Looking for solitude? Stump Pass Beach, at the southern end of Manasota Key, gives you access to the Gulf of Mexico. A hiking trail winds from the restrooms and free parking to the southern tip of the island. A few covered picnic tables can be found at various overlooks. The boardwalk crosses native vegetation and dunes along the beach where you can swim, snorkel, fish and sunbathe. In the summer months, you can watch turtles migrating here. Parking is rather scarce and there is no lifeguard here.