Longboat Harbour Yacht Club

Bowlees Creek Inlet Bradenton: Exploring the Hidden Gem

Bowlees Creek Inlet is a hidden gem located on the far northeastern corner of Sarasota Bay, just about two miles west of Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Mile Marker 80. This picturesque spot in Whitfield Estates, FL, offers a serene and beautiful location for boaters and locals alike to explore the natural wonders of the area while enjoying the convenience of its proximity to the bustling cities of Sarasota and Bradenton.

A popular attraction near Bowlees Creek is Bahia Mar West Marina, which was rebranded and revitalized in 2020 by new owners. The marina now offers a variety of updated facilities, amenities, and recreational activities for those looking to immerse themselves in the coastal lifestyle. As a result, Bowlees Creek Inlet and its surroundings have quickly become a must-visit destination for both local and visiting boaters.

The diverse ecosystems found in and around Bowlees Creek contribute to the area's appeal as a haven for flora and fauna. This, coupled with ongoing efforts to improve the identification and management of flood-prone regions in the Bowlees Creek watershed, make it an ideal location for nature enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers to discover and appreciate Florida's unique environment.

Location

Bowlees Creek Inlet is a beautiful waterway situated in Manatee County, Southwest Florida. It is located close to the far northeastern corner of Sarasota Bay, about two miles west of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Mile Marker 80 (source). This inlet is within Bradenton, a city known for its vibrant art and cultural scene, nestled between Tampa and Sarasota.

The Bowlees Creek area is surrounded by numerous neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. Near the inlet, you'll find Whitfield Estates, a comfortable hamlet that offers a relaxed atmosphere. Other localities close to Bowlees Creek include Ballentine Manor, Matoaka, South Bradenton, Cedar Hammock, and West Samoset (source).

In addition to its close proximity to Bradenton, Bowlees Creek Inlet is also not far from the city of Sarasota, another popular destination in Southwest Florida. The inlet's strategic location allows residents and visitors to easily access a variety of attractions and amenities in both Bradenton and Sarasota. Whether you are looking for a peaceful boating experience or a day trip to the bustling city centers, Bowlees Creek Inlet offers easy access to the best that Southwest Florida has to offer.

Nearby cities, such as Tallevast and Oneco, provide a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options for those visiting or residing in the area. The region offers a rich blend of recreational activities, from exploring the arts and culture of downtown Bradenton to enjoying the natural beauty of surrounding parks and reserves.

For boaters and water enthusiasts, the Bowlees Creek Inlet is home to the Bowlees Creek Marina, where you can find a variety of services and amenities to accommodate your needs. The marina's location allows for easy access to both Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, providing an opportunity for endless water-based adventures (source).

Bowlees Creek Marina

Located in the far northeastern corner of Sarasota Bay, Bowlees Creek Marina is situated about two miles west of Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Mile Marker 80 ^(source). Its coordinates are 27° 24' 36.0" N latitude and -82° 34' 50.15" W longitude. The marina is nestled off of the beautiful Sarasota Bay and can be found at 6918 14th Street West in Bradenton, Florida ^(source).

Bowlees Creek Marina offers a variety of essential services for boaters. However, specific information regarding the number of total slips, minimum and maximum length capacity, and the approach and dock depths is not readily available ^(source).

In 2020, new owners took over the marina, recognizing the potential of Bowlees Creek Marina. They rebranded it as Bahia Mar West with a vision to provide both locals and boaters a new "must-go" destination ^(source). They have been working on many updates, improvements, and expansions to make the marina an attractive and essential spot for boaters in the area.

Strategically located in Bradenton, Bowlees Creek Marina serves as a convenient stopover for boaters traversing Florida's Gulf Coast, south of Tampa and north of Sarasota. With plans for continuous updates and improvements, the marina will only become more attractive to boaters in the coming years.

Services and Amenities

Bowlees Creek Inlet is a beautiful and convenient marina destination located on the northeastern corner of Sarasota Bay. Providing an array of services and amenities for boaters, this marina ensures a great experience for visitors exploring the Bradenton area.

One of the key features of Bowlees Creek Marina is the availability of slips for docking your boat. The marina can accommodate different boat sizes, with various approach and dock depths. Easily accessible, these slips provide a secure and comfortable space for your vessel during your stay.

Amenities at the marina are designed to cater to the needs of boaters. There are well-maintained restrooms on-site, providing convenience and cleanliness for visitors. Additionally, ice is also available for purchase to keep your food and beverages cold during your boat trips.

While Bowlees Creek Marina does not offer fuel services directly, there are nearby marinas where you can refill your gas. For instance, Bahia Mar West Marina, is located along the Florida's Gulf Coast to the south of Tampa, offering fuel services.

As for other amenities, Bowlees Creek Inlet takes pride in providing a welcoming and friendly atmosphere for boaters. You can expect excellent customer service from the staff, and the marina's easily accessible location ensures a hassle-free experience while exploring the Bradenton area.

