To Do

Inside Sarasota, FL the Nathan Benderson Park offers a variety of outdoor activities within 600-acres. This includes a 2,000-meter sprint rowing course and a regatta center. The Park began hosting regatta competitions in 2009.

In the waters of the park, there are many activities to enjoy. They have dragon boat paddling with monthly classes for ages 18+. Learn to Row 101 is another great course offered. This is a single 8-hour course. Paddleboards, kayaks, and bicycles are available for 2 and 4-hour rentals.

On land, the park offers yoga classes for all difficulties. Additionally, they have over 7 miles of shell and paved trails that can be walked, ran, skated, or biked on. They have many camps, as well, for all age groups. Camp Gladiator is one of their most famous which is a 4-week fitness program focused on strength training and full-body workouts. Each camp is 60 minutes long.

RC Boat mentor programs/competitions are another adventurous activity the Park offers. They race Soling One Meter boats around the North Lake and The Meadows, year around. Fishing can also be enjoyed from land or boat around Cooper Creek Lake and its neighboring ponds. There is no fishing permitted off docks or bridges. A fishing license is required.

NBP additionally offers rec days which are held on Regatta Island. You’ll have to opportunity to try stand-up paddling, kayaking, canoes, fishing, and sailing. Wednesdays are perfect for homeschool and virtual school students.