2021

Consistently named in TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice™ top beaches year after year, come see why this island oasis has remained at the top of the list since 2015.

Be sure to tiki it up before or after the beach with a piña colada (or two)

Tiki bars, often in their own kitschy ways, are reminiscent of exotic paradises. It should come as no surprise then, that Sarasota, an exotic paradise in itself, is scattered with them. 

Here are five places away from the beach in Sarasota County with a little bit for the parents, a little bit for the children, and a whole lot of happy for everyone.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 

For Adults

Longboat Key provides no shortage of things to do and places to explore, and we have just a few suggestions to get you started.

Longboat Key sits at the northernmost part of Sarasota County, and like all the Florida Keys, it has a unique flavor all its own.  It is known for its beautiful, secluded beaches and pristine resorts, but there are certainly a bounty of public places for all to explore and other attractions and activities in this beautiful key.  You can begin and an end a several relaxing days in Longboat Key without repeating your itinerary or to-do list.

Enjoy for out-of-the-box romance ideas for visitors in Sarasota County.

Spring comes early in Florida. Even in February a bright yellow sun in the clear blue sky warms orange groves glistening with fruit. Honeybees buzz about pollinating the orange blossoms. Birds flit from tree to tree, gathering twigs for their nests.

Valentine's Day is almost here, and with inspiration from the birds and bees, we've created four "romantic dates" for you – all with an authentic Florida twist.

Sarasota County is well-known as the cradle of golf and a beach-goers paradise. For those who would rather swing a racquet than a club, there are plenty of options for different levels of dedication to the sport.

Perfect your backhand and ace your tennis game in Sarasota County. A variety of venues offer courts for players from novices to experts.

Sarasota County’s treasure troves include striking natural beauty, magnificent arts, and not to be forgotten, a rich cultural heritage. Learn more about that heritage by visiting these seven area attractions.

Not only does Sarasota County have a wealth of natural beauty, it’s also home to a rich history. So, if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, or you’re just a history buff, we’ve put together a list of the seven must-see historical destinations in Sarasota County.

Sand and saltwater free, bring your kids to these splash areas and playgrounds to give them a day filled with refreshing fun and laughter.

Simmer down your summer and head to one of our family-friendly parks with water features for your kids—without the entrance fee of waterparks and aquatic facilities. Splash pads are a great way to keep your little ones refreshed and entertained during the hot summer months.

Those in the know will not always wish to share their secret beach spots so liberally — lest they become common and crowded — but we’ll let you in on a few of Manasota Key’s secrets anyway.

Manasota Key is a beautiful beach and eco destination south of Sarasota and Venice, where you can explore rarely beautiful and tucked away sections of beach and eco-habitat without the hassles of a well-hyped beach; no overcrowding, difficulty parking, and not even any of the occasionally long waits typical of busier beaches’ diners/bars for your po’ boy sandwiches and margaritas.