Hey, folks!
Having lived in Sarasota, Florida for the past 4 years, I believe it is time to share my favorite things to do and see in this beautiful part of the state.
1.
Siesta Key Beach - Voted the best beach in America in 2011 and 2017 on the annual Dr. Beach list, you will be greeted by sparkling, turquoise waters that are as warm as a bathtub in the Summer, and a blanket of powder-white sand made of quartz. If you compare Siesta Key sand to talcum powder, it is difficult to tell the difference! Reflecting the sun, this powdery sand stays cool under your feet all year long. The area has recently been updated with a huge concession stand, numerous grills ("BBQ's"), and a playground for the kiddos. While spending time on this beautiful beach, prepare to witness some of the most dramatic sunsets you have ever seen!
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| Siesta Key Beach - Captured by Maree's Mum |
2. Turtle Beach - This lesser-known beach is directly south of Siesta Key. It boasts peace and quiet away from the crowds, particularly if you walk a couple of miles north from the main entrance. The sands are coarse and grey, and the waves are a little bigger than nearby beaches - well, as big as waves can get in the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. 😉 The turtle nesting season stretches from as early as May, to as late as October. There are usually hundreds of protected turtle nests dotted along this beach - a gentle reminder of just how magical our ocean life and animal kingdom is!
3. Myakka State Park - Sarasota does not only offer some of the best beaches in America, but is also the home to state parks and wetlands. These places are excellent for biking and hiking, and you are almost guaranteed to spot alligators at Myakka. Gators are beautifully intimidating creatures. Keep your distance!
Insider tip: bring your camera with a zoom-lens for some epic photos. 😊 There is a boardwalk over the lake, and a canopy walkway with a vertical stairway that takes you above the treeline for incredible views. The airboat is a fun way to cruise around the lake to spot some birds and gators. From our experience, some of the more remote hiking trails are poorly signed, with just a few inconspicuous paint marks on trees every few hundred meters. Thus, if you attempt one of these, it's critical that you keep track of landmarks to avoid getting lost.
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| Myakka State Park - Captured by Maree Richardson |
4. Kayaking around Lido Key and the Mangroves at South Lido County Park - Rent a kayak and paddle through the shallow mangrove tunnels. You will see crabs scuttling, fish swimming, and a variety of birds.
Insider tip: bring your bug repellent ("mozzie spray")! Also, bring your lunch, a cold beer, a fishing pole, and life is goooooood!
5. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens - This is the place for plant lovers. It features thousands of orchards and bromeliads, an abundance of tropical plants, a butterfly garden, and a koi fish pond. Bring a picnic blanket, a good book, and bask under a shady tree with views overlooking Sarasota Bay.
6. St. Armands Circle, Ringling Causeway Bridge and Lido Key - This major bridge crosses over Sarasota Bay, connecting you from Downtown Sarasota to St. Armands Circle, Lido Key and beyond. There is a walking/running path on either side of the bridge which offers some spectacular views of the area. St. Armands Circle boasts world-class restaurants and high-end shopping (a.k.a. "window shopping" for me!). Just a short walk and you'll find yourself at the beautiful Lido Key Beach, which offers powdery-white sand and clear waters.
7. Downtown Historic District - We don't often make it downtown, although always thank ourselves for making the effort when we do. Each corner is alive with art, culture, and passion. You can't help but stroll around with a smile on your face as you consume all of the colors, positive vibes, and quaint store fronts. Additionally, the cinema with the cheapest tickets in town is located here, so this is the place to go to catch that new flick you've been dying to see.
8. Sarasota Jungle Gardens - Are you an animal-lover? If so, than this is the place for you! You can hand-feed flamingos that elegantly stroll around the gardens. Unexpectedly, they don't sound as pretty as they look - they honk like pigs! Feeling bold? You might have the opportunity to hold a snake, lizard, baby alligator, or a bird. Some of the most colorful parrots and macaws I have ever seen reside here. The entry fee can add up if you have a large family or group of people, so utilize their great teacher and student discounts!
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| Sarasota Jungle Gardens - Captured by Maree's Mum |
9. Sarasota Bayfront and Bayfront Park - If you are heading downtown, to Lido Key, or to the Jungle Gardens, you must stop by this stunning location. We love to take a break and hang out here. Take a walk around the park, sit on a wooden swing and listen to the water peacefully lapping on the rocks, have a drink at O'Leary's Tiki Bar & Grill, and take a picture with your sweetheart in front of the "Unconditional Surrender" statue, also known as the "Kissing Statue". 😘
10. Ringling Museum of Art, Ringling Circus Museum, and the Ca'd'Zan - The Ringling Museum of the American Circus was the first to document the history of this form of entertainment. Sarasota was where the circus members stayed during the Winter months. Learn about the history of the Circus and explore the endless costumes and memorabilia. Nearby sits the grand Ca'd'Zan mansion. Take a tour of the inside, or simply wander around the outside to admire the intricate designs and size of this place. Insider secret: Greg proposed to me at this place!
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Did I say 10? Whoops! Here is a bonus:
11. Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium - Struck a rainy day? Not to fear, the aquarium is here! Mote Marine is a not-for-profit, marine research organization that helps to protect our oceans and conducts ongoing wildlife conservation and research programs. Meet the vast array of marine life, including huge sea turtles and manatees!
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| A Sarasota Sunset - Image Captured by Maree Richardson |
So, there you have it. The "inside scoop" to Sarasota. Whether you're here for one day, one week, or one year, I hope you enjoy your time exploring this inspirational place.
Have a great week!
Maree
