Beaches & Parks

Dine-in at these beachside bars and waterfront eateries, or, don't miss a beat of the beach—take it to-go and hurry back to picnic under your umbrella

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. 

Know where to park your car for the day and ways to get around Sarasota's most sought-after beach parks and barrier islands.

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!

An avian lover's paradise, spot native Florida birds year-round—from Gulf beach shores to mangrove flatland and brackish estuaries

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.

We've got your weekend plans covered. Refill the happy tank with a fun-fueled weekend in Sarasota County.

Everyone needs a little weekend getaway now and again. Ditch the errands and chores and unwind with your toes in the water and face to the sun. Or maybe you need a little thrill and excitement to escape the mundane and shake up the status quo! Sarasota County's got that, too. If you have a Saturday-Sunday to spare and need a change of scenery, why not make that scenery somewhere that's worthy of a wallpaper change AND has endless things to do?

Making the trip to Siesta Key for the Siesta Key Crystal Classic? We've got the perfect long weekend itinerary sculpted for you. 

A November visit to Siesta Key isn't complete without the chance to witness the sand art mastery of the annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival.

A weekend itinerary on one of Sarasota's most varied barrier islands: 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, an aquarium full of native marine life, recreation parks, gorgeous real estate and one of the best views of downtown. This weekend itinerary takes any question out of "where should we go?" and "what should we do?" for your stay in Lido Key.