Things to do in Cortez
Discover amazing Cortez activities and premium in-home experiences.
Cortez, Florida is a quiet fishing village where the past is preserved in every breeze off the bay. Nestled on the mainland just east of Anna Maria Island, this historic waterfront community offers a salty blend of maritime heritage, fresh seafood, and unspoiled views of Sarasota Bay.
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Cortez is one of Florida’s last true working waterfronts, where commercial fishing boats still dock with the day’s catch and weathered cottages line narrow streets. It’s a place where you can slow down, take in the smell of salt air, and enjoy the rhythm of life by the water. Start your day with a walk through the Florida Maritime Museum, where the village’s rich history comes to life through boat-building exhibits and stories of generations who lived off the sea.
Afterward, head to the docks for the freshest seafood imaginable—Grouper sandwiches, stone crab, and shrimp right off the boat. Dine with a view at a local fish shack or grab a basket to go and picnic at nearby Coquina Beach, just over the bridge. For those looking to get on the water, kayaking through the mangrove tunnels or booking a casual fishing charter offers the perfect way to explore the bay’s quiet beauty.
Greetwell guests can enjoy curated experiences like guided seafood tastings, eco-boat tours through Sarasota Bay, or walking tours that trace Cortez’s storied past.