Cottages in Ruskin

Kayak through mangrove tunnels at E.G. Simmons Regional Park where manatees glide beneath your paddle with surprising grace. The Little Manatee River offers peaceful exploration for even novice paddlers. Waterfront eateries serve grouper sandwiches so fresh they were swimming that morning. Cast a line from the pier while pelicans watch with professional interest. Cockroach Bay Preserve State Park rewards hikers with pristine coastal habitat. Camp Bayou Nature Preserve reveals Florida as it existed before theme parks. Visit the Manatee Viewing Center when Tampa's power plant warms the water, creating a gentle giants' winter spa day. This Old Florida outpost maintains its unpretentious character despite being named for a famous British art critic.