Beaches & Parks

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In town for an Atlanta Braves spring training game or another event at CoolToday Park? You’ll want to make time to visit Sarasota’s famous beaches during your stay.

When you’re looking for some sun and surf after an exciting spring training game, here’s how to maximize your afternoon by cruising straight to one of Sarasota County's six keys from CoolToday Park in North Port.

2023
June

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Nestled along the Gulf Coast of Florida, southwest of Orlando, south of Tampa and north of Naples, Sarasota County boasts 40 miles of coastline and eight barrier islands. There are numerous beaches and state parks, two Audubon societies, the Legacy Trail, a world-renowned rowing facility, historic archeological sites and numerous attractions that showcase wildlife, nature and opportunities for fun.

2020
July

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If mom-and-pop beach bungalows are more your style, settle in to the quieter side of Sarasota County and embrace our beaches at these coastal lodgings

The call of a four star resort is a strong one, but sometimes you can get lost in the shuffle. With big crowds and busy amenities you may find it hard to find some quiet time to reconnect and refresh.

These smaller hotels and motels offer a more intimate and sometimes affordable stay in our beautiful destination and are all within walking distance from our main attraction: the beach!

2020
July

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Find the best ingredients for the grill from the best specialty markets in town

It’s summertime in Sarasota, and instead of trying to beat the heat, we recommend you embrace it by setting up the grill, inviting your friends over and having the perfect great American BBQ. We’ve assembled a list of top spots to enhance your grilling game in Sarasota complete with prime meats, savory sausages and local seafood.

2020
May

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Sarasota County’s barrier islands offer a diverse landscape of beaches and experiences to try along the Gulf of Mexico

With nearly 40 miles of shoreline, Sarasota County is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, each with its own unique characteristics. Depending on what you want to do—from sandcastles to surfing to shopping and more—you will want to choose your beach wisely. Here’s a list of local beach “awards” to help give you an idea of which one is the right choice for your vacation.  

2023
June

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Learn about Palmer's extraordinary agricultural innovations, her commitment to horticultural science and livestock-raising methods, and her savvy business acumen as foundational to the development of the Sarasota we know today

When the millionaire matron of Chicago high society, Bertha Palmer, arrived in Sarasota in 1910, she encountered a mosquito-infested, boggy marshland that most assumed was uninhabitable. What the savvy businesswoman saw, however, was a tropical paradise with potential to become lucrative land for farming, ranching and leisure.

2020
December