Sarasota, Florida: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota boasts sand made of 99% pure quartz crystal? This remarkable feature keeps the sand cool to the touch even on the hottest summer days, making it one of the most comfortable beaches to walk barefoot anywhere in the world. Sarasota isn’t just another Florida beach town – it’s a vibrant cultural hub where pristine Gulf Coast beaches meet world-class arts, dining, and outdoor adventures.

Getting to Sarasota

Sarasota is conveniently located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, about an hour south of Tampa. The Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) offers direct flights from many major cities, making it easy to reach this coastal paradise. Alternatively, you can fly into Tampa International Airport (TPA) or Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers and drive to Sarasota.

Best Time to Visit Sarasota

Sarasota enjoys a warm climate year-round, but the most pleasant time to visit is from November to May when temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 80s with minimal rainfall. This peak season offers ideal weather for beach activities and outdoor exploration. Summer months (June through September) bring higher temperatures and humidity, along with afternoon thunderstorms, but also fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates.

Getting Around Sarasota

While having a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Sarasota and its surrounding areas, the city does offer public transportation options. The Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) provides bus service throughout the county, and there’s a free trolley service on Siesta Key. For exploring downtown, walking or biking is a pleasant option, especially during cooler months.

Where to Stay in Sarasota

Sarasota offers accommodations for every preference and budget, from luxury beachfront resorts to charming downtown boutique hotels. For beach lovers, Siesta Key and Longboat Key provide stunning Gulf views and easy beach access. Downtown Sarasota puts you close to restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions. For a more secluded experience, consider Anna Maria Island just north of Sarasota.

Sarasota’s Beautiful Beaches

Sarasota’s beaches consistently rank among the best in the world, each with its own distinct character and appeal. From the famous powder-soft quartz sand of Siesta Key to the more secluded shores of Longboat Key, beach lovers will find their perfect spot along Sarasota’s coastline.

Siesta Key Beach

Consistently ranked among America’s best beaches, Siesta Key’s 99% quartz sand stays cool even on the hottest days. The beach features excellent facilities including restrooms, picnic areas, a playground, and volleyball courts. Don’t miss the Sunday evening Siesta Key Drum Circle for a unique local experience.

Lido Beach

Located on Lido Key, this beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere than Siesta Key while still providing beautiful views and amenities. After enjoying the beach, you can explore the shops and restaurants at nearby St. Armands Circle.

Longboat Key

For a more upscale and less crowded beach experience, head to Longboat Key. The beaches here are pristine with limited public access points, making them feel more exclusive and peaceful.

Venice Beach

Known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World,” Venice Beach is perfect for those who enjoy beachcombing. Bring a sifter to search for prehistoric shark teeth that regularly wash ashore.

Cultural Attractions in Sarasota

Sarasota is known as Florida’s Cultural Coast for good reason. The city boasts a rich arts scene, world-class museums, and a fascinating circus heritage that offers visitors plenty to explore beyond the beaches.

The Ringling

The crown jewel of Sarasota’s cultural scene, The Ringling complex includes the Museum of Art, Circus Museum, and Ca’ d’Zan—the spectacular Mediterranean Revival mansion that was home to circus magnate John Ringling and his wife. The 66-acre bayfront property also features stunning gardens perfect for strolling. Museum of Art admission is free on Mondays.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

This bayfront oasis showcases rare tropical plants, including one of the world’s most impressive orchid collections. The gardens frequently host art exhibitions that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating a unique cultural experience.

Sarasota Art Museum

Housed in the historic Sarasota High School building, this contemporary art museum opened in 2019 and has quickly become a cultural hotspot. The museum features rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art in a beautifully renovated space.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

This distinctive purple seashell-shaped building hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and performances by world-renowned artists. Check their schedule when planning your visit to catch a performance.

Outdoor Adventures in Sarasota

Beyond its beaches and cultural attractions, Sarasota offers abundant opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to connect with Florida’s natural beauty. From kayaking through mangrove tunnels to exploring state parks, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had.

Myakka River State Park

One of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks, Myakka River offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and a canopy walkway that takes you above the treetops. Don’t miss the airboat tours that provide close-up views of alligators and diverse bird species.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Explore Sarasota’s waterways by kayak or paddleboard. The mangrove tunnels at Lido Key are particularly popular, offering a unique paddling experience through natural canopies. Several outfitters offer guided tours and rentals.

Ted Sperling Park

Located at South Lido Beach, this park offers a mix of beach activities and nature trails. It’s an excellent spot for kayaking, with routes that take you through mangrove forests teeming with wildlife.

Fishing Charters

Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico offer excellent fishing opportunities. Charter boats are available for both inshore and offshore fishing experiences, with knowledgeable captains who know the best spots.

