With its pleasant sunny weather, vibrant arts and culture scene, pristine white sand beaches, and abundance of recreational activities, it’s no surprise why Sarasota attracts countless visitors and new residents year after year.
Nestled along Florida’s scenic west coast, Sarasota boasts a distinct charm that sets it apart from other coastal communities in the Sunshine State. While it shares the sunshine and the sun-kissed beaches, the city has a diverse arts scene and a burgeoning culinary movement that’s simply unmatched anywhere else in the state.
The magic of Sarasota lies in its duality – unlike many coastal cities that offer a singular experience, Sarasota presents a fascinating interplay of contrasting elements. Places like St. Armands Circle and Siesta Key Village, for example, are perfect if you’re looking for a more laid-back seaside atmosphere, while top-rated fine dining establishments and world-class resorts flourish in downtown Sarasota if you’re seeking sophistication in a thriving cultural center.
Whether you’re looking forward to a well-deserved vacation, planning to relocate, or in the market for an investment property, Sarasota is guaranteed to exceed your expectations with its diverse offerings and perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and opportunity.
Here, we shine the spotlight on the Circus City so you can get a closer look at the lifestyle, the attractions, the activities, and all of the best things about living in Sarasota, FL.
Table of Content
- The Terrific Year-Round Climate
- Sarasota’s Extensive Array Of Outdoor Destinations
- Breathtaking Beaches
- St. Armands Circle’s Vibrant Shopping And Dining Venues
- Sarasota’s Exceptional Dining Scene
- Special Events And Festivals
- Sarasota’s Enticing Real Estate Options
- Find Your Dream Home In Sarasota Today With The Coughlin Group
THE TERRIFIC YEAR-ROUND CLIMATE
With over 250 sunny days a year and an average year-round temperature of 73°F, Sarasota experiences a subtropical climate that’s a dream for many.
Residents enjoy warm days and comfortable nights year-round, with refreshing ocean breezes tempering the summer heat. This translates to extended pool seasons and endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Winter brings mild temperatures, perfect for enjoying nature walks or exploring the vibrant city without the constraints of heavy clothing. While there’s a rainy season from May to November, it typically showers in the afternoons, leaving plenty of sunshine for exploration. This delightful climate allows new residents to embrace an active, outdoor lifestyle throughout the year.
SARASOTA’S EXTENSIVE ARRAY OF OUTDOOR DESTINATIONS
Sarasota’s prime location on Florida’s idyllic Gulf Coast creates endless opportunities to relax on sun-kissed white sand beaches while soaking in breathtaking views of magnificent sunsets and shimmering turquoise waters. Beyond its identity as a beach town, however, there are also picturesque parks and natural preserves offering a diverse array of recreational options.
Whether you seek tranquility on pristine beaches, exhilaration on sparkling waters, or exploration in lush landscapes, Sarasota offers a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Below are several outdoor destinations just outside your door when you’re living in Sarasota, FL.
Myakka River State Park offers a wide array of fun outdoor activities for all ages. Hikers can trek along miles of beautiful trails and take in breathtaking views from the Canopy Walkway. You can explore the park by airboat while gliding past alligators and wading birds in their natural habitat. Or, rent a bike and cruise along scenic routes, or embark on a horseback riding adventure for a truly unique experience.
If you enjoy fishing, there are terrific opportunities to cast a line in the Myakka River or one of the sparkling lakes. Love camping? Spend an evening or two under the stars by choosing from primitive sites for a complete immersion in nature, or opt for the comfort of cabins or campgrounds. The park even offers a Junior Ranger program, keeping younger explorers engaged while learning about the park’s ecology and history.
Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach
Ted Sperling Park offers an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts in Sarasota. Kayak or stand-up paddleboard through a network of mangrove tunnels, a hidden labyrinth teeming with life. Lush green mangroves create a shaded canopy overhead, while the shallow, clear waters reveal a vibrant underwater world. Fish dart amongst the roots, while fiddler crabs scuttle along the exposed branches. The tranquility of the tunnels is occasