June

From sea to shore, the opportunities to explore the great outdoors are abundant in Sarasota County.

Every season is the perfect season to get outside and enjoy the weather – thanks to Florida's year-round sunshine and temperate climate. The balmy breezes that waft in from the bayside, the estuaries that sparkle in the sunshine, the untamed wilderness of the wetlands and pinelands.

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

"No shirt, no shoes, Nokomis!"

If weather is hurting your planned Sarasota County vacation, escape the dangers of cabin fever with indoor family fun

"What else can we do besides the beach?"

Your basecamp for eco-adventures and starry nights in South Sarasota County starts here. 

Adventure awaits beyond the shoreline. Find your wild on an overnight nature escape in some of our less-traveled, less-developed, lesser-known areas. 

A trek through the mangrove tunnels of Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach Nature Park gives kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders unique routes for exploring a unique ecosystem

"Aaah! I almost just bit it! I was dodging that branch and almost fell right off!" Cue incessant giggling, leading to further instability. I wish I could say it was one of my kids who claimed this prime example of agility and grace, but, alas, it was I.

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.

The new Englewood Beach Waterfest celebrates the community's coastal connections

Englewood has long drawn folks interested in fishing, boating, and water recreation opportunities. A new festival, Englewood Beach Waterfest, will celebrate the community's liquid assets with activities ranging from educational exhibits to powerboat racing.

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. 

Longboat Key is the quiet neighbor to the hustle and bustle of Lido Key and St. Armand’s Circle. But don’t ignore it - there are plenty of things to be done in this beautiful 10-mile-long  barrier island along the Gulf.