Marina Jack, Suntex Marinas, Sarasota, FL

As you cruise down the gulf coast, enjoy the scenery of lush wetlands and mangrove forests on your way to Marina Jack — a stunning destination along Sarasota Bay.

The full-service marina boasts 305 wet slips on floating and fixed docks accommodating vessels up to 185 feet, as well as a 58-ball mooring field for annuals and transients up to 50 feet. The property is connected to Bayfront Park, which offers trails, a picnic area, playground with a splash pad and Sarasota’s iconic dolphin fountain.

Amenities include laundry, showers, 24-hour fuel, Ship Store and recently upgraded Wi-Fi. Services include a list of contractors for boat repairs and detailing. Choose from a variety of on-site restaurants including an award-winning wine list and the region’s finest steaks and seafood at The Marina Jack Dining Room on the second floor or dine al fresco and sip tropical drinks at the recently renovated Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill. O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill offers a more casual setting with lovely waterfront views along Bayfront Park.

For the city’s best sightseeing, embark on a lunch tour or sunset dinner cruise aboard the Marina Jack II. Depart from the marina and voyage to Lido Bay and Bird Key passing through the Ringling Bridge and cruising along the Gulf. To sightsee by land, take the marina’s concierge shuttle to explore downtown Sarasota’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

Kayak, birdwatch and explore nature reserves at the nearby Myakka River State Park, stroll around historic neighborhoods through Spanish Point, and admire orchids and tropical plants at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens nature museum. Check out the local hidden gem, Towles Court, where you’ll find live music, art galleries, studios and gift shops near Old Florida-style homes.

Just across the bay, cruise to St. Armands Circle, an island destination for dining, visiting galleries and shopping at more than 130 boutiques. The area is also known for its golf courses, white sand beaches and fishing, and the marina is a premier venue for inshore, offshore and billfish tournaments.

“Marina Jack provides a world-class hospitality experience where a community of boat owners, enthusiasts, renters and waterside diners can all relax with family and friends and enjoy the benefits of being on or near the water,” says General Manager Patrick Lustro. “Our attentive and experienced team has a single mission of providing every tenant and guest a lifetime of treasured memories.”

Don’t miss the Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts in February, or the marina’s two biggest events: the annual 4th of July and New Year’s Eve fireworks. The marina also hosts the popular Suncoast Boat Show in April.