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When you need to be alone in Sarasota nature, here are parks and beaches where you are least likely to run into strangers and most likely to have some breathing room
A walk in the park can clear your head, get your heart pumping, and help connect you to your natural surroundings. It’s a peaceful and picturesque way to temporarily escape the real world, and there are lots of parks and preserves in Sarasota County where you can get away from it all (at least for a while).
Hunting for shells on Florida's endless beaches is among the unique pleasures visitors and locals alike enjoy year-round. Sarasota County is known for its beautiful beaches filled with a variety of nature’s treasures. Ask any shelling enthusiast and they’ll swear on a stack of sand dollars that there’s nothing more relaxing and enjoyable as the hunt for a perfect shell.
Whether you think sharks are misunderstood predators or total undersea villains thanks to movies like Jaws, there’s no denying that they’re fascinating aquatic creatures. In fact, you might have a son or daughter who’s totally obsessed with the toothy fish, in that classic way kids have of forming full-throttle passions.
Any time of year, it’s easy to escape the hustle and bustle in Sarasota County. Parks, preserves and trails invite you to explore gorgeous natural landscapes – and feel miles away from it all as you do. Here are some of our favorites.
Defrost those winter muscles with a little vernal sunshine—springtime is approaching and the mile markers are calling. So mark some OOO on the calendar, jump in the car and hit the wide-open road.
More time spent outside equals more self-care, more quality conversations, more insightful thinking, more wildlife spotting, more quality hangs and laughs with loved ones—without distracting games or the urge to scroll on social media.
Whether flying solo, with your significant other or traveling with the whole family in tow, you may want to carve out precious time in the day to unplug, unwind and relax.
Hungry and hankering for a refuel on a long beach day? Take a quick break from the saltwater to quench your thirst and seek some shade from the sun—these casual beachfront jaunts offer a mid-day reprieve just steps from the sand. Or if you can't stand to be away from your beach chair long and just need a quick refreshment, opt for takeout and enjoy a refreshment with your toes in the tides.
Whether you're road-tripping into town or flying in and renting a car, finding a spot to park at the beach during busy times can prove challenging.
Here are local tips for getting to and parking at Sarasota County's public beaches to ensure you get the most out of your day in the sun and sand!
Birdwatching is among one of the most peaceful, meditative and gratifying activities you can enjoy in Sarasota County. And while winter is largely birding "season"—as thousands of migratory birds make their way south to escape the northern chill—birdwatching is a fantastic year-round hobby to partake in thanks to our year-round sunshine, subtropical climate and ecological diversity.
