Ways to Social Distance in Sarasota County

Whether your idea of living responsibly is more than six feet away from strangers or so far off-grid another stranger isn’t even in sight, here are some sensible ways to get out of the house or hotel room for a fun time around Sarasota County.

Book a Room

Grab your family and loved ones for a stress-free getaway at a local hotel. Many of our reopened hotels are following new, stricter cleaning protocols, have added hand sanitizing stations and are encouraging safe social distancing practices in small spaces like elevators. The Sarasota Modern is a Marriott property with rooms featuring private porches, cabanas and even outdoor bathtubs, all overlooking a lavish pool area with not one, but three different pools to choose from. Escape Resort & Marina is the perfect way to plan a secluded tropical getaway with access to the private beaches of Casey Key and dock slips for boat owners who want to mix in a little aquatic exploration. For something simple, relaxing and away from home for a change, cash in on some of those travel points with EVEN Hotel Sarasota-Lakewood Ranch or Courtyard by Marriott Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch; or enjoy carefree living in Sarasota’s historic Amish/Mennonite community in Pinecraft at the Carlisle Inn.

Dine Curbside or To-Go

Give those homemade meals a rest and thrill your taste buds once again with a professionally prepared meal from of our reopened local restaurants. Many are still offering takeout and curbside to help customers avoid unnecessary crowds. Outdoor seating options are also available for a brief sit down and drink, dessert, dinner or all three! All of these options can be found at the following restaurants: Libby’s Neighborhood Brasserie, Mattison’s City Grille, Chianti Ristorante Italiano, Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi Grill, and Siesta Key Oyster Bar.

Get Out on the Water

Want to try something besides the popular outdoor activities like walking and jogging? Grab a rental at Nathan Benderson Park to traverse the 400-acre lake at this world-class rowing course and facility. NBP has something for all ability levels from kayaks to Stand-Up Paddleboards to Pontoon Pedal Boats. (*Pro Tip: when you’re done with your rental, check to see if the finish tower stairs are open for a quick walk to the top and amazing view of the area!)

Walk Through the Trees

Gorgeous Florida fauna can be a relaxing way to isolate, and one of the best "Old Florida" spots around is Sarasota Jungle Gardens. Get lost along the winding paths shaded by over 80 years of natural tree canopy while you stare in wonder at exotic birds, crocodiles and other animals at this charming attraction that's been delighting families for generations.

And while walking through a forest is a good way to avoid contact with other people, CLIMBING trees is even better! Take a trip to TreeUmph! Adventure Course for a unique excursion through 14 acres of bridges, rope swings and zip lines in a lush, exotic setting of natural pine and oak trees. Your only concern here will be heights!

Book a Private Tour

Explore Downtown Sarasota’s unique history of culture, romance and hauntings with Discover Sarasota Tours, now offering private concierge tours for groups of up to 10 people. Get picked up in style right at your local hotel or home for a half-day City Sightseeing Tour in the comfort of an air-conditioned trolley. Cruise by popular stops like The Ringling, Selby Gardens, Sarasota Jungle Gardens, St. Armands Circle and more. Regular tours have also added new safety guidelines, including cleaning and sanitizing of the trolley, temperatures taken for staff and guests, a mask requirement, and a booking limit of 50 percent capacity (about 20 seats).

Treat Yourself to a Massage

What could be more relaxing—and secluded—than a private, signature massage at The Westin? Let their staff of trained professionals help dissolve all your worries away for over an hour inside the private rooms of their spa and salon. To uphold elevated safety and cleanliness protocols, The Westin is no longer accepting online reservations, but recommend calling ahead to check availability by phone.