For boaters, Snead Island is conveniently located at the mouth of the Manatee River and Tampa Bay.  Those who live on Snead Island may have the convenience of a personal dock on their own property. If not, they have a choice of several marinas(scroll down for links), plus there is a public boat launch ideal for smaller boats, in Emerson Park. In addition, Snead Island is the home of the Bradenton Yacht Club (BYC), which hosts several on- and off-shore fishing tournaments throughout the year.

The BYC accommodates power and sailing vessels of various sizes, as does the Snead Island Boat Works. Both are located on the South side of the Island, with direct access to the Gulf via the lower Manatee River.

Snead Island appeals to a variety of lifestyles and offers homes for everyone - from “Old Florida” Manatee River-front living, to canal front homes, to several small enclaves of newer homes containing Key West styles in one, and Spanish Mediterranean in another. This island is suitable for families of all sizes and ages, as well as empty nesters, and those who can finally enjoy life in the “slower lane”. Snead Island is unique, as it has no condo projects, only single family homes. Snead Island is conveniently located just 45 minutes from Tampa International Airport and only 25 minutes to SRQ (Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport).

For additional recreation, Emerson Park is located on the Western-most tip of Snead Island where the Manatee River and Tampa Bay converge as they prepare to join the Gulf of Mexico.

You owe it to yourself to watch the sunsets from the waters edge at Emerson Park. The Park includes 365 preserve acres and offers nature/walking trails, bike paths, kayak/canoe launching area, covered picnic areas, an observation tower where you can take in a breathtaking 360 degree view that includes the Skyway Bridge.

Emerson Park is the site of a former Indian Mound, which was also used as a fishing camp, and later became the location of the home for the settler from whom the Island gets its modern day name. The Indian mound and remnants of the settler’s home, including the chimney and a cistern, are easily accessible and are nestled among the shade of large live oaks and glorious Florida plant life. Move to Snead Island and enjoy evening strolls, coastal breezes, and the step-back-in-time atmosphere.

Snead Island Links