5 Summer Sports to Try in and Around Bradenton and Sarasota

Whether you're a dedicated athlete or are just trying to spend less time on the couch, it's always fun to try a new sport. While the sun is shining, make plans to try a unique sport at one of these exciting venues in the Bradenton and Sarasota area. 

1. GT Bray Park: Disc Golf
5502 33rd Ave Dr W, Bradenton

If you can throw a disc, you can play disc golf. This game requires participants to toss discs into baskets at every "hole" and is similar to golf in that there are 18 holes per course. At GT Bray Park, the course is a combination of grassy and wooded terrain and is open from sunup until 11 p.m.

2. GT Bray Park: Racquetball Courts
5502 33rd Ave Dr W, Bradenton

If you're not much of a disc golf player, perhaps racquetball is for you. GT Bray Park also offers racquetball courts where you can engage in a high-speed match. Look up the basic rules online before you play; the concept is simple, but it can take some practice to hit the high-speed ball with accuracy.

3. SUP Sarasota: Stand-Up Paddleboarding
941.281.0215 

SUP stands for Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, an excellent low-key sport for people who love the water. You simply stand on a longboard and use an oar-like paddle to propel yourself through the water. Rentals are available by the hour and by the day.

They also offer SUP lessons, which you can book online for $55 or $65 per person, depending on the size of your lesson group.

4. Sea Kat Divers: SCUBA Diving
105 7th St N, Bradenton

SCUBA diving is a unique and exhilarating way to discover what lies beneath the water. Sea Kat Divers offers single-student classes as well as group classes. The instructors at this PADI-accredited facility emphasize safety and fun, and since they are connected to a dive shop, they can also ensure you have all the equipment you need to dive properly.

5. Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex: Ice Skating
5309 29th St E, Ellenton

If you want to forget about the summer heat for a while, try ice skating at the Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex. They have a "try it free" class every Saturday morning at 10:45 a.m., along with fun public skating sessions for the whole family. 

Have you tried any other unique sports or activities in the area? Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below!