Adjacent to Sarasota Sailing Squadron Ramp

Ken Thompson Boat Ramp Sarasota: Your Launch Pad to Adventure

Sarasota, Florida, offers a wide range of attractions and activities for both residents and tourists. One of the lesser-known gems of the area is the Ken Thompson Boat Ramp. This versatile park caters to a variety of recreational activities, making it an appealing destination for nature lovers, anglers, and watersports enthusiasts alike. Located at 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway, the boat ramp provides easy access to the water, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable experience for all.

The Ken Thompson Boat Ramp is set within the larger Ken Thompson Park, which extends over a vast area and boasts numerous amenities to make your visit worthwhile. From canoe and kayak launching facilities to fishing piers, picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails, this park offers something for everyone in the family. The park also permits leashed pets, making it an ideal spot for dog owners looking for a place to unwind and connect with nature. In addition to these features, an electric car charger is available for those who prefer environmentally friendly transportation options. The park's prime location near the water also makes it a perfect spot for capturing stunning sunsets that have become synonymous with Sarasota.

Ken Thompson Boat Ramp Overview

Ken Thompson Boat Ramp is a popular facility located at 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway in Sarasota, Florida. It is a part of Ken Thompson Park, which is managed by the City of Sarasota. This boat ramp provides easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, New Pass, and Sarasota Bay, making it an ideal spot for boating enthusiasts.

The boat ramp occupies a prime spot on City Island, Lido Key, offering picturesque views and a perfect location for sunset watching. The surrounding area features a variety of amenities to cater to the needs of visitors. The park is equipped with a fishing pier, picnic area, water fountain, playground, electric car charger, and walking trails. The bathrooms are open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Besides boating activities, Ken Thompson Park is also suitable for canoe and kayak launching. The park allows leashed pets, making it an excellent spot for families with furry friends. The wide range of facilities available at Ken Thompson Park Boat Ramp ensures that visitors have an enjoyable time in a serene and beautiful setting, regardless of the activities they choose to partake in during their visit.

In conclusion, Ken Thompson Boat Ramp in Sarasota, Florida, is a valuable recreational spot for boating enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike. With a convenient location on City Island and numerous amenities, it's no wonder that it is a favored destination for locals and tourists alike.

Amenities and Facilities

Fishing Pier

Ken Thompson Boat Ramp Sarasota offers a well-maintained fishing pier available to the public. The pier provides an excellent spot for anglers to enjoy their favorite pastime. It is also a great place for visitors to enjoy the serene views of the water.

Picnic Area

The park also provides a spacious picnic area with multiple picnic tables perfect for family gatherings and outdoor meals. Surrounded by trees and greenery, the area creates a pleasant atmosphere for visitors to relax and unwind while enjoying their meal.

Playground

Parents can take their children to the park's playground designed for kids to have fun and stay active. The playground offers a variety of age-appropriate play structures that cater to children's different interests and abilities.

Restrooms

For the convenience of visitors, Ken Thompson Boat Ramp Sarasota features restrooms that are open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The restrooms are clean and well-maintained to ensure that guests have a comfortable experience while visiting the park.

Electric Car Charger

Environmentally-conscious individuals can appreciate the park's inclusion of an electric car charger. This facility demonstrates the park's commitment to sustainable practices and caters to those with electric vehicles.

Water Fountain

A water fountain is conveniently located within the park, providing fresh drinking water for guests. This amenity is especially beneficial during the hot summer months, ensuring visitors stay hydrated throughout their visit.

Outdoor Activities

Kayak Launching

Ken Thompson Park, located in Sarasota, is a delight for outdoor enthusiasts particularly interested in kayak launching. The park provides an ideal location to embark on a day full of adventure, with easy access to the water via a concrete boat ramp with six lanes and four docks. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, the facilities at Ken Thompson Park are sure to enhance your experience on the water.

Walking Trails

For those who prefer to explore the park by foot, there are several well-maintained walking trails at Ken Thompson Park. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area as you stroll along the serene pathways. Walking trails offer the perfect opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy a leisurely morning jog, or spend quality time with loved ones while appreciating the scenic views.

Mangrove Boardwalk

One of the unique features of Ken Thompson Park is the mangrove boardwalk that takes visitors through a fascinating mangrove ecosystem. Experience the magic of walking right through the dense mangrove canopy, observing the tidal marsh restoration areas, and discovering the abundant wildlife that call these ecosystems home. The boardwalk provides an unparalleled opportunity to engage with the diverse plant and animal species that thrive in the mangroves.

