Useppa Island Recreation & Activities
Island Recreation Abounds
Active lifestyle enthusiasts, boating enthusiasts, the avid angler and passionate player are perfectly suited for the Useppa Island recreation opportunities.
Enjoy 2 Har-Tru tennis courts, the greenest croquet lawn, anywhere, on which to enjoy 6 wicket and golf croquet, plus an adjacent 9 wicket croquet court for those that really enjoy “backyard Croquet.”
And, don’t forget the swimming pool and spa. The fitness center has all the equipment needed to stay in shape.
Opportunities for outdoor activity include kayaking — around the island, or through the Tunnel of Love to the Gulf beaches, along with 2 miles of tranquil paths and cart-ways for biking, walking, running, or strolling and holding hands.
Join in numerous social activities, along with community celebrations throughout the year. Children, pets, owners and guests are always welcome.
Fishing
Fishing has an extensive history on Useppa, from the Paleo people to the well-equipped Tarpon fishermen in the world. Inshore, the extensive flats and mangrove keys of Pine Sound offer snook, trout, snapper, cobia, grouper and more. For the offshore angler, Boca Grande Pass to the Gulf of Mexico is 5 minutes from your dock. Whether deep water or flats…fly fishing or spinning reel, it doesn’t get much better.
Boating
Boating is a way of life on Useppa. Many found Useppa while cruising by or anchoring at the nearby Anchorage. Almost everything that comes to Useppa arrives by boat. We fish, sail, cruise, picnic, paddle, play with, on and around boats. We have authors of “how to do boat stuff” living on Useppa. We have national sailing competitors, on Island…and we have a fleet of single-design Marshall Catboats that race every weekend…then celebrate wins, losses and near misses with hamburgers, hot dogs and a beer. And, those that don’t boat — always make it to the end-of-the-day “victory” party.
Tennis
There are two lighted Har-Tru clay courts, adjacent to the Collier Inn and a casually organized Tennis Club.
A local pro is available weekends, and by special appointment.
Sailing
Endless hours on the water is a Useppa Island favorite. From leisurely morning winds to more serious races throughout the year, experienced sailors and excited newcomers are always welcome.
Useppa Yacht Club
The Useppa Yacht Club has always been about the “spirit of sailing” for those who enjoy the pristine waters of Pine Island Sound. During the winter months, there are 15-20 15-foot Marshall Sandpiper Catboats moored off the beach and can be seen circumnavigating Useppa, heading out to the Gulf on a calm day or enjoying a sunset cruise.
The UIYC By-laws state “NO MEMBERS! NO DUES! NO RULES! And, if you have an idea…it’s yours to do!”
Now, on our fourth Commodore in almost 30 years, the Useppa Yacht Club continues to be a huge success, existing in the minds of Useppa’s sailing families versus any specific structure. Our Charter is to have fun!
Each winter Saturday, we race…very seriously, complete with a well experienced race committee and chase boats, along with photographers. The morning of races is followed by a group critique session and hamburgers and hot dogs on the beach. Good times!
Each spring, we have the Jack McMahon Regatta, primarily for UIYC members. And, every other spring we host The Catboat Rendezvous, which attracts a number of boats and aficionados from wherever catboats are a way of life and are loved. It’s normally a 3-4 day affair with lots of fun things, other than just sailing.
The author of “The Competitive Cat, Racing Small Gaff-Rigged Catboats” Dr. Bill Welch is a Useppa resident, along with a number of other very skilled sailors, all of whom love to teach newcomers to sail. Join us!!
Kayaking
The waters that surround Useppa are some of the best in the world for kayaking…whether for fun, exercise, enjoying nature up close and personal, or for some serious fishing.
There is even a “secret” place – the “Tunnel of Love” where you can paddle across Cayo Costa, right to the Gulf of Mexico.
Kayaks can be rented at the Club, for a day or a week.
Fitness
Members and guests enjoy a well-equipment and climate-controlled workout facility with some serious history. The Fitness Center resides in what was the Casino in the early 1900s and has both commercial free weights and cardio fitness equipment. There’s something to rev your heart rate whether you are just filling time, or are committed and focused on physical conditioning.
No matter your age, or stage in life, enjoy abundant Useppa Island recreation and…make your Escape.