Need recommendations on an overnight destination

[MartellFlorida]

Hello all,
The Admiral and I are taking a short cruise this weekend and I'm seeking suggestionson a nice marina between Sarasota and Clearwater. Thinking about the Hyatt inSarasota or Marina Jack. Anyone have any thoughts on those or a better recommendation?
We're looking for a lively atmosphere in close proximity to some beach typerestaurants. Any and all input is appreciated.

 

[BritLady]

Marina Jacks is a very popular spot and you can walk to many different types of restaurants even downtown SRQ is within easy walking. Marina Jacks also has their own lively bar near the docks and their fine dining restaurant above (have heard mixed reviews on the fine dining.) O'Leary's bar in the nearby park is also very popular. Have a great time wherever you end up!

 

[MartellFlorida]

Thanks for you reply. I think we're going to check it out this weekend. The weather looks great so we'll run down hte gulf. Does anyone have any experience or know any issues around entering new pass inlet?

 

[Bucit]

Run the ICW it's an easy ride and very few no wake zones between Tampa Bay and Sarasota. I make the run once or twice a year but usually stay at the yacht club. St. Armaands Cirlce is a close walk and many bars/restaurants there. I'm in St. Pete and it takes me about 2 hours to get there.

 

[wastinaweigh]

Marina Jack's will be a little livelier than the Hyatt since it is closer to downtown. The outdoor restaurant usually has a band until about 9:00 on the weekends, and the transient dock is right next to it. At the two inside restaurants, I highly recommend the Crabmeat Louis. More crab than salad and you just can't find it in very many places in Florida.

It is also a short run across the bay to the Old Salty Dog - you will see it to starboard just after you go under the bridge if you come in via New Pass. It is the most "beach type restaurant" that I can think of in the area that is accessable by boat. If you have a dog, they allow those.

Call Marina Operations (Marina Jack is actually the restaurant, not the marina) at 941.955.9488 and they can give you the latest nav info for New Pass. If the pass is closed, the website for the Sarasota Yacht Club has waypoints for entering Big Pass. Marina Operations also monitors 16 if you need real-time assistance navigating New Pass.

 

[MartellFlorida]

Thanks all,
Great intel.

 

[Mikemapva]

If the beach is important to you, you may want to stop on one of the barrier islands, Anna Maria or Longboat Key instead of all the way into Sarasota. On Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach Marina is very close to the beach, and easy walking distance to restaurants. There is also a free trolley that runs the length of the island if you wanted to try out other restaurants not within walking distance. The downside of that marina is it's proximity to the Cortez Bridge.

On Longboat Key, there is Longboat Key Moorings. It's a resort type of marina with a little bit longer a walk to the beach, but I believe they also offer free bicycles.

Just throwing out a couple other alternatives.

Mike