10 Things to do around Lido Key
Gorgeous and tranquil Lido Key offers more than just proximity to the popular Siesta Beach. Here are ten things that make this lesser-known strip of sand a worthy destination of its own.
1. Eco-Paddle
Get lost amid the labyrinth of mangrove tunnels and explore their unique ecosystem aboard a rented kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
2. Cup or Cone?
Go on an ice cream tasting tour of St. Armand’s. Hint: the chocolate peanut butter cup at Kilwin’s is a worthy contender for best ice cream
3. Refresh and Refuel
Enjoy an outdoor feast of 1904 Salad and sangria at Colombia Restaurant. Nothing quite hits the spot after a day of sun and shopping.
4. Wade for a Lunker
Grab a pole and some bait and fish on the beach for whiting, snook, jacks, sheepshead, mackerel, maybe even a shark! Don’t feel like getting wet? Head out to Ken Thompson Parkway.
5. Frolic at the Park
Venture to the end of the Key and spend a day at South Lido County Park. Grill up some burgers, play some volleyball, and watch the boats pass from this secluded party park.
6. Embrace Your Gillian
Walk south down the sand – not the road - and grab a drink at the Lido Key Tiki Bar. Doesn’t get much more Florida than walking down the sand to a palapa-covered bar and enjoying a cool drink in your swimsuit and bare feet.
7. Catch a Wave
Lido is the area’s best bet for surfing. The calm waters of the Gulf are perfect for beginners or those who want to simply enjoy the tide-riding show.
8. Don’t Go Anywhere
Stay at the Lido Beach Resort. Beach – check. Pool – check. Great restaurant – check. Bar overlooking the beach – check. Sunset from your window – check. You never need to leave.
9. See the City from a New View
Trek across the Ringling Bridge and enjoy the stunning views from the top. Keep an eye out for manatees, tarpon, sting rays, and dolphins.
10. No Shirt, No Shoes, No Problem
Walk a few steps from your beach blanket and enjoy a Lido Lobster roll and sweet potato fries at Lido Beach Restaurant. Make the kids happy with a PB&J, grilled cheese, or bag of chips. Just please don’t feed them to the seagulls.
