Sarasota, Florida is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, but visitors will quickly discover that this coastal city has much more to offer. With its white-sand beaches, clear blue skies, and subtropical climate, Sarasota has something for everyone. From beautiful public beaches and top-notch shopping centers to world-renowned circus museums, it’s easy to see why this city is considered a true gem of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Accommodations and Places to Stay
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious 5-star resort or a family-friendly hotel, Sarasota offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every travel style and budget. If boutique living near the beach sounds appealing, Art Ovation Hotel delivers a unique experience. Located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, the hotel features immersive art exhibits and a rooftop bar with stunning views.
For a more laid-back vibe, Golden Host Resort offers a refreshing change of pace, complete with the Bahi Hut — Florida’s oldest tiki bar — right on site.
Families will enjoy the options at Casey Key Resorts, which offers both mainland and beachfront accommodations in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Travelers seeking familiar comforts can choose from well-known hotels like the Hyatt Regency Sarasota, conveniently located near downtown.
If traditional hotels and resorts aren’t your style, consider a vacation rental at Sun-N-Fun RV Resort. This lively campground blends outdoor living with resort-style amenities, making it ideal for overnight stays or longer visits. With over 150 activities available, Sun-N-Fun is a great pick for active travelers of all ages.
Beaches and Waterfront Activities
When booking a trip to Sarasota, most travelers have one thing on their mind — the beach. Luckily, the area is home to both private and public beaches, all showcasing the region’s famous white, powdery sand and calm Gulf Coast waters.
One standout is Siesta Key Beach, a local and tourist favorite that consistently earns top marks from experienced travelers and beach experts. In fact, Tripadvisor named it the #1 Beach in America for 2025. Families will love its many amenities, including free parking, picnic tables, playgrounds and concessions — perfect for a full day of sun, fun and relaxation. For a unique and lively experience, head to Siesta Key on Sunday evening for the Siesta Key Drum Circle at sunset.
Beach lovers can also visit Venice Beach, where you might catch a glimpse of baby sea turtles during hatching season that makes for a magical moment for nature enthusiasts. For a relaxing end to your day, try fishing from the Venice Fishing Pier, often accompanied by a peaceful sunset.
If you’re craving a bit more adventure, consider snorkeling, sailing or dolphin spotting at places like Lido Beach or Anna Maria Island, where the occasional breaching dolphin adds extra excitement to your day.
Adventure and Unique Experiences
Beyond the beaches, Sarasota offers a wide range of events and activities year-round that are sure to leave an impact on those visiting this coastal city. Located right on the water, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium invites families and people of all ages to learn about the ocean’s wonders through one-of-a-kind experiences. Whether it is kayaking through Sarasota Bay or catching sea life in dip nets, Mote Marine Lab teaches visitors the importance of conservation and the ecosystem. If that wasn’t enough to sell you, the new Mote Science Education Aquarium is sure to take things up a notch.
Nature lovers can also drive across Sarasota Bay back downtown to visit Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Named on the “World’s Greatest Places 2024” list in The Wall Street Journal, the garden is home to 5,000 living plants that can be found across the world and in your backyard. If you have kids, take them on the city’s free trolley that has stops all along the city and hop off at Urfer Family Park to enjoy its mega-playground. While you’re at it, take a trip to the wild side and stop at one of the exotic animal petting zoos for some interactive wildlife encounters.
Events and Festivals
Sarasota hosts exciting events year-round. Don’t miss the Sarasota Film Festival in spring, showcasing independent films from around the world. The Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival brings fresh flavors and live bands downtown each winter. Art lovers will enjoy the Sarasota Chalk Festival, where streets turn into colorful works of art.
For cultural flair, the Sarasota Opera and local theater companies often hold seasonal performances and special events. No matter when you visit, there’s likely something fun happening — perfect for families, couples or solo travelers looking to experience the city’s creative and lively spirit.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
Sarasota is also full of cultural attractions that offer something for everyone.
Feeling a bit zany? Check out The Ringling, a well-known 20-acre estate that was once home to the Ringling Bros. Circus. While there, explore the Circus Museum, the peaceful Bayfront Gardens, the historic Ca’ d’Zan mansion and the John & Mabel Ringling Museum of Art. Inside the art museum, don’t miss the rotating exhibitions in the Searing Wing.
If you’re up for more, visit the Sarasota Art Museum to enjoy modern sculpture installations, or explore the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, known for its extensive fossil collection.
