10 Best Things to Do in Englewood, Florida: Beaches, Shark Teeth, Parks and Local Favorites

March 14, 2026 | Suncoast Post Staff | Great Reading

Located along Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast just south of Venice and north of Boca Grande, Englewood is one of Southwest Florida’s hidden gems. This laid-back coastal community stretches across both Sarasota and Charlotte counties and offers a mix of pristine beaches, charming historic districts, and outdoor adventures. With abundant sunshine and easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing day trip or weekend getaway.

Here are 10 great things to do in Englewood, Florida that locals and visitors love.

1. Relax at Englewood Beach

Englewood Beach on Manasota Key is one of the most popular spots in the area. The beach features a boardwalk, picnic tables, volleyball courts, playgrounds, and plenty of space to enjoy the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a favorite place for swimming, sunset watching, and beachcombing.

2. Explore Stump Pass Beach State Park

One of the most beautiful natural areas in the region, Stump Pass Beach State Park offers miles of unspoiled shoreline and nature trails. Visitors come here to swim, kayak, hike, fish, and search for seashells and fossilized shark teeth.

3. Discover Lemon Bay Park & Environmental Center

Nature lovers should not miss Lemon Bay Park, a 210-acre preserve featuring walking trails, mangrove habitats, and scenic views of Lemon Bay. The park includes a butterfly garden, kayak launch, and educational exhibits about the area’s wildlife and ecosystems.

4. Walk and Shop Along Dearborn Street

Historic Dearborn Street in Olde Englewood Village is the heart of the community. Visitors can explore unique shops, art galleries, coffee houses, and restaurants while enjoying a relaxed Old Florida atmosphere. The area also hosts festivals, car shows, and seasonal events throughout the year.

5. Visit the Englewood Farmers Market

From October through May, the Englewood Farmers Market takes place on Dearborn Street. The market features fresh produce, local seafood, baked goods, handmade crafts, and live entertainment—making it a favorite weekly event for residents and visitors alike.

6. Enjoy Live Theatre at Lemon Bay Playhouse

The Lemon Bay Playhouse is a beloved community theater that stages comedies, dramas, and musicals throughout the year. It’s a fun way to experience Englewood’s vibrant arts scene in an intimate setting.

7. Hunt for Shark Teeth

Englewood sits near Florida’s famous “Shark Tooth Coast.” Visitors often sift through the sand looking for fossilized shark teeth that wash up along the Gulf shoreline—a unique and exciting activity for both kids and adults.

8. Take a Dolphin or Sunset Cruise

Boat tours around Lemon Bay and the Gulf offer incredible opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, and other marine wildlife. Sunset cruises are especially popular and provide breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast.

9. Explore Indian Mound Park

Indian Mound Park offers waterfront views, walking paths, fishing areas, and picnic spots along Lemon Bay. The park is also home to historic Native American burial mounds dating back centuries.

10. Paddle or Kayak on Lemon Bay

Kayaking or paddleboarding on Lemon Bay is one of the best ways to experience Englewood’s natural beauty. Calm waters make it ideal for beginners, and paddlers can spot wildlife, mangroves, and stunning Gulf Coast scenery along the way.

Englewood offers the perfect blend of beaches, nature, and small-town charm. Whether you’re relaxing on Manasota Key, exploring scenic parks, or enjoying the shops and restaurants along Dearborn Street, there’s something here for everyone. It’s easy to see why this quiet Gulf Coast town continues to attract visitors looking for a true “Old Florida” experience.

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