Blind Pass Beach

Also known as Middle Beach on Manasota Key, Blind Pass draws people who prefer peace and quiet to convenience and crowds. There are no lifeguards, no concessions, no restaurants, no convenience stores. At the restroom and showering area, there's one water fountain and a single vending machine offering plastic bottles of soda for $1.25. Crossing Manasota Key Road from the parking lot to the beach can be an adventure -- moms clutch their children's hands for dear life -- but it's worth the trip. Blind Pass is a gently curving beach at a bend in the island.