2018

Sarasota County is a beautiful place, ripe with things to enjoy such as arts and culture, fine restaurants and romantic beaches. With a mix of residents from all over the country and the world, Sarasota County is a open and diverse atmosphere. It is an excellent place for the LGBT traveler to experience the beauty of an arts destination, chill vibe of community boasting some of the best beaches in the world, and much more. 

Florida agriculture has developed its niche by bringing early season blueberries to market. Learn about where you can purchase and pick blueberries in the area.

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.

I'm at marks the end of my 21-day clean eating challenge. I gave up processed food, caffeine, alcohol and sugar which is hard when there are so many great places to eat and grab a drink in Sarasota County.  Luckily for me, I didn't have to look far to find places where I could honor my challenge and still get a healthy bite to eat without sacrificing flavor.  Here are a couple of my go-to favorites:

Whether you want to mingle with the locals and chit chat the day away or keep to yourself and take a break from banter after the family-filled holidays, there’s a great way to spend a day – or days - alone in Sarasota.

Sometimes we travel alone, be it for work or for fun. Maybe the boss sent you out for a conference, maybe it’s research, maybe you need time to think and get away. For whatever reason, traveling alone is always different than traveling with others because you get to do whatever you want to do.

Volunteering on vacation can be a rewarding and enriching experience, especially to returning visitors. Learn about several ways to be involved.

There’s no better way to enjoy the beauty of the Florida sun than by volunteering in picturesque Sarasota. For many locals, volunteerism is as equally enjoyable as walking along the white sands of Siesta Key or Long Boat Key beaches at sunset. Volunteering in Sarasota is a healthy and engaging lifestyle that can be uniquely fitted into anyone’s vacation plans.

Learn how ‘Citizen Democracy’ is working, right here in Sarasota.

Have you ever seen the big blue sign at Island Park that says “Welcome to the Sarasota Bayfront” with two hands superimposed with a map, referencing something about Sarasota’s “Sister Cities”? And have you ever wondered what that was all about? 

Turns out it’s something very special.

You said yes and now is the time to plan your dream wedding in Sarasota

Congratulations! Planning a wedding is an exciting time and you have a lot of decisions to make.  Visit Sarasota County is here to help you along the way as you prepare for your special day.

The sunset is part of the reason you decided to visit Sarasota County. So check out our guide for the best ways to enjoy it.

The sunset puts on a pretty good show most nights here in Sarasota County. And while you can always watch it for free from one of our local beaches, there are lots of other ways to take in the setting sun. From striking your best warrior pose to sipping cocktails at a waterfront watering hole, we’ve rounded up all kinds of activities you can partake in to mark that magical time when day turns into night.