail dotted with waterways, forestry and parks continues into Venetian Waterway Park for a grand total of 21 miles. There are also access points to beaches, shops and restaurants, so there are a variety of places that will appeal to all interests. However, there is little shade, so you may prefer to...
Read More
4 Golf Courses near Riviera Dunes Marina

4 Golf Courses near Riviera Dunes Marina

4 Golf Courses Near Riviera Dunes MarinaStunning grasses, renowned fairways and breathtaking, panoramic views are just a few of the many attributes to describe the golf courses near Riviera Dunes Marina.When you’re taking a break from the water activities and beach days, head to the prestigious golf courses nearby. Though we can agree it’s hard to take a break from the water, you won’t regret soaking up the Florida sunshine at one of these beautiful golf courses near Riviera Dunes Marina.The Concession Golf ClubWith 520 acres, there is plenty of room to play a round or few at The Concession Golf Club, which was designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin. Secluded and shaded by 200-year-old oak trees, you’ll surely be comfortable even on the hottest summer days.University Park Country ClubAt this award-winning golf course, play 27 holes in the midst of the serene Sarasota scenery. Designed by the famed golf course architect, Ron Garl, the course is open to players for a daily fee as well...
Read More
Things to Do on the Water Near Palmetto, FL

Things to Do on the Water Near Palmetto, FL

Things to Do on the Water Near Palmetto, FLThere’s always an adventure awaiting you on the water near Palmetto, FL. Whether you’re parasailing with the breeze at your back or on an exciting tour in search of dolphins, the things to do on the water near Palmetto, FL are practically endless.From tranquil to thrilling, here are some of the best water activities you should try when you’re visiting Palmetto, FL.Stand-up PaddleboardingAre you looking for a full-body workout? Then try paddleboarding. Step onto a board, then use your balance and strength as you begin paddling at your own pace. Depending on the rental company, you can take your paddling up a notch and go on eco tours! KayakingSince the Palmetto area has a wealth of beautiful parks, there are optimal opportunities for you and your family to enjoy an afternoon of kayaking. Choose to go on a solo trip, or go with a group, as you explore the winding Manatee River.ParasailingFloat above the Gulf...
Read More