One of Florida’s primary Gulf Coast cities, Sarasota is renowned for sun, sand and water. It’s home to 35-miles of coastline and award-winning white sand beaches like Siesta Key, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation, as well as Venice Beach, the Shark Tooth Capital of the World (yes, you read that right).
Accommodation wise, guests can choose to be right on the beach, or head into downtown. Sarasota’s downtown is a hub of arts, culture, trendy cafe’s and buzzing rooftop bars. St Armands Circle, just off Lido Beach, is the ideal spot to enjoy a sundowner cocktail from one of the many terraced restaurants and enjoy the delicious Gulf coast cuisine paired with live music. Heading further south to Siesta Key you’ll find not only a world-class award-winning white sandy beach, but also a quaint village of restaurants, bars and plenty happy hours to keep the party alive.
Sarasota is a sophisticated destination that offers not only the perfect relaxing beach break, but also family-friendly activities on and off the water, a buzzing downtown and natural adventures such as a hands-on marine laboratory and the State’s largest State Park.
Things To See & Do
Although only a two-hour drive from Orlando’s famous attractions, Sarasota has a plethora of activities for all types of personalities to enjoy.
- Myakka State Park: Kayak or take an airboat ride along Florida’s largest State Park. Explore the scenic Myakka River by kayak or airboat and spot the alligators, birds and other exotic wildlife.
- Shopping: Make sure you save some room in your suitcase as Sarasota has an excellent retail scene complete with designer options, boutique stalls and two impressive shopping malls.
- The Ringling: With museums, galleries and theatres galore, Sarasota is also the place to be if you’re a culture vulture. The Ringling, in particular, is worth a visit as it celebrates the circus magnate family who set up their winter home here in the 1920s. You’ll have the opportunity to view old circus costumes up close, admire the wagons, and see the world’s largest miniature circus among the 66-acre grounds.
Food & Drink
Sarasota boasts award-winning chefs and multiple Zagat-rated restaurants, as well as tons of other culinary experiences for those with more adventurous taste-buds. Enjoy fresh produce from a farmers market, head to Pinecraft, a small Amish and Mennonite neighbourhood for some delectable homecooked food, or have a bite to eat at one of the many food-based festivals hosted throughout the year, the choice is yours.
Savour Sarasota Restaurant Week during the first two weeks of June is an annual favourite where diners can enjoy pre-fixe 2 course lunches and 3 course dinners at the best local restaurants for $20pp for lunch, and $35pp for dinner.
Sarasota also has a vibrant nightlife offering, including swanky rooftop bars, craft beer bars, tiki bars and live music options.
