Curator’s statement
I’ve been coming to Sarasota for years—my parents live here—and it’s been so fun to watch the area evolve. Over the past seven years, the food, hotels, and beach scene have totally leveled up, and there’s still so much newness popping up all the time. Here are the places I love, the ones I keep going back to, and a few that are on my personal list to try next.
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Where to stay in Sarasota
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Things to do in Sarasota
Siesta Key Beach: Famous white sand. ~30 min from downtown.
Lido Beach: Closer to downtown, less crowded, great swimming. At this point, we usually drive here, and you can get food and drinks from the Lido Beach Resort and Tiki Bar, can make it feel like a vacation. You can take the Sarasota Trolley to the beach and back or park in the parking lot next to the Lido Beach Resort.
Longboat Key Beaches: Quiet, upscale, perfect for long walks.
St. Armands Circle: Shopping, cafés, strolling, people-watching.
The Ringling Museum
Boat rentals/kayaking
Places to eat & drink in Sarasota
Owen's Fish Camp
1592 Wood-Fired Kitchen: Mediterranean, your go-to. Stylish, wood-fired, great cocktails.
Selva Grill-Peruvian: Trendy ceviche-focused, great for date night.
Owen’s Fish Camp: Southern Seafood-Iconic, live music, casual outdoor seating.
O’Leary’s Tiki Bar: Casual, right on the water—LOVE THIS (this is right next to where we got engaged). Great vibes.
Need to know
Surrounding areas of Siesta Key, Longboat Key, and Anna Maria Island are great to visit!
Travel Advisor
Jourdan Tobias
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Sarasota page.