Leashed Pets

Pet owners can rejoice knowing that leashed pets are allowed at Ken Thompson Park. Bring your furry friends along to enjoy some quality time outdoors, whether on the walking trails or during a family picnic. Ensuring that pets are leashed ensures the safety and enjoyment of the park for all visitors, and allows for a fun-filled day for both humans and their four-legged companions.

Environment and Habitat

Ken Thompson Boat Ramp is located in Sarasota, Florida, providing a fantastic location for recreational boating enthusiasts. The ramp is situated in the natural beauty of Ken Thompson Park, which spans 92 acres and offers visitors an incredible environment to explore.

The park features a diverse ecosystem, including ample mangroves and tidal marsh restoration areas. These environments create a rich habitat for many marine species and can be experienced through the park's boardwalks. The mangrove canopy experience allows visitors to get a close-up view of the unique ecosystems, which are essential to maintain a healthy and balanced environment in the area.

Public access to the boat ramp is available via a concrete boat ramp with six lanes and four docks, making it easy for boaters to explore the surrounding waters. The entire park, including the boat ramp, is owned by the city of Sarasota and operated by Sarasota County Parks and Recreation.

One of the recent initiatives at the Ken Thompson Park boat ramp is the installation of mini reefs under the docks. These mini reefs are aimed at having a positive impact on marine habitat and promote a thriving environment for various aquatic organisms.

In conclusion, Ken Thompson Boat Ramp offers not only a convenient access point for boating enthusiasts but also a unique opportunity to explore the diverse environment and habitats present in the park. With its combination of mangroves, tidal marshes, and marine life, the park truly showcases the natural beauty and ecological importance of the Sarasota area.

Sunset and Scenic Views

Ken Thompson Boat Ramp in Sarasota provides visitors with stunning sunset and scenic views, making it an ideal location for nature lovers and photographers. One of the highlights of the park is the perfect location to watch the sunset with the sky turning into shades of beautiful colors.

The park offers ample amenities such as a fishing pier, boat ramp, picnic area, water fountain, playground, walking trails, and restrooms. As a dog-friendly park, visitors can bring their leashed pets along to enjoy the views and walking trails.

For those looking for unique experiences, Ken Thompson Boat Ramp hosts Sharkey's Glass Bottom Kayak LED illuminated Night Tours in Sarasota. These tours allow guests to glide along the waterways after sunset on glass-bottom kayaks fitted with LED lights, offering a completely different way of enjoying the sights and sounds of the park after dark.

The park is not only a haven for gorgeous sunsets, but it also offers a variety of recreational possibilities ranging from kayaking, fishing to cycling, and more. Visitors can also find public art installations, adding a touch of creativity to the natural landscape.

In summary, Ken Thompson Boat Ramp is an excellent spot to spend an evening soaking in the natural beauty of Sarasota. The serene setting combined with convenient facilities allows visitors to make the most of their time, whether that involves watching the sunset, enjoying a leisurely stroll, or engaging in various outdoor activities.

Nearby Boat Ramps

Blackburn Point Park

Blackburn Point Park offers a public boat ramp located at 800 Blackburn Point Road, Sarasota, FL 34229. This boat ramp is situated on 10 acres of land at the southern end of Little Sarasota Bay. The GPS coordinates for the waters edge at the ramp are 27° 10'51.14" N 82° 29'43.90" W. The park provides an excellent location to quickly access the bay and surrounding waterways.

Some features of Blackburn Point Park include:

• Boat ramp
• Fishing pier
• Picnic areas
• Restrooms
• Platform for launching kayaks and canoes

Turtle Beach Boat Ramp

Turtle Beach Boat Ramp is another popular boat ramp facility in Sarasota. Although it was not found in the search results, it is worth mentioning due to its convenient location and accessibility to the water. The boat ramp is situated near Turtle Beach on Siesta Key and provides boaters direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway.

Some amenities at Turtle Beach Boat Ramp include:

• Launch lanes
• Ample parking for vehicles and trailers
• Restrooms
• Picnic areas
• Playground

In conclusion, both Blackburn Point Park and Turtle Beach Boat Ramp are excellent options for boaters looking for convenient access to Sarasota's waterways. With their various amenities and strategic locations, these boat ramps cater to a wide range of boating activities and ensure a pleasant experience for all.

Ken Thompson Park

Located in Sarasota, Florida, Ken Thompson Park offers numerous amenities and activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The park, situated at 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway, is accessible via phone at (941) 263-6386. It is an excellent location for enjoying various water-based activities and taking in the beauty of the Florida coast.

The park is perfect for canoeing and kayaking, as it features a boat ramp that allows easy access to the water. Fishing enthusiasts can take advantage of the fishing pier provided by the park. Those who prefer to stay on land can enjoy a lovely picnic with family and friends in the designated picnic area or make use of the park's barbecue grills.