Not into museums? Sing a different tune and catch a live performance at the Sarasota Opera House, where world-class productions take the stage year-round.
For something more laid-back, spend a relaxing afternoon at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens or browse stacks of books at the historic Selby Library — a beloved spot for readers and researchers alike.
Or, for a playful and hands-on experience, visit Sarasota Jungle Gardens, where you can hand-feed flamingos, meet exotic birds and even pet a lemur. It’s a perfect stop for families or anyone young at heart.
Dining and Culinary Experiences
Hungry? Don’t worry — Sarasota’s diverse dining scene has something to satisfy every craving, even for the pickiest eater. From freshly caught seafood to hand-churned ice cream, travelers have plenty of delicious options to choose from.
For waterfront dining with a view, Marina Jack delivers fresh seafood and sunset vibes. If you’re in the mood for something cozy and Southern, Owen’s Fish Camp offers laid-back charm and low-country flavors.
Craving Italian? Venezia Pizza is known for its authentic dishes and warm hospitality. For a quick bite, Palm Avenue Deli serves up classic sandwiches with a local twist, while Toasted Mango Café is a favorite for hearty breakfasts with tropical flair.
Have a sweet tooth? Treat yourself to rich, creamy scoops at Main Street Creamery or grab a box of warm, sugary goodness from Meaney’s Mini Donuts. Adventurous foodies can try the spiral-shaped Kurtos Chimney Cake & Bread, a local favorite inspired by a 300-year-old Hungarian recipe.
For a more refined evening out, Tzeva offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a stylish, artistic setting. And if you’re in the mood for bold flavors and hearty portions, Alpine Steakhouse serves classic cuts with old-school charm.
Nightlife and Entertainment
When the sun goes down, the city’s nightlife scene lights up with energy and charm. Downtown Sarasota is the center of it all, where Main Street shops and restaurants and bars stay open late — some even until 3 a.m. — serving everything from craft cocktails to late-night bites.
If you’re in the mood for a more artistic evening, take a walk past the city’s public art installations or step into one of the many galleries featuring work from talented local artists.
Music lovers can find live music performances at nearly every corner, or enjoy a show at the Sarasota Opera House, which hosts everything from classical productions to contemporary acts.
And if you’re a fan of craft beer, the Sarasota Craft Beer Guide is your go-to resource for finding the best local breweries and spots for late-night drinks serving up unique Florida-made flavors.
Outdoor Recreation and Parks
After a lively night out, travelers can slow things down at one of Sarasota’s many outdoor spaces. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Legacy Trail, a scenic stretch of bike paths perfect for cycling, jogging or taking a leisurely stroll through Florida’s lush landscapes.
For a deeper connection with nature, Myakka River State Park features expansive campgrounds, wildlife viewing and guided kayak tours along its winding waterways. Nearby, Oscar Scherer State Park highlights the rare Florida scrub habitat, making it a great spot for birdwatching and peaceful hikes.
If you’re drawn to the coast, Sarasota Bayfront Park offers beautiful views and easy access to white-sand beaches, while South Creek provides a quiet, serene escape for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Shopping and Local Markets
If you’re ready to splurge, Sarasota offers plenty of shopping options for every taste. Start with a visit to the Sarasota Farmers Market, where you can browse fresh produce, handmade goods and tasty treats from over 100 local vendors, including bakeries and more.
For a more traditional shopping experience, St. Armands Circle features a mix of boutiques and gift shops in a charming outdoor setting.
If you love treasure hunting, explore local flea and street markets, or check out craft and vintage markets for unique, one-of-a-kind finds.
From stylish department stores to lively shopping malls, Sarasota blends coastal charm with retail variety — making it a shopper’s paradise.
Sports and Recreation
Sports fans will also find plenty to enjoy, even if they’re away from their home team. Catch a game at Ed Smith Stadium, the Baltimore Orioles’ Spring Training site and a seasonal favorite for baseball lovers.
Soccer enthusiasts can cheer on Sarasota Paradise Soccer, the city’s semi-professional USL team, at the Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch, the team’s home field.
For those who prefer to stay active, Sarasota also offers beautifully maintained golf courses and public tennis courts — perfect for a sunny day of recreation and fun.
Take it All in — Sarasota Awaits
As you can see, Sarasota truly has something for everyone. Spend one day relaxing on the beach and the next exploring a petting zoo, it’s all up to you. No matter the time of year or how long you stay, you’ll likely find yourself planning your next visit before you’ve even left, already dreaming of your next Sarasota adventure.