In summary, Bowlees Creek Inlet is an ideal marina with essential services and amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for boaters visiting the Bradenton region. With slips, restrooms, and ice available, as well as a friendly atmosphere, this marina is a great choice for your next boating adventure.

Reviews and Experiences

Visitors have shared positive experiences about Bowlees Creek Inlet in Bradenton, Florida. Located on the far northeastern corner of Sarasota Bay, the inlet offers picturesque views and a convenient location about two miles west of Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Mile Marker 80 ¹.

Previously known as Bowlees Creek Marina, the establishment was bought by new owners in 2020 and rebranded as Bahia Mar West ². Since then, the marina has undergone several updates, improvements, and added amenities, making it a popular destination for both locals and boaters.

Those who frequent the marina have praised its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. Fishing enthusiasts particularly enjoy the variety of fish found in the area, including snook, redfish, and spotted sea trout ³. The nearby Pleasant Lake RV Resort, ranked as the second-best specialty lodging in Bradenton, offers visitors a comfortable stay and easy access to the marina ⁴.

However, not all reviews are glowing, and it's essential to consider that individual experiences may vary. Some visitors might encounter challenges due to weather or other natural conditions. It's always wise to prepare for the unexpected while enjoying any destination.

Overall, Bowlees Creek Inlet and Bahia Mar West Marina offer a memorable experience for those visiting the Bradenton area, with beautiful natural surroundings, great fishing, and an ever-evolving marina.

Accessibility and Neighboring Areas

Bowlees Creek inlet is located in Bradenton, Florida, offering both locals and visitors easy access to a picturesque waterfront area. The creek is situated near the northeastern corner of Sarasota Bay, approximately two miles west of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Mile Marker 80¹. Its convenient location makes it popular for boaters and water enthusiasts looking to explore the surrounding area.

Within the Bradenton region, there are numerous nearby cities and attractions. One noteworthy nearby destination is Sarasota, a popular city on the Gulf Coast of Southwest Florida². Aside from its beautiful coastal surroundings, Sarasota is known for its rich cultural attractions, including performances, galleries, and the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art².

Several marinas are situated near Bowlees Creek, such as the Bahia Mar West Marina. Purchased by new owners in 2020, the marina underwent a rebranding and has since implemented various updates, improvements, and amenities³. Boaters visiting the area can expect facilities offering services like fuel, marine supplies, maintenance, and boat repair⁴.

For those interested in exploring the area from a bird's-eye view, there is a satellite map available, depicting the geographical features of Bowlees Creek and its surroundings². The map can help boaters and visitors with navigation, ensuring they make the most out of their trip to Bowlees Creek inlet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best fishing spots near Bowlees Creek Inlet in Bradenton?

Bowlees Creek Inlet is located in the northeastern corner of Sarasota Bay, two miles west of Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Mile Marker 80 source. While there may not be specific fishing spots mentioned for this area, you can safely assume that the surrounding waters are good for fishing, especially near the inlet where marine life may be more diverse.

Which boating activities are popular at Bowlees Creek Inlet?

Bowlees Creek Inlet offers a variety of boating activities given its location on Sarasota Bay and its close proximity to the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. Boating enthusiasts can enjoy recreational boating, fishing trips, and sailing in the area. Nearby marinas like Bahia Mar West Marina may offer services and amenities for boaters visiting the inlet.

Are there any tour options for exploring Bowlees Creek Inlet?

While no specific tours are mentioned in the search results, it's possible that local tour operators might offer guided trips exploring the waterways in and around Bowlees Creek Inlet. Visitors can also rent boats or kayaks from nearby marinas and embark on self-guided tours to explore the inlet and surrounding areas.

What kind of wildlife can be spotted at Bowlees Creek Inlet?

No specific wildlife information is given for Bowlees Creek Inlet, but the location along Sarasota Bay and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway suggests an abundance of marine and bird life in the area. Visitors might see a variety of seabirds, fish species, and possibly marine mammals like dolphins and manatees.

What facilities are available at Bowlees Creek Inlet for visitors?

While there are no details on facilities directly at Bowlees Creek Inlet, nearby marinas such as Bahia Mar West Marina offer various services and amenities for boaters. Visitor facilities in the area likely include docks, boat ramps, and access to essential marina services.

Are there any nearby parks or recreational areas near Bowlees Creek Inlet in Bradenton?

There may not be specific parks or recreational areas immediately adjacent to Bowlees Creek Inlet, but the larger Sarasota Bay and Gulf Intracoastal Waterway areas offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and nature exploration. Additionally, local parks and recreational areas around Bradenton provide further options for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities along the waterfront.

Footnotes

1. https://marinas.com/view/inlet/v2imx_Bowlees_Creek_Inlet_Whitfield_Estates_FL_United_States ↩ ↩²

2. https://marinas.com/view/marina/mnc1j7_Bahia_Mar_West_Marina_Bradenton_FL_United_States ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴

3. https://www.hookandbullet.com/fishing-bowlees-creek-whitfield-fl/ ↩ ↩²

4. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g60786-d9866830-Reviews-Pleasant_Lake_RV_Resort-Bradenton_Florida.html ↩ ↩²