Animal lovers will be glad to know that leashed pets are allowed in Ken Thompson Park, making it a great place for a day out with furry friends. Apart from this, the park offers a playground for children to have fun and burn off some energy. The well-maintained walking trails provide both residents and visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely stroll or a more intense workout.

Ken Thompson Park is also environmentally friendly, as it features an electric car charger for visitors driving electric vehicles. Additionally, the park has several restrooms that are open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, making it convenient for guests to spend a full day enjoying the park's activities.

Lastly, this park is known as a perfect location to watch the sunset. With its stunning views of the water, Ken Thompson Park is a fantastic place to spend an evening and take in the sight of the sun dipping below the horizon. So whether it's an outing on the water or a quiet evening admiring the sunset, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities at Ken Thompson Park.

City Management

Ken Thompson Park, located at 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236, is a key Sarasota County destination. It is under the management and direction of the City of Sarasota and the Sarasota County Parks and Recreation Department. This park is situated on City Island, close to the Sarasota Bay.

In recognition of Ken Thompson's dedicated service, the park is named after him, as he served as the City Manager of Sarasota from February 1, 1950, to February 1, 1988. He played a significant role in the development and growth of the city, leading it with his knowledge and expertise. His efforts helped shape the growth of Sarasota into the bustling and vibrant city it is today.

One of the main attractions of Ken Thompson Park is its boat ramp. The Ken Thompson Park Boat Ramp provides easy and accessible launching points for boats and other watercraft on Sarasota Bay and its surrounding bodies of water, such as the Atlantic Ocean and New Pass. This boat ramp is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, who come to engage in water-related activities such as fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

The City of Sarasota and Sarasota County Parks and Recreation Department work together to ensure that Ken Thompson Park has a wide range of amenities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. The park features barbecue stations, picnic areas, a playground, a fishing pier, and walking trails. It is also dog-friendly and has an electric car charging station on-site.

By investing in well-rounded amenities and maintaining the park's excellent condition, the City of Sarasota and the Sarasota County Parks and Recreation Department continue Ken Thompson's legacy of commitment to his city and its recreational facilities.

Reviews and Boating Experiences

Ken Thompson Park in Sarasota, Florida, is a popular spot for boating enthusiasts, as it offers a convenient and well-maintained boat ramp. Many visitors have shared their positive experiences with this park, noting its beautiful bayfront location and close proximity to Siesta Key.

Visitors to the park have praised its stunning views and the diverse range of outdoor activities it provides, including access to nearby nature and wildlife areas. Boating, particularly during sunset, has become a highlight for many tourists and locals alike, thanks to the park's ideal location.

Not only is Ken Thompson Park suitable for boating, but it also hosts other water-based activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The park's proximity to Siesta Key makes it an ideal launching point for those seeking to explore the coastal region and surrounding islands by boat.

Though the boat ramp is the main attraction for many visitors, the park offers more than just that. It features several walking trails and scenic views, making it an ideal location for friends and families to spend a day together outdoors.

In summary, Ken Thompson Park offers a one-of-a-kind boating experience, with visitors consistently highlighting the boating opportunities and the park's beautiful bayfront location as some of its most attractive features. The park's close proximity to Siesta Key further adds to its appeal, providing an ideal spot for exploration and adventure out on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours of operation for Ken Thompson Boat Ramp?

The restrooms at Ken Thompson Park are open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but there isn't specific information on the boat ramp's hours of operation. However, parks generally open at sunrise and close at sunset. It is suggested to visit the official website for more details.

Is there a fee to use the boat ramp at Ken Thompson?

There doesn't seem to be any information available regarding a fee for using the boat ramp at Ken Thompson. You may want to contact the park authorities at (941) 263-6386 to confirm this information.

Are there any size restrictions for boats at the ramp?

There isn't specific information on size restrictions for boats at the Ken Thompson Boat Ramp. It's suggested to get in touch with the park authorities for details on size restrictions, if any.

What facilities are available near the boat ramp?

Ken Thompson Park offers a variety of facilities, including a fishing pier, picnic area, water fountain, playground, boat ramp, electric car charger, and walking trails. The park also allows leashed pets and is a perfect location for canoe and kayak launching, with restrooms available daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Is there ample parking for boat trailers?

While there is parking available at Ken Thompson Park, there is no specific mention of parking for boat trailers on the website. It might be a good idea to contact the park authorities to confirm the availability of parking for boat trailers.

How do I get to Ken Thompson Boat Ramp in Sarasota?

Ken Thompson Boat Ramp is located at 1700 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. You can find directions to the park through various mapping services or visit the official website for more information.