Osprey / Nokomis
Osprey
Osprey is a small community located in Sarasota county on the Gulf of Mexico. This small community has a population of approximately 4200.
In Osprey you can visit Historic Spanish Point*Discover a fascinating 30-acre museum owned and operated by Gulf Coast Heritage Association, Inc., a private, not-for-profit organization. Overlooking beautiful Little Sarasota Bay in Osprey Florida, Historic Spanish Point was the first site in Sarasota County to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and is accredited by the American Association of Museums. You will experience prehistory by stepping inside “A Window to the Past,” an archaeology exhibition about the gulf coast region’s earliest people. Be surrounded by a 15 foot high prehistoric shell mound called amidden and view a recreated dwelling from 1,000 years ago.
REFLECT on the early 1900s in Sarasota as you stroll through formal gardens created by Mrs. Potter Palmer as part of her winter estate. The graceful Duchene Lawn and Classic Portal is a calm respite on your walk to the Butterfly Garden, which is the largest on the gulf coast. A meandering inspired aqueduct empties over a shell cascade in the Jungle Walk Garden.
ENJOY shaded nature trails through native plant communities and stunning views of Little Sarasota Bay from large boardwalks. Osprey, Pelican, Dolphin and Manatees can sometimes be seen from Cock's Footbridge. Bring a picnic lunch and dine under the graceful branches of a large majestic Southern Magnolia or on the porch of White Cottage.
Also find some small shopping centers and wonderful resturants for every palet. Come and see this wonderful community.
Nokomis
Nokomis is famous for Casey Key, a barrier island split with the CDP of Osprey created by the intracoastal waterway, where there are beachfront houses worth millions of dollars lining the key. Stephen King resides on Casey Key during the winter months. It was rumored that Oprah Winfrey was going to move to a large house on Casey Key, but those rumors turned out to be false.
Just to the south of Siesta Key lies Casey Key. You won't find any chain hotels here. This is "old Florida" at its best. A quaint collection of inns is a stroll away from the public beach access and marina rentals. Covered in a canopy of tropical trees, the winding Gulf-front street will make for an unforgettable Sunday drive among some of Sarasota's most luxurious homes. The twisty curves and light traffic also make for a great bike ride.
Fresh Seafood on Casey
Pop's Sunset Grille welcomes diners by land or by sea. The rustic, waterfront restaurant features a fresh catch daily, fried seafood baskets, salads, burgers, a mixed seafood grill, crab cakes and more.
Find more "Old Florida" at the Casey Key Fish House, another favorite of hungry seafarers. Try the grouper, snapper or mahi, grilled, blackened or fried. The almond encrusted snapper always gets rave reviews. Like Pop's, friendly service, fresh seafood and spectacular sunsets are their specialties.
Population is just over 4000
* information obtained from 2008 Gulf Coast Heritage Association, Inc.
