March

Siesta Key beach, ranked the no. 1 beach in America by TripAdvisor users has completed its renovations. Learn more about the new upgrades.

The sugary, white quartz sand and the Gulf Coast waters that stretch all along Siesta Key are reason enough to visit the Siesta Key public beach when vacationing in Sarasota County, Florida.

The Gulf Beach Resort Motel has been on Lido Key since the 1950s, making it the oldest hotel on the island. Learn more about the resort in our video!

You don't want to miss these natural wonder of Sarasota County

The 66-acre-grounds of The Ringling is itself an exhibit. The grounds feature the largest collection of Banyan trees in Florida, as well as a variety of other exotic trees. Sprawled throughout the grounds are a number of gardens as well, including the Mable Ringling's Rose Garden.

Sarasota's vibrant circus history springs to life at The Ringling, the official State Art Museum of Florida. 

The Ringling is not only home to the decadent and historic art collection of Ringling Circus founder John Ringling and his wife, Mable, but also a touchstone for delving deep into the captivating world of the circus. 

A visit to unassuming Nokomis proves it's the ideal place to venture in search of fresh fish and outdoor adventures without the crowds of the adjacent cities

"No shirt, no shoes, Nokomis!"

Have fun with food at these local classes and demonstrations.

A great way to get to know a place is through its food. And Sarasota has all kinds of delicious delicacies to explore, from fresh seafood straight out of the Gulf of Mexico to Amish-made peanut butter pies.

To take your tasting experience to the next level, sign up for one of the cooking classes or demonstrations offered at many restaurants and other spots in the area. You’ll not only get to sample local eats but also learn some tips and techniques to take the flavors home with you.

Try these fresh and local date-night dinners in the city of Sarasota

For my date nights, I'm always looking for an intimate place that not only has amazing food, but food that I can't cook at home. And when visiting somewhere, it's always nice to support local business and try local fare; the spirit of the region shines through the food and the people who prepare it with knowledge and love. Sarasota boasts many amazing restaurants that fulfil this criteria.

Looking for something special to plan a trip around? Consider the one-two combination of Sarasota County's Gulf Coast beaches and one of these great events this spring.

Sometimes you need a reason to take a vacation in the spring. It's that not-quite-yet-summertime-but-beautiful-weather sensation. The winter holidays are long gone, and there's been some long hours put into the office. The compromise: a long weekend centered around an fun event. It's a perfect choice that's just enough to tie you over until a longer summer vacation.

Choose your adventure in this laid-back coastal community

Ever wonder what it might have been like to vacation in Florida in decades past? Then you'll want to head to Englewood, a place that oozes Old Florida, small-town charm. You won't find lots of Med Rev mega-mansions and sprawling strip malls here. Instead, you can stroll a compact, historic downtown and enjoy the community's well-preserved natural side.

Here are three ways to get out and explore Englewood, whether you're into retail therapy, wildlife spotting, or spending time in the surf.