🏖️ What to Do:
- Anchor & Swim
There are no docks, so boaters must anchor just offshore. The southeastern side of the island and the northern sandbars are popular for dropping anchor in calm waters. Swim or paddle ashore and enjoy wide stretches of white sand, dunes, and seagrass. Bring beach gear, snorkels, umbrellas, and dry bags for comfort and safety. - Explore the Lighthouse and Fort Dade
The island is home to the Egmont Key Lighthouse, originally built in 1848 and rebuilt in 1858, still standing as one of the oldest operational lighthouses on the Gulf. Wander inland to discover Fort Dade, a coastal defense post active during the Spanish–American War. The overgrown brick paths, hidden bunkers, and decaying gun batteries offer a fascinating self-guided tour for history buffs and families. - Snorkeling & Wildlife Viewing
Egmont Key’s shallow waters, particularly on the Gulf side, are known for excellent snorkeling. You’ll find remnants of Fort Dade’s seawall submerged just offshore, as well as rocky outcrops that attract rays, sea turtles, schools of tropical fish, and the occasional dolphin. The area is part of a protected refuge, so please observe wildlife respectfully and never disturb nesting birds or marine life.
🧭 Navigation Notes:
Distance from Bradenton Club: Approx. 13–15 nautical miles (~45 minutes depending on weather and vessel speed).
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Route: Depart the Bradenton Club via the Manatee River, head west through Longboat Pass or north past Anna Maria Island and Passage Key Inlet, then proceed to the mouth of Tampa Bay.
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Anchorage:
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Southwest Gulf side – Ideal for snorkeling and swimming near the ruins
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North tip sandbar – Popular anchoring for calmer water and sandbar fun
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Eastern side – Offers wind protection but more current due to shipping traffic
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Jewfish Key
A local favorite for both relaxing and social boating, Jewfish Key is a privately owned island surrounded by shallow, turquoise waters that create one of the most popular sandbar hangout spots on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Just a short cruise from the Bradenton Club—about 20–25 minutes depending on conditions—this area is a must-visit destination for Gulf Stream Boat Club members looking for sunshine, swimming, and social fun.
🏖️ What to Do:
- Sandbar Socializing
Anchor in waist-deep water along the northeastern edge of Jewfish Key, where dozens of boats often gather on weekends and holidays. It’s a prime spot for floating, sunbathing, and mingling with other boaters. Families, couples, and groups all find their niche here thanks to the calm, protected waters and soft sandy bottom. - Swimming & Floating
The sandbar is perfect for tossing out a float, playing games in the water, or just wading around with a drink in hand. The water is usually clear and calm, especially in the mornings and early afternoons. - Picnic on the Boat
There are no facilities or restaurants on Jewfish Key—it’s completely residential and not open to the public—so be sure to bring your own food, drinks, and supplies. Many boaters pack a cooler and enjoy lunch on deck or on a float just off the stern.
🚫 Important Reminders:
- Private Land: The island itself is private property. Please do not attempt to go ashore or dock on the island.
- Leave No Trace: Take all trash with you. Respect the marine life and preserve the pristine setting for everyone to enjoy.
- No Restrooms or Facilities: Plan accordingly—there are no public restrooms or amenities nearby.
🧭 Navigation Notes:
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Approach Routes: From the Bradenton Club, follow the Manatee River west and enter the Intracoastal Waterway heading south past Cortez Bridge. Jewfish Key will be on your right just before Longboat Pass.
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Anchor on the North or East Side: Look for other boats and choose a sandy spot in the north or northeast shallows. Depths are usually 2–5 feet—ideal for anchoring but not suitable for deep drafts.
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Watch the Current: The nearby Longboat Pass can create mild currents, especially during tide changes. Keep fenders and lines ready, and double-check your anchor set.
Longer Day Trips
Longboat Pass
A scenic and strategic stretch of water, Longboat Pass connects the northern end of Longboat Key with Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island. For Gulf Stream Boat Club members, it serves as a natural waypoint for longer day trips—including outings to Egmont Key, Jewfish Key, and the open Gulf of Mexico.
Whether you’re heading out for offshore fishing, a coastal cruise, or anchoring at a nearby sandbar, Longboat Pass is one of the most important and picturesque routes in the area.
🏖️ What to Do:
- Anchor Near Beer Can Island (Greer Island)
Just north of Longboat Pass, you’ll find a small, driftwood-strewn beach popular with locals. It’s a great spot to anchor for a quick swim or explore on foot (access conditions vary depending on tides and sand shifts). - Fish the Pass
Known for strong tidal flows, Longboat Pass is a prime spot for inshore fishing. Expect to catch snook, redfish, and trout near the rocks and under the bridge. Anchoring or drifting on either side of the pass during slack tide is a productive method.
Pass-Through to Other Hotspots
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Head northwest to Egmont Key (about 30–40 minutes from the pass)
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Cruise northeast into the Intracoastal for Jewfish Key and the sandbars
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Turn south along Longboat Key for access to Sarasota Bay or dock-and-dine destinations like Mar Vista and The Shore
🧭 Navigation Notes:
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Watch the Tides: Longboat Pass is shallow in spots and conditions change frequently. Consult your chart plotter or GPS and keep to the marked channels.
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Currents Can Be Swift: This is not a beginner anchorage. Make sure your anchor is set properly and double-check swing room if you’re staying long.
More Bradenton Dockside Dining Options
Pier 22
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Address: 1200 1st Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
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Docking: Restaurant marina with dedicated slips for boaters
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Hours: Daily 11 AM – 10 PM (Happy Hour 3–7 PM)
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Menu/Reservations: Available on their official website
Caddy’s Waterfront
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Address: 801 Riverside Dr E, Bradenton, FL 34208
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Docking: Sandy beach-style mooring for smaller boats
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Hours: Daily 8 AM – 10 PM
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Menu/Info: Check restaurant website or call ahead
🍽️ Palmetto / Ellenton Area (Just Across the River)
Riviera Dunes Dockside Social Bar & Grill
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Address: 102 Riviera Dunes Way, Palmetto, FL 34221
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Docking: On-site marina slips (call ahead to confirm availability)
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Hours: Daily from 11 AM; Weekend Brunch Saturday & Sunday 10 AM – 3 PM
Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant
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Address: 995 Riverside Dr, Palmetto, FL 34221
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Docking: Tie-up at floating dock near adjacent marina fuel pumps
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Hours: Daily 11 AM – 9 PM
Woody’s River Roo
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Address: 5717 18th St E, Ellenton, FL 34222
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Docking: Marina dock tie-up available for boaters
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Hours: Daily 11 AM – 9 PM
🍽️ Nearby Dock-and-Dine Destinations
Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub (Bradenton Beach)
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Address: 760 Broadway St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
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Docking: Private dock with boat slips available behind the restaurant
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Hours: Daily, mid-day through evening (hours may vary seasonally)
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Menu/Reservations: Typically listed on restaurant site
Beach House Waterfront Restaurant (Bradenton Beach)
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Address: 200 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
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Docking: Limited tie-up for boats — check availability before arriving
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Hours: Mon–Thu & Sun 11 AM – 9 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM – 10 PM
