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Editorial
Learn about the Florida wildlife that exists in the Sarasota area and the best places to see them in their natural habitats. Sarasota is a wildlife lover’s paradise. Dreaming of dolphins? Amazed by alligators? Enamored by raptors? The area’s beaches, lakes, rivers and forests are filled with iconic Florida wildlife...
Editorial
A hidden haven for wild bird species awaits on Sarasota’s City Island. Save Our Seabirds offers an unforgettable experience for families, bird lovers and curious travelers alike. Wander the shaded Bird Walk, where parrots chatter and dance for fun, sandhill cranes lift their booming calls into the air and owls...
Editorial
Sarasota and Manatee Counties have a wealth of natural, beautiful resources that harbor authentic memorable experiences. Go off the beaten path with Ecko Tours. Attention nature enthusiasts — both novice and experienced. If you have ever visited a destination, appreciated its wild and wonderful wilderness, but wanted to learn more...
Editorial
Delve into the world of nature, where ecological sanctity meets responsible recreation. Before we dive in, let's clear up some confusion. Reserves and Preserves? Are they the same thing? Not quite — but they are often used interchangeably! Reserves serve as vital wildlife sanctuaries, minimizing human intrusion to protect native...
Editorial
Beyond Sarasota County's beautiful beaches, shopping, dining and cultural amenities there is something else to make your visit special. Get a glimpse of Florida's "natural" side and its authentic beauty in our state parks. Sarasota County offers more than just its beaches, dining and shopping locations. In fact, the county...
Editorial
Sarasota County is home to a lot of ecosystems and habitats. Learn about the different parks that feature some family-friendly fun no matter what season! Venice is a beautiful seaside town on the Florida Gulf Coast. Experience natural Florida habitats such as scrubby and pine flatwoods, mangrove islands, and estuarine...
Editorial
Get your daily steps in—starting at these scenic trailheads around Sarasota County! Lace up your sneaks and fill up your water bottle for some fresh air and cardio with these nine great day hikes. Each park or preserve showcases the bounty of Florida flora and fauna Sarasota County has to...
Editorial
If you're hoping to catch a glimpse of Florida’s beloved gentle giants, Sarasota County is one of the best places to do it. These slow-moving, plant-munching marine mammals (often called “sea cows”) thrive in the warm, shallow waters of Florida's Gulf Coast. Whether you're kayaking through mangroves or exploring our...
Editorial
With over 35 miles of beaches and six islands to choose from, picking the perfect kind of paradise in Sarasota can seem daunting. The sand, wildlife, and scenery along our coastline can change with just a short walk in any direction; and depending on the weather, a storm could become...
Editorial
Trade screen time for sea breezes, quiet trails and moments that move at nature’s pace. Since the advent of smartphones and portable tablets, some days it feels downright impossible to escape the demands of voicemail, text and email notifications buzzing in our pockets. From television to TikTok, the modern world...