A Weekend Well Spent on Lido Key

Connected to the mainland by the famous John Ringling Causeway Bridge, Lido Key encompasses shopping/dining mecca St. Armands Circle, white-sand beaches, enchanting mangrove tunnels, recreation parks, gorgeous real estate and one of the best views of downtown. This weekend itinerary removes any question of "where should we go?" and "what should we do?" during your stay in Lido Key.

Where to Stay on Lido Key

Depending on where you're coming from and how long you have to stay, it's a great idea to get the most out of your visit by booking a stay at a Lido Key hotel or resort. Lodging on the island removes the trouble of finding parking and provides a haven to return to wash up and change after a salty day at the beach.

The accommodations on Lido are as magical as you might expect, with resort-style swimming pools overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, private beach loungers, cabanas, pool bars, restaurants and concierges to help book excursions or reservations. 

A couple of standouts are Lido Beach Resort and Cirque St. Armands Beachside.

Beach & Outdoor Adventures

Lido Key Public Beach & Pavilion

Don't waste a moment. Change into a swimsuit, grab the SPF and head out to the beach ASAP. At the main public beach, you'll find lifeguards and most of the beachside amenities, including outdoor showers, bathrooms, picnic tables, water fountains and a concession stand for bites and refreshments at the Lido Beach Pavilion. The local favorite at the pavilion is the Florida lobster roll. Pair it with a refreshing iced tea and head back to the white sands to enjoy lunch by the sea.

Spend the day soaking up the Vitamin D, floating in the Gulf, playing beach games and walking the shoreline for beautiful seashells.

Ted Sperling Park 

If sunbathing's got you restless—and the fam is eager for a bit of activity and adventure—make your way just a little further south of Lido Public Beach to South Lido Beach, also known as Ted Sperling Park. Aside from more beaches to explore here, there’s also an area to rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to discover the lush, tropical mangrove tunnels. It's a thrilling opportunity to spot fish, crabs, exotic birds, and possibly even dolphins, rays, turtles and manatees.The overgrown mangrove canopies provide a scenic backdrop for photos and cooler shade from the sun. You can rent your kayak or SUP, and evem take a tour, via local companies: Kayaking SRQ Tours & Rentals and SURFitUSA.

Ken Thompson Park

If you make your way to Ken Thompson Park, the kids can play on the playground or check out all the marine vessels as they launch. There’s also a scenic mangrove boardwalk and fishing pier for you to cast out that line.

The shoreline from the park is a standout spot to take in the downtown Sarasota skyline and catch a Gulf Coast sunset. Many come here to snap beautiful shots of the cityscape over Sarasota Bay.

New Pass Grill & Bait Shop

Looking for some good ol' fashioned fishing? The New Pass Bait Shop can outfit you with poles, lures, gear, bait and refreshments—including one of the best burgers in town.

Cast a line right from their shore or dock if you’d like, or head just down the road through City Island to Ken Thompson Park to set up a more loungey fishing spot. 

Shopping & Dining

St. Armands Circle

After a full day of sun and salt, wash off and get dressed for the evening's festivities. With many restaurants to choose from, and even more boutiques and shops to check out, you could easily spend the rest of your day and night eating and shopping your way around St. Armands Circle. The sophisticated retail village with a distinct European flair offers loads of alfresco dining and chances to find new clothing, jewelry, art, decor, souvenirs, gifts and more. 

Choosing where to eat may be the hardest part of your day, but you truly can't go wrong with whatever restaurant on the Circle you choose. Some local standouts include Columbia Restaurant, Cha Cha Coconuts, Crab & Fin, Café on St. Armands and Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar.

The Old Salty Dog 

After reeling a few in and catching the sunset, head back towards the entrance of City Island for some Floribbean fun at The Old Salty Dog. It’s one of the best waterfront views in the area, where you and your crew can grab a seat on the docks for some frozen cocktails and fresh-caught Florida seafood. Watch the boats come in and out as the day fades to night.