Things To Do
in Sarasota
Sarasota is a charming city located on the west coast of Florida known for its beautiful beaches and cultural attractions. The city is home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters to explore. Sarasota also boasts an abundance of outdoor activities, including water sports, golfing, and nature reserves.
With its warm climate and lively atmosphere, Sarasota is a popular destination for both tourists and residents alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along Siesta Key Beach, known for its soft, white sands. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a nearby beachfront café.
Spend your afternoon swimming in the clear waters or trying out some water sports like paddleboarding. Grab lunch at one of the beachside shacks offering fresh seafood.
Unwind with a stunning sunset view at Lido Beach. Dine at a local restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy the warm Florida evening.
Visit The Ringling, a museum housing a vast collection of art and circus memorabilia. Don't miss the beautiful gardens which make for a lovely morning stroll.
Head to the Sarasota Opera for a guided tour and learn about its rich history. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a café in the nearby historic district.
Catch a performance at the Sarasota Ballet or the Opera if available. Wrap up your day with dessert at a charming local bakery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with white sand and clear water
- Pleasant weather year-round, with mild winters and warm summers
- Rich arts and cultural scene, including theaters, galleries, and music festivals
- Access to outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and golfing
- Family-friendly environment with good schools and community events
- High cost of living compared to some other areas in Florida
- Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons
- Limited public transportation options
- Hurricane risks during the Atlantic hurricane season
- Potential for higher humidity levels in summer months
Best Activities in Sarasota
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing on the beautiful white sand beach.
Explore nature trails, go birdwatching, and take a scenic boat tour of the river.
Stroll through lush gardens and enjoy a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers.
Discover the city and its surroundings by going on a guided bicycle tour.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sarasota with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sarasota
Visit one of these nice places.
This park offers stunning views of Sarasota Bay and the city skyline, with ample photo opportunities of the waterfront and the iconic Unconditional Surrender statue.
The grounds of the Ringling Museum provide sweeping views of Sarasota Bay and the historic Ca' d'Zan mansion, offering countless photo opportunities for architecture and landscapes.
Known for its crystal-clear waters and powder-white sand, Siesta Key Beach provides picturesque views of the Gulf of Mexico and is an ideal spot for capturing sunset or beach photos.
Food in Sarasota
Sarasota Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly harvested from the nearby bay, Sarasota Bay Clams are a local delicacy often served steamed or in flavorful seafood chowder. Visit the local seafood markets or waterfront restaurants for the best preparations.
Must-Try!
A quintessential Florida dessert, Key Lime Pie is a must-try when visiting Sarasota. Tangy and refreshing, this pie can be found in many local bakeries and restaurants, with some offering unique variations using local ingredients.
Influenced by the Cuban community in Sarasota, the Cuban Sandwich is a delicious combination of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread. Look for local cafes and Cuban eateries for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sarasota better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. It's an excellent place to sample fresh fruits, homemade jams, and other local treats while soaking in Sarasota’s vibrant street food scene.
This charming area features outdoor dining and street food vendors offering a diverse range of cuisines, from seafood to gourmet snacks. It's a great spot to experience Sarasota's street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sarasota, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially in formal or professional settings.
Punctuality is highly valued in Sarasota, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.
Sarasota is known for its diverse community, so it is important to show respect for people from different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sarasota with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sarasota
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in the service industry in Sarasota, United States. It is customary to tip restaurant servers, bartenders, hotel staff, taxi drivers, and other service providers. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment for goods and services in Sarasota, United States is commonly done using credit or debit cards, as well as cash. Mobile payment apps such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely accepted. Contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular. It is important to note that some establishments may have a minimum spend requirement for card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sarasota.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Sarasota is during the spring (March to May) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. You can expect blooming flowers, art festivals, and outdoor events.
Summer (June to August) in Sarasota is hot and humid, but it's a great time for beach activities and water sports. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms and higher humidity during this season.
Fall (September to November) is another good time to visit Sarasota, with warm temperatures and fewer crowds. You can expect fall festivals, food events, and outdoor markets during this season.
Winter (December to February) is a popular time for visitors escaping colder climates. The weather is mild and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities, and there are holiday events and cultural performances to enjoy.
Sarasota at Night
Hiking in Sarasota
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A sprawling natural park featuring diverse ecosystems, walking trails, and scenic views of the Myakka River.
A wetland area with a variety of trails, perfect for hiking and birdwatching, offering stunning views of the landscape.
A park with miles of hiking trails through pine forests and along the shores of South Creek, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
A paved multi-use trail that spans from Sarasota to Venice, great for hiking, biking, and jogging amid beautiful scenery.
Offers scenic trails and beach access, perfect for a combination of hiking and enjoying the beach.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sarasota through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sarasota by plane.
The primary airport serving the Tampa Bay area, located about 50 miles northwest of Sarasota.
Located in Fort Myers, this airport is approximately 50 miles to the south of Sarasota.
Located north of St. Petersburg, about 60 miles from Sarasota, this airport serves the Tampa Bay area.
Situated about 130 miles northeast of Sarasota, this is the second-busiest airport in Florida.
The local airport for Sarasota, providing both domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Sarasota, making up about 80% of the population.
The second largest group, constituting around 10% of the population.
This group represents approximately 5% of Sarasota's population.
Asian residents account for around 2% of the population.
Includes individuals from multiple ethnic backgrounds, making up roughly 3% of the demographic.
The Soul of Sarasota
Discover the essence of Sarasota through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sarasota has a rich baseball history and is known for its spring training facilities. The city's teams and leagues are popular among locals and visitors.
With its numerous golf courses, Sarasota is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts, hosting tournaments and providing facilities for all skill levels.
Tennis is widely played in Sarasota, with numerous clubs and courts available, as well as annual tournaments attracting players from all over.
Given its coastal location, sailing is a favored sport, with many residents participating in local regattas and sailing clubs.
The beautiful beaches in Sarasota provide perfect courts for beach volleyball, making it a popular sport among both locals and tourists.
Sarasota is known for its bike-friendly paths and scenic routes, making cycling a popular activity for both recreation and fitness.
With access to the Gulf of Mexico, swimming is a beloved pastime for residents, whether in the ocean or local pools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sarasota.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Sarasota's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering plant-based dishes, including creative salads, hearty grain bowls, and flavorful vegan entrées.
For those seeking gluten-free options, Sarasota boasts several eateries with dedicated gluten-free menus or staff knowledgeable about accommodating gluten intolerances. From gluten-free pizzas to pasta dishes, there are numerous choices available.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sarasota with these cultural adventures.
