Leffis Key Preserve

Discover LEFFIS KEY PRESERVE, a captivating Manatee County island preserve featuring the inviting COQUINA BEACH BAYWALK trail. Nestled off the southern end of Anna Maria Island on Gulf Drive, directly across from the public Coquina Beach, this preserve transforms a spoil island with native coastal vegetation into a harmonious natural habitat. The central 26-foot high hill stands as a focal point, providing panoramic vistas of the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay.

Explore the nature trails, comprising packed shells and 1,500 feet of boardwalk, some extending over open water with viewing platforms. These trails ascend or loop around the hill, guiding you through mangroves, hardwood forests, mudflats, and tidal ponds. Please note that dogs are not permitted in the preserve. The Bay Walk trail commences at a parking lot accommodating 15-20 cars, where covered picnic pavilions add to the convenience. Enjoy public restrooms available at the nearby public beach, and relish the experience with no admission fee.

A Must-See at the Preserve: 

• Boardwalks overlook the intercoastal waterways where you may see spotted sandpipers and other peeps along with other wading birds. 
• Newly constructed tiki observation platforms at the top of the hill gives spectacular views of the park where you can likely see Magnificent Frigatebirds flying above. 
• Walk through the mangrove forest with several observation spots. Locally rare birds, such as Connecticut, Swainson’s, Cerulean and Townsend’s Warbler, and Olive-sided Flycatcher, have been spotted frequently, especially during migrations.

Birds you may encounter while visiting: 

eBird 231 species recorded

• 37 Warbler Species
• Herons
• Egrets
• Pelicans
• Magnificent Frigatebird
• Reddish Egret 
• Sandpipers
• Night-Herons
• Prairie Warblers
• Flycatchers
• Grosbeaks
• Tanagers