Welcome to Manatee County

In search of a bounty of gold, Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto and his rugged crew of conquistadors stepped ashore the banks of the Manatee River in Florida more than 450 years ago. However, the unclaimed treasure they found was in the form of fertile riverbanks rolling out the welcome mat to a region of breathtaking beauty. The region remained unoccupied for several hundred years until 1842 when another explorer named Josiah Gates and his fellow pioneers laid claim to the area, which was named after the gentle sea cow, or Manatee, seen so frequently in the area's numerous waterways.

In the early years of development, the plentiful waterways provided a ready source of transportation and establishment of the railroad furnished a more accessible thoroughfare for travel. Soon, bridges and roadways helped tie the land together bringing in vacationers who - in the 1920s - discovered Manatee County's numerous affordances and appeal as a vacation destination, as well as a retirement destination for many. Baseball also found the warm, moderate climate conducive to the sport, bringing spring training camps and professional teams to the area.

While maintaining its rich heritage, Manatee County has experienced steady growth through the years. Whether business professionals looking to make their mark on the world, growing young families, or retirees seeking to spend their golden years in a tropical paradise, Manatee County radiates as a favorite locale. In fact, it has been ranked the 21st Best Place to Live in Money Magazine and the Second-Best Mid-Size City to Work from Home by PC Magazine.

So, what is it that attracts people of all ages and demographics to Manatee County? With so much to offer, perhaps it's the melding of the region's picturesque villages with old-Florida style neighborhoods, or the rural atmosphere of the eastern area of the County. Maybe it's the 150 miles of pristine shoreline and sub-tropical climate that could be the attraction. Whatever it is, you are certain to find the very best in the established and history-rich acreage of Manatee County.

If DeSoto were to visit our shores today, he would certainly redefine that bounty for which he was searching...the treasures of Manatee County...discover them for yourself.