Hart’s Landing Has Sarasota’s Heart

When I first began visiting Sarasota it was 1994 and live music along the Downtown area was everywhere.   In the middle of paradise, rock and roll filled the air with a beat and a vibe that were of their own time.  Fancy restaurants have since replaced these bars whose parking lots were turned into sound stages almost every night of the week back then.

But some dive places have turned from caterpillar into butterfly and have managed to withstand the hands of time, even out maneuvering the condominium commandos who live to make sure sound limits aren’t exceeded.  One such place was an “old bait shop that’s been around forever,” according to my husband who grew up knee boarding and water-skiing, eventually day drinking by boat at most places up and down Sarasota Bay.  Today that bait shop stands as the mother ship of a beautiful park surrounded by water and perched right under the Ringling Bridge.  Live music, a state-of-the-art playground, walking paths and much more have made Hart’s Landing into something of a lone wolf. 

Since 1934, anglers have been coming to Hart’s Landing, first established by Deamus Hart.  Originally situated at the foot of the old John Ringling Causeway, the bait shot moved when the new bridge was constructed in 1964.  With a picture-perfect setting under the Ringling bridge, visitors have immaculate views of Sarasota Bay and the Downtown skyline. Today the bait shop has evolved into a mecca for outdoor live music.  It is reminiscent of days gone by, sitting outdoors along the bay listening to tunes being carried across the water in and around Sarasota like it should be.  You can catch Kettle of Fish there, along with The Mike Kach Group and others who are regularly schedule at Hart’s Landing Live Music — Hart’s Landing (hartsbaitshop.com).  Beer, wine, and canned mixed drinks are available for purchase in the bait shop.  Bring your blanket or chairs and stretch out on the expansive lawns which back up to a great playground area for the kids. 

What else is happening at Hart’s Landing?  If you have forgotten your fishing pole and other sundries, the bait shop rents poles and is stocked with cold beverages and snacks.  You can arrive by car or boat with plenty of dock space to park and stock up before a day out on the water.  Also parked at the docks is the Miss Clara, a unique boat that is available for private charters as well as sunset cruises and wine tastings  Miss Clara.

The best of Sarasota’s traditions lies at Hart’s Landing, boating, fishing, and live music.  If you haven’t been in awhile stop in for a cold beer, a great walk around the bay, and a reminder that paradise is truly ours.

Photos courtesy of Hart’s Landing Facebook page.