Top 5 Sandbars and Islands to Explore by Boat Near Nokomis

Nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Nokomis is a gem for boating enthusiasts looking to explore natural beauty, serene waters, and hidden getaways. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day under the sun or an adventure with snorkeling and wildlife sightings, the waters near Nokomis offer a stunning array of sandbars and islands. These locations are only accessible by boat, making them ideal for those who crave escape from the usual beach crowds. Here are the top five sandbars and islands near Nokomis to add to your boating itinerary.

Snake Island: A Local Favorite with a Colorful Past

Located at the mouth of the Venice Inlet, Snake Island is a man-made island that has transformed into one of the most beloved boating spots in the region. Despite its ominous name, there’s nothing threatening about this sunny slice of paradise. The island was originally created as a byproduct of dredging the Intracoastal Waterway and has since become a hotspot for boaters, kayakers, and paddleboarders.

Snake Island is best known for its shallow, sandy shores where boats can anchor easily and visitors can wade through the clear waters. The island has no facilities or services, but that’s part of its appeal—it’s raw, undeveloped, and ideal for those looking to picnic, swim, or socialize with other boaters. On weekends and holidays, it transforms into a floating party scene, but during the week, it remains peaceful and relatively secluded. Dolphins often make appearances nearby, and the sunset views over the Gulf are nothing short of magical.

Midnight Pass Sandbar: A Disappearing Treasure

Just north of Nokomis, nestled between Siesta Key and Casey Key, lies the ever-shifting Midnight Pass Sandbar. This natural formation is constantly reshaped by tides and currents, making every visit slightly different from the last. Once the site of a navigable waterway separating Siesta Key from Casey Key, the original Midnight Pass closed in the 1980s due to erosion control efforts. What remains is a long, pristine stretch of sand that surfaces during low tide.

Boaters often anchor on either side of the pass and wade to the sandbar, which is ideal for sunbathing, shelling, and even throwing a frisbee. The surrounding waters are shallow and calm, perfect for children or dogs to splash around safely. Because of its dynamic nature, Midnight Pass offers a unique experience each time, and the lack of commercialization keeps it wild and beautiful. It’s an idyllic spot for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking solitude with a view.

North Jetty Island: Wildlife and Wave Watching

Adjacent to Snake Island and accessible via the Venice Inlet, North Jetty Island is a lesser-known but equally stunning destination. While the mainland portion is known as North Jetty Park and accessible by car, the island portion can only be reached by watercraft. It offers boaters a front-row seat to both the tranquil Intracoastal Waterway and the sometimes-rowdy Gulf surf.

The northern tip of the island is great for wave watching, and it’s not uncommon to see surfers catching swells or pelicans diving for fish. Dolphins and manatees frequent the area, and the mangroves provide shelter for a variety of bird species. While the park side has amenities like restrooms and concessions, the boat-only areas are quieter and more rugged. Pack your cooler and snorkel gear—there are plenty of nooks to explore, especially during a falling tide when tidal pools emerge.

Lyons Bay Sandbar: A Hidden Local Hangout

For those looking for a quieter alternative to the popular islands, Lyons Bay Sandbar is a hidden gem just east of Nokomis, tucked away off Lyons Bay. This small, unmarked sandbar only reveals itself at low tide, but when it does, it becomes a favorite spot for locals who know where to look. The water here is typically calm and warm, with soft white sand that’s ideal for anchoring and lounging.

Lyons Bay itself is rich with mangroves and home to numerous fish species, making it an excellent spot for light tackle fishing or casting a line off the side of your boat. The sandbar is also known for its solitude—since it’s not as well known as Snake Island or Midnight Pass, you’re more likely to have the place to yourself, especially on weekdays. It’s the perfect destination for a lazy afternoon, with plenty of space to float on a raft or catch some sun in peace.

Dona Bay Spoil Islands: Nature at its Rawest

East of Nokomis and connected by the Intracoastal Waterway, Dona Bay is home to several spoil islands created during the dredging of local canals. These small, untamed islands are perfect for boaters seeking raw, unfiltered Florida nature. Unlike more manicured parks or popular beach destinations, these spoil islands offer an intimate look at local ecology, from native plant life to nesting shorebirds.

Each spoil island is a little different—some are more vegetated, while others are little more than mounds of sand and shells surrounded by shallow water. What they all have in common is tranquility. There’s very little boat traffic in Dona Bay, making it ideal for paddleboarders, kayakers, and smaller vessels. These islands are also a great place to introduce kids to coastal ecosystems, as you’re likely to encounter fiddler crabs, herons, and maybe even a sea turtle if you’re lucky. There are no services, so it’s strictly a pack-in, pack-out experience, but that’s exactly why they remain pristine.

The Call of the Water: Why These Spots Matter

Exploring the waters near Nokomis by boat offers far more than just a change of scenery—it provides access to some of the Gulf Coast’s most peaceful and untouched landscapes. Each of these sandbars and islands delivers its own flavor of adventure. From the sociable vibe of Snake Island to the wild seclusion of Dona Bay’s spoil islands, there’s something for every type of boater. These places aren’t just stopovers—they’re destinations that make the journey worthwhile.

What ties all five of these locations together is their accessibility by water and their freedom from commercialization. They offer a throwback to the old Florida lifestyle, where the only sounds are the splash of a fish, the cry of a gull, or the clink of ice in your cooler. Whether you’re looking for a party, a paddle, or a peaceful picnic, these islands and sandbars provide a unique blend of nature and recreation that land-based beaches often can’t match.

If you’re planning a trip to the Nokomis area, renting or launching a boat opens the door to this hidden world of floating havens and sandy retreats. Just be sure to respect local wildlife, follow boating etiquette, and always leave no trace so that these natural treasures remain beautiful and inviting for years to come.

Looking for Watercraft Rentals Near You?

Welcome to Cool Breeze Boats & Jet Ski Rentals! Since we were established, we have been a premier provider of boats and jet skis in Nokomis, Florida! Our affordable rentals include several types of boats, kayaks, jet skis, and scheduled tours. As the closest operation to the Gulf of Mexico, we offer a great source of entertainment with the easiest accommodations! Moreover, we are proud members of the Osprey Nokomis Chamber of Commerce and the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce. We proudly hold a Certificate of Excellence with TripAdvisor, so you can rest assured that our service comes with a high guarantee! Call or stop in today to speak to our friendly staff and schedule our services.

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