Most people driving through Sarasota County have no idea Casey Key exists. It gently sits between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway – a narrow barrier island with no traffic lights, no chain restaurants, and barely any large-scale commercial development. And that is precisely the point.
Casey Key is about 8 miles long and less than a quarter mile wide at most points. The beaches here are uncrowded, the sunsets are magnificent, and the pace is nice and slow, making it a cozy spot for a carefree getaway with someone you love.
If you are looking for the version of Florida that has not been overtaken by resort sprawl, this is it. In this post, we cover the best things to do on and around Casey Key, where to eat nearby, and answers to the practical questions most visitors ask before they arrive.
Things to Do on and Around Casey Key
Casey Key does not have a theme park or a shopping district. What it does have is access to some of the most unspoiled stretches of Gulf coastline in Sarasota County, along with plenty to keep you busy if you know where to look.
Nokomis Beach: Located at the southern end of Casey Key, Nokomis Beach is a county-maintained public beach with parking, picnic areas, and calm Gulf waters that are ideal for swimming. Wednesday and Saturday evenings bring free drum circles at sunset – a beautiful local tradition that has been going on for decades.
North Jetty Park: Sitting at the south end of Nokomis Beach, North Jetty Park is a favorite for fishing, kayak launches, and watching boats pass through the Venice Inlet. Dolphin sightings here are common, especially in the early morning.
Oscar Scherer State Park: About 15 minutes from Casey Key, Oscar Scherer covers more than 1,400 acres of Florida scrubby flatwoods. You can hike, kayak South Creek, or join a ranger-led birdwatching program. The park is one of the few remaining habitats for the Florida scrub-jay, and entry is just $5 per vehicle.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway along Casey Key are ideal for paddling. Several outfitters in nearby Venice and Nokomis offer rentals and guided tours through mangrove tunnels and tidal creeks. It is a genuinely peaceful way to see the island from the water side.
Golf at Calusa Lakes: About 10 minutes away in Nokomis, Calusa Lakes Golf Club is a semi-private 18-hole course designed by Ted McAnlis. Tree-lined fairways and Florida wildlife sightings make it worth the trip for anyone who likes to play while they travel.
Where to Eat Near Casey Key
The island itself is almost entirely residential, so dining means heading just off the key. The good news is you do not have to go far, and the options are genuinely good.
Casey Key Fish House: Just off the island on the Intracoastal side, Casey Key Fish House is a local institution. The menu is built around fresh Gulf seafood (grilled, blackened, or fried) served in a rustic outdoor setting where you watch boats go by. It fills up fast on weekends, so arriving early is a smart move.
Pop’s Sunset Grill: A tiki-style waterfront spot in Nokomis that leans into the Florida vibe with open-air seating, cold drinks, and solid seafood. Happy hour is popular here and worth checking before you go.
Sharky’s on the Pier: Located on the Venice Fishing Pier, this is the only restaurant in the area that sits directly on the Gulf. The views are hard to beat, and the upstairs deck is a great spot for sunset cocktails. Expect a wait on busy evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Casey Key
How to Get to Casey Key
Casey Key is accessible by car via two bridges: the Blackburn Point Road Bridge at the north end near Osprey, and the Albee Road Bridge at the south end near Nokomis.
There is no public transit that runs directly onto the island, so having a car is essentially required. From Sarasota, the drive is roughly 20 to 25 minutes. From Venice, plan on about 15 minutes. The island has a single main road running its length, so navigation is straightforward once you are on it.
What Is the Closest Airport to Casey Key?
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is the closest option, sitting roughly 30 to 35 minutes from Casey Key, depending on traffic. Tampa International Airport (TPA) is about an hour and 15 minutes north and offers significantly more flight options, which often means better fares.
How to Find Good Vacation Homes in Casey Key
Casey Key is almost entirely made up of private residences, which means vacation rentals are your primary accommodation option. That is actually a good thing. Renting a home here puts you on a pristine, residential island rather than in a hotel corridor. Most properties offer direct Gulf access, private pools, or Intracoastal views – often all three.
The best way to find a well-managed rental with reliable maintenance and local support is to work with a property management company that specializes in the Sarasota area. If you are looking for a home base that puts you close to Casey Key’s beaches and the broader area, we can help you find the right fit.
At Jennette Properties, we specialize in vacation rental management across Sarasota and the surrounding Gulf Coast communities. We know what makes a rental property worth booking and what makes a stay worth repeating. Browse our available vacation rentals or get in touch with our team to find the right property for your Casey Key getaway.
