Tired of the Sand? Check Out These Awesome Parks to Explore Near Lido Key

When planning a Lido Key vacation, you’re in for a treat! This destination is one of the most welcoming and luxurious destinations in Florida, offering breathtaking white-sand beaches, delicious local seafood, unique shopping opportunities, and so much more. Plus, our selection of Lido Key vacation rentals are just a short drive away from tons of fun day trips to help you make the most of your vacation.

crane perched in tree

Explore Lido Key

While you’re definitely going to want to spend time on Lido Beach, you might get tired of the sand after a while. Your Lido Key rental is sure to be the next best place to enjoy amenities, but that doesn’t mean that you have to spend the rest of your vacation inside! There are tons of incredible parks in and around Lido Key where you can get in touch with nature and see some of the most beautiful sites that Florida has to offer. Here’s everything you’ll want to know before you head out! 

woman walking in Florida park

Oscar Scherer State Park

Situated in the middle of the bustling city is Oscar Scherer State Park, which provides a welcome oasis from the busy conditions of the outside world. This incredible nature park is home to some of Florida’s most breathtaking nature and offers tons to see and do, so you and your family can spend the entire day enjoying the activities here. 

Oscar Scherer State Park has 15 miles of trail for you to explore, whether you’re interested in going for a leisurely walk, a fun hike, or an exciting bike ride. As you head through the trails, you’ll be able to see incredible local bird species like bald eagles and Florida scrub jays. 

Not only can you have fun on dry land, but you can also enjoy activities in the water! This destination is great for swimming and escaping the heat of a summer day. You can also take a kayak or canoe out to paddle through the water, or you can cast your line to try to catch some fish. There’s truly no limit to the fun you can have at this stunning nature park. Plus, you’ll have access to amenities like a shower station, playground, visitor center, and more.

Oscar Scherer State Park is located at 1843 S. Tamiami Trail in Osprey. They are open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. until sundown. The parking fee is $5 per vehicle. 

Myakka River State Park

One of the biggest and oldest parks in the state of Florida, Myakka River State Park is full of incredible history and breathtaking nature to enjoy. The Myakka River, for which the park is named, flows through 58 square miles of park space, giving you and your family plenty of room to explore and relax. 

When it comes to wildlife watching, there’s almost no better place to be than this park. Of course, you’ll get to see bird species like osprey, herons, ibises, and roseate spoonbills as you stroll along the Birdwalk. But you can also see all kinds of other animal species like geckos, alligators, catfish, and more. And that’s not even to mention all the amazing plant life you’ll get to see as well! 

From fishing to cycling to paddling and more, Myakka River State Park offers all kinds of fun adventures. One of the most unique activities you can get involved in here is horseback riding! Riding a horse around the park is one of the best ways to get a great view of all the stunning nature around you. Myakka River State Park is also full of amenities like an amphitheater, concession stand, playground, plenty of parking, a picnic pavilion, and more. 

Myakka River State Park is located at 13208 State Road 72 in Sarasota. They are open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. until sunset. The parking fee is $6 per vehicle. 

Be Our Guest on Lido Key


If you’re searching for the ultimate place to stay in Lido Key that’s just a short drive from these parks and tons of other fun destinations, we have you covered. Whether you’re traveling with your sweetheart or vacationing with your kids, we’ve got the most luxurious and conveniently located vacation rentals you’ll find on the island. Our staff is happy to help you decide on a rental and tell you everything you’ll need to know about the area, whether it’s your first time or you come back every year. So, are you ready to book your trip? Contact us today to get started!

Lake Manatee State Park

Lake Manatee State Park only extends about three miles along the banks of Lake Manatee, but don’t let its small size fool you! This nature park is one of the most picturesque spots in the area and is a destination you definitely won’t want to miss out on. While there are no manatees at this park, there are tons of other incredible species to see, including tons of fish and birds. 

Of course, you’ll have the chance to participate in many of the other activities we’ve talked about already, like cycling, fishing, paddling, and more. Lake Manatee State Park is a particularly great place for boating since the river is quite calm and gives you the ultimate opportunity to enjoy your time on the water. You can also enjoy a fun picnic by the banks for a romantic occasion or an afternoon of quality time with your family. 

Lake Manatee State Park also has plenty of amenities for you to take advantage of. Visitors can have a meal in the picnic pavilion, launch their boats from the boat ramp, or let their kids run around at the playground. Pets are welcome as well, ideal for those traveling with their four-legged friends! 

Lake Manatee State Park is located at 20007 State Road 64 East in Bradenton. They are open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. until sundown. The parking fee is $5 per vehicle. 

Ted Sperling Nature Park in Lido Key

Finally, Ted Sperling Nature Park in Lido Key is a great place to be for those who don’t want to stray too far from their vacation rentals. This park offers a little slice of paradise right here on Lido Key, great for those who want to explore the local waters or simply relax on the shoreline.

For kayakers and canoers, this Lido Key park is a great place to be. The convenient kayak launches make it easy to get in the water, and there are tons of incredible sites to see all around you. Plus, there are convenient rental facilities located right within the park, so you can be headed through the mangrove tunnels in no time! 

On top of canoeing and kayaking, Ted Sperling Nature Park has plenty of other opportunities. View wildlife from the water or on land, enjoy a picnic in the pavilion, cast your line to try to catch a fish, or simply sit on the banks and soak up that Florida sunshine. The possibilities are truly endless! It’s no wonder this park is one of the most popular destinations on Lido Key. 

Ted Sperling Nature Park is located at 190 Taft Drive in Sarasota. They are open daily from 6 a.m. to 12 midnight.