Gators, Trails & Gator Bites: Our Wild Day Trip to Myakka

By Busy Travel Bees 🐝

So you’ve been soaking up the beachy bliss of Bradenton and Anna Maria Island (AMI), Florida—salt in your hair, a frozen drink in hand, toes in the sand. Life is good. But what if I told you that just 30-ish miles inland from that coastal paradise is a totally different world where gators outnumber surfers, trees wear Spanish moss like accessories, and the snacks include… yep… Gator Bites?

The drive alone is worth it—wide open country roads, rolling pastures, and immense green fields dotted with cows, barns, and the occasional tractor cruising by. It’s the kind of drive that makes you roll the windows down, turn up the country playlist (or your road trip jams of choice), and breathe a little deeper.

Recently, my husband and I decided to trade the beach for the backwoods and made the short trip out to Myakka River State Park in Myakka City, Florida. Let me tell you—it was so worth it. We hiked serene trails, spotted actual alligators lounging like Florida royalty, climbed up the Canopy Walkway for epic treetop views, and yes—we even tried the famous Gator Bites at the park’s food truck (verdict: shockingly delicious).

We browsed the little park shop, chatted with some friendly staff, and soaked up the sunshine all day long. It was the perfect change of pace from the sand-and-surf routine and such a fun way to experience a different side of Florida.

🐊 Why Myakka River State Park is a Must-Do

The Canopy Walkway
Think jungle bridge meets Florida swamp. Suspended 25 feet in the air, this rope bridge swings through the treetops and leads to a 74-foot observation tower with sweeping views of the forest, wetlands, and maybe even a gator-filled river below. We climbed up on a bright, sunny day and could see forever—totally worth the slightly wobbly steps.

Alligators
They’re just… there. In the water. On the banks. Casually floating like prehistoric celebrities who know everyone’s watching. We must’ve seen at least a dozen in one afternoon. It felt like being on a National Geographic set (without the dramatic voiceover).

Boating, Paddling & Hiking
There are tons of trails and waterways to explore—bring your hiking shoes, or rent a kayak or canoe if you're feeling adventurous. The scenery is wild in the best way: palms, oaks, birds, turtles, and swaying grasses that make the whole place feel like a Florida safari.

Gator Bites at the Food Truck
We couldn’t not try them. Crunchy, seasoned, and surprisingly tender—kind of like chicken, but swampier (in a good way?). Pair them with fries, and you’ve got a Florida foodie moment you’ll never forget.

🚜 Don’t Skip the Farm Feels

After the park, we drove through Myakka City itself—wide-open farmland, cows doing cow things, goats looking vaguely suspicious, and horses living their best country lives. It’s all quiet, charming, and a total vibe shift from the laid-back coastal buzz of Bradenton and AMI. That contrast is exactly what made it feel like a mini escape.

🌴 Pro Tips from Someone Who Just Did It

• Bring lots of water. Florida heat doesn’t mess around.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and shades. Florida sun doesn’t care if you’re in the woods.
• Wear comfy shoes—we clocked some solid steps on the trails and walkway.
• Arrive early if you're going on a weekend. This spot is a favorite for locals too!

🐝 Looking for a Place to Stay in Bradenton/AMI?

Escape to our luxury beachtown home in Bradenton, FL—Sassy Seahorse—just 15 minutes from Anna Maria Island’s stunning beaches!
We’ve packed it with all the fun stuff:

🏖 Heated pool
🎬 Theater & arcade room
🏓 Private pickleball
⛳️ Mini golf
🎥 Outdoor movie nights
🔥 BBQ, firepit, loungers, gazebo & more

Kid- and dog-friendly—perfect for your next coastal adventure!

👉 Book direct for the best rates: www.TheSassySeahorse.com

So go ahead—pair your beach days with a little backcountry adventure. A tan one day, a gator sighting the next. That’s how we do Florida, Busy Travel Bees style. 🐊🌴🐝