Reasons to Retire in Sarasota

The Sarasota area continues to top the U.S News and World Report Best Places to Retire category. With accolades championing our local amenities, like our beaches, arts and area nonprofits, it’s no wonder Sarasota County is an ideal place to settle down and enjoy the golden years.

Golf and Country Clubs

Our year-round warm temperatures and sunny days make Sarasota the ideal spot to enjoy our myriad of golf and country clubs. If hitting the links is what you’re after, consider The Concession Golf Club, home to the 2021 PGA World Championship - Mexico Championship, which was relocated from Mexico to Florida. We are positively overflowing with golf communities from The Founders Golf Club to Laurel Oak Country Club. These communities offer breath-taking homes right on the course, for your ease and love of the game.

Perhaps you’re less of a golfer, and more of a mariner. Our yacht clubs offer access to convenient boat storage, and close proximity to the intercostal waterway and Gulf of Mexico. The Bird Key Yacht Club has an ideal location, and fantastic chef for dining options after a day on the water with all of your friends.

The Water

Let’s be honest, you’ve probably considered your move to Sarasota because of one main thing: our proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. There are so many options to keep you active on the water. We love to keep it simple by combing the beach with a shell bag in hand to hold all of your beautiful and unique beach finds. Don’t forget to bring your mask and snorkel for a quick dip to cool down on our sunny shores. Perhaps you're interested in taking up a new hobby, check out the Sarasota Sailing Squadron for sailing lessons - a great way to utilize Sarasota Bay and stay out on the water all day long.

The Activities

In addition to golf and water fun, there is no shortage of additional leisure in town. We recommend taking a walk over and under the Ringling Bridge for panoramic water views. Sarasota is also home to miles of safe bicycling paths. Take the Legacy Trail from Palmer Ranch to Venice, and soon all the way to Downtown Sarasota, or ride along the beach from the Ringling Bridge to the tippy top of Longboat Key.

The Arts

With museums, galleries, and performing arts venues dotted throughout the town, it’s no wonder why Sarasota is lovingly referred to as Florida’s Cultural Coast. Our performing arts venues include the Sarasota Opera, the Sarasota Orchestra, The Asolo Repertory Theatre, and Florida Studio Theatre. The list goes on and on with greats like the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and the Urbanite theatre, and we have still barely scratched the surface.

In terms of visual arts, our community’s dedication to supporting and celebrating the arts is unparalleled. Home to the Ringling College of Art and Design, we believe in a strong educational foundation for the arts in Sarasota. Additionally, our most impressive collection is at The Ringling, home to over 28,000 works that represent western and non-western regions ranging from ancient periods spanning all the way to the twenty-first century. For a glimpse at contemporary art, the Sarasota Art Museum houses an impressive collection reflective of our time.

Non-Profits

The importance of giving back is a core tenet of the Sarasota community. We boast 4,000 nonprofits throughout the county, many of which offer excellent opportunities for volunteering. If you’re interested in supporting family based charities, consider The Boys and Girls Club of Sarasota and Desoto Counties. If you would like a way to bond with other retirees, in which case we love the Senior Friendship Center for both volunteer and membership opportunities.