Two hours and 20 minutes to the southeast is Everglades National Park, one of the closest national parks to Sarasota. This tropical wilderness is home to many exotic and endangered species in the state. You could see a Florida panther roaming in the backcountry or spot a manatee in the coastal waters. Airboat tours are a popular way to explore the mangrove forest. Keep your eyes open; you may see an American crocodile.
Biscayne National Parkis another exceptional place to take in the beauty of nature. This national park is about three and a half hours southeast of Sarasota, but you will feel like you have ended up in a tropical paradise. Biscayne Bay is a popular spot for pelicans and bottlenose dolphins to bob in the waters. Most of the park is only accessible by boat. Biscayne National Park is known for its shallow-water shipwrecks, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba divers.
Dry Tortugas National Parkis located 70 miles south of Key West and is only accessible by boat or seaplane. While you may be tempted to skip this national park, it is truly a hidden treasure in the state. In the early 19th century, Dry Tortugas was the location of Fort Jefferson. As time passed, the area became a haven for sea turtles. The park continues to be the home of a large population of these sea animals. Dry Tortugas National Park also has its share of shipwrecks, most notably the Windjammer wreck site.
Oscar Scherer State Park was originally designated to protect the local ecosystem. Today, it welcomes visitors to explore this natural oasis near Osprey, about 22 minutes southeast of Sarasota. You can hike over 25 miles of trails or swim in the warm waters. There are also a few spots to cast your fishing line into the waters.
Lake Manatee State Park is a part of the Lake Manatee area. This state park, 37 minutes northeast of Sarasota, is filled with seasonal flowers, beautiful waters, and plenty of wildlife. Visitors love coming here to explore on foot or play in the water. This state park is a must-see location if you want to visit a natural retreat close to Sarasota.
Myakka River State Park, which is 28 minutes southeast of Sarasota, has a diverse landscape, making it a unique place in the region. This state park encompasses acres of prairies, pinelands, and wetlands. Myakka River State Park is an exceptional place to spot wildlife. You may see alligators, native birds, or turtles roaming throughout the park.
If you want to see some interesting and historic places while in Sarasota, you can start with the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. These immaculate gardens are part of Historic Spanish Point.
St. Armands Circle is an excellent place to go if you want to spend a leisurely day shopping and eating in the city. It features more than 130 restaurants, specialty shops, boutiques, and galleries.
For something different, visit the Ca' d'Zan estate, the winter residence of John Ringling, the circus mogul. Based on the palazzos in Venice, the house was a love letter to his wife.
Just 25 minutes northwest of Sarasota, Sarasota Bay RV Park is a smaller park near popular tourist areas. It is a short walk to the nearby marina or several local eateries.
Citrus Hill RV Park, an hour northeast of Sarasota, is known for its spacious RV pads and other amenities.
Bickley RV Park, which is located an hour northwest of Sarasota, is a well-maintained campground within walking distance of the beach.
How do I properly pack and store my belongings inside a camper van rental, and what storage options are available?
When renting a Class B motorhome from an RVshare owner, there are typically several storage options available for your belongings. You can utilize overhead storage compartments, under-bench storage, and even cabinets for heavier items. When packing your belongings, it's best to use soft-sided luggage or collapsible containers to save on space. Keep items secure while driving by using bungee cords or tension rods to prevent shifting during travel.
Can I drive a camper van rental in Sarasota, FL without prior experience, and are there any special driving considerations I should know?
Driving a Class B motorhome rental is typically similar to driving a regular car, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before setting off and be aware of the height and length of your vehicle. It's also advisable to take a test drive around the RVshare owner's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the handling and braking of the vehicle before embarking on your trip.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the camper van rental during my rental period?
The owner of the RV is responsible for maintenance. Renters should keep the RV clean and handle with care to avoid any damages. You may need to empty the water tanks depending on your agreement with the RV owner.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a camper van motorhome rental in Sarasota, FL?
It's important to know the height and weight restrictions of your camper van rental in order to avoid accidents or getting stuck in low clearance areas, especially when traveling on highways or bridges. It's also advisable to check local regulations regarding weight limits when driving on certain roads.
Can I park or store a Class B motorhome rental in a regular parking spot or garage in Sarasota, FL, or are there specific requirements for parking and storage?
Parking a Class B motorhome rental in a regular spot or garage can be challenging due to the size of the vehicle. It's important to check local regulations and parking restrictions before setting off on your trip. RVshare owners may also provide guidance on where it is safe to park or store the vehicle.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class B motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Most Class B motorhomes are relatively fuel efficient, but it's important to be mindful of your driving habits in order to minimize fuel costs. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, accelerate smoothly, and avoid excessive speeding. It's also a good idea to plan your route before departing in order to avoid getting lost or taking unnecessary detours.
Are any particular features or amenities available in a camper van rental that may not be found in other RVs in Sarasota, FL?
Features and amenities vary depending on the model of the Class B motorhome rental, but some popular options include a built-in microwave, refrigerator, and TV/DVD player. Some models may also include a shower and toilet, while others may not. Check the listing details on RVshare for all of the available amenities for each rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class B motorhome rental?
Each RVshare owner may have different instructions for using the kitchen and bathroom facilities in their Class B motorhome rental. In the bathroom, there may be a shower and/or toilet that needs to be hooked up to water and sewage sources. RVshare owners will typically provide instruction manuals or walkthroughs of the rental vehicle's features.
Should I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the camper van rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
While some Class B motorhome rentals may include entertainment equipment or appliances, such as a grill or music player, it's always a good idea to double-check with the RVshare owner about what amenities are included in the rental. If you have specific entertainment preferences, you may want to bring your own equipment or devices.
Are any specific campgrounds or RV parks in Sarasota, FL particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Sarasota, FL that are well-suited for Class B motorhome rentals. Some popular amenities include electrical hookups, dump stations for sewage, and picnic tables. It's important to research and reserve a spot in advance to ensure availability during your trip. RVshare owners may also have recommendations for great campsites or RV parks in the area.
