Stump Pass Beach State Park: Complete Visitor Guide (Things To Do, Parking, Trails)

Stump Pass Beach State Park is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Located on the southern tip of Manasota Key, this hidden gem offers a quieter, more natural alternative to the busier beaches nearby.

With pristine shoreline, scenic trails, and access to both the Gulf and Intracoastal waters, Stump Pass is perfect for visitors looking to explore nature, go kayaking, or simply relax away from the crowds.

ARIEL VIEW OF STUMP PASS STATE BEACH

Stump pass, stump pass state beach, stump pass beach, englewood, stump pass englewood

Why Visit Stump Pass Beach State Park

Unlike more developed beaches, Stump Pass offers a raw, natural Florida experience.

Visitors love it for:

Less crowded, peaceful setting

Access to both Gulf and Intracoastal waters

Excellent kayaking and paddleboarding

Wildlife viewing and nature trails

Great shelling and shark tooth hunting

Where Is Stump Pass Beach State Park Located?

Stump Pass Beach State Park is located at the southern end of Manasota Key in Englewood, Florida.

The park stretches along a narrow peninsula where Lemon Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico, creating a unique coastal environment.

Stump pass, stump pass state beach, stump pass beach, englewood, stump pass englewood, beach

Stump Pass Beach State Park Visitor Information

Here’s what you need to know before visiting:

Hours: Open daily from 8 AM to sunset
Entrance Fee: Approximately $3 per vehicle
Parking: Limited and fills up quickly—arrive early
Facilities: Restrooms, picnic tables, trails
Lifeguards: None

👉 Tip: This park is more “off-the-grid” than Englewood Beach, so bring everything you need.

Things To Do At Stump Pass Beach State Park

Hiking The Nature Trail

One of the highlights of the park is the 1.3-mile trail that leads from the parking area to the tip of Stump Pass.

Along the way, you’ll pass through coastal hammocks, dunes, and scenic shoreline views. Hurricane Milton created a pass (known as Milton's Pass) that cut off the lower portion of Stump Pass State Beach, however it has almost filled in and you can walk across in low tide.

Kayaking And Paddleboarding

Stump Pass is one of the best spots in the area for kayaking and paddleboarding. You can go in the Gulf, or into the intercoastal area known as ski alley.

You can explore:

Calm waters of Lemon Bay

Mangrove-lined shorelines

Remote beach areas

Wildlife sightings like dolphins and manatees are common.

Swimming And Beachcombing

The Gulf side offers beautiful, uncrowded beaches perfect for swimming and relaxing. If the Gulf is rough, the Intracoastal side often provides calmer water conditions.

The water clarity is best when there is an incoming tide, which brings the nice gulf waters into the pass and the intercoastal.

Shelling And Shark Tooth Hunting

Stump Pass is a great location for finding shells and fossilized shark teeth, especially after tides or storms.

Because the beach is less crowded, you often have a better chance of finding untouched areas.

Fishing And Snorkeling

The park offers excellent fishing opportunities both from shore and in nearby waters. You can fish into the Gulf, into Stump Pass, or into the intercoastal. Plenty of fish or even sharks to catch.

Snorkeling is also possible in calm conditions—just be sure to bring your own gear. It is limited to a sandy bottom though.

Wildlife Viewing

Stump Pass is a haven for nature lovers.

You may spot:

Manatees

Dolphins

Sting Rays

Ospreys and shorebirds

Bald Eagles (nest nearby)

Gopher tortoises

The park is part of a protected ecosystem, making it one of the most natural beach environments in the area.

Amenities At Stump Pass Beach State Park

While more natural than other beaches, the park still offers:

Restrooms

Picnic areas and pavilions

Hiking trails

Kayak launch access

👉 Note: There is a new restaurant / bar called the Boatyard that is located at The Manasota Key Resort nearby.

Tips For Visiting Stump Pass Beach State Park

Arrive early—parking is very limited

Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen

Wear comfortable shoes for the trail

Plan for a walk (about 20–30 minutes to the tip)

Check weather conditions before entering the water

Parking At Stump Pass Beach

Parking is very limited at Stump Pass State Beach. There are about fifty (50) parking spaces available.

Parking costs $3.00 per vehicle (up to 8 persons) or if you arrive by bike or by walking it is $2.00 per person.

You can pay by getting the envelope at the pay center, putting you fee in the envelope, tear off the stub and place on your dashboard and then place the envelope in the pay station slot. Or its free if you have an annual state park pass.