Sarasota’s Culinary Scene

Sarasota’s dining scene has exploded in recent years, offering everything from fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine to international flavors and craft cocktails. The city hosts an annual “Savor Sarasota” event in June, when many restaurants offer prix-fixe menus, making it an excellent time for food lovers to visit.

Seafood Restaurants

Given its coastal location, Sarasota excels at seafood. Owen’s Fish Camp in downtown offers a charming Old Florida atmosphere with excellent fresh catches. Walt’s Fish Market combines a seafood market with a casual restaurant serving ultra-fresh seafood. For upscale seafood dining, Jack Dusty at the Ritz-Carlton offers waterfront views and creative coastal cuisine.

St. Armands Circle Dining

This elegant shopping and dining district features numerous restaurants with outdoor seating. Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest restaurant, serves Spanish and Cuban cuisine in a beautiful setting. Shore Restaurant offers contemporary American fare with a focus on seafood.

Downtown Dining

Downtown Sarasota boasts a diverse range of dining options. Indigenous Restaurant showcases locally sourced ingredients in an intimate setting. Selva Grill offers innovative Peruvian cuisine, while State Street Eating House + Cocktails serves craft cocktails alongside modern American dishes.

Shopping in Sarasota

From upscale boutiques to charming local shops, Sarasota offers diverse shopping experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for designer fashion, unique souvenirs, or local art, you’ll find plenty of options throughout the area.

St. Armands Circle

This elegant shopping district features a European-inspired circular layout with over 130 boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. You’ll find everything from high-end fashion and jewelry to unique gifts and specialty foods. The pedestrian-friendly design makes it perfect for a leisurely shopping day.

Downtown Sarasota

Main Street and the surrounding downtown area offer a mix of local boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. Don’t miss Canned Ham Vintage for unique retro finds or Camilyn Beth for locally designed women’s clothing.

Mall at University Town Center

For traditional mall shopping, the Mall at University Town Center features over 100 stores including Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, and numerous designer boutiques in an upscale indoor setting.

Farmers Markets

The Sarasota Farmers Market, held downtown every Saturday morning, showcases local produce, artisanal foods, handcrafted items, and more. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and pick up unique souvenirs.

Day Trips from Sarasota

While Sarasota offers plenty to keep visitors entertained, its central location on Florida’s Gulf Coast makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations. These day trips provide a change of scenery and additional experiences to enhance your Sarasota vacation.

Anna Maria Island

Just a 30-minute drive north of Sarasota, Anna Maria Island offers a laid-back Old Florida atmosphere with beautiful beaches, charming shops, and excellent restaurants. The free trolley makes it easy to explore the island without a car once you arrive.

Tampa

About an hour’s drive north, Tampa offers big-city attractions including Busch Gardens theme park, the Florida Aquarium, and Ybor City’s historic district with its Cuban heritage and vibrant nightlife.

Venice

Just 20 minutes south of Sarasota, Venice is known for its Italian Renaissance architecture, shark tooth hunting on Venice Beach, and charming downtown shopping district. The Venice Fishing Pier is a popular spot for watching dolphins and enjoying sunset views.

Practical Tips for Visiting Sarasota

Getting Around

While a rental car provides the most flexibility, Sarasota does offer public transportation options. The SCAT bus system covers most of the county, and free trolleys operate on Siesta Key and in downtown Sarasota. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout the area.

Beach Parking

Arrive early (before 10 AM) to secure parking at popular beaches, especially Siesta Key Beach during peak season. Consider visiting beaches on weekdays when possible to avoid crowds. Some beaches offer free parking, while others charge hourly or daily fees.

Weather Preparedness

Florida’s sun can be intense, so pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer months, but they typically pass quickly. Hurricane season runs from June through November, so check weather forecasts if traveling during these months.

Local Etiquette

Sarasota has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Casual attire is acceptable in most places, though some upscale restaurants may require more formal dress. Tipping 15-20% is customary for restaurant service, and don’t forget to respect beach and park rules regarding wildlife and conservation.

Experience the Best of Sarasota

From its world-famous beaches with powder-soft sand to its vibrant cultural scene and outdoor adventures, Sarasota offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for every type of traveler. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Siesta Key, admiring masterpieces at The Ringling, kayaking through mangrove tunnels, or savoring fresh seafood with Gulf views, Sarasota’s diverse attractions create unforgettable vacation memories.

With its year-round pleasant weather and welcoming atmosphere, there’s never a bad time to discover why Sarasota continues to enchant visitors from around the world. Start planning your Sarasota getaway today and experience the magic of Florida’s Cultural Coast for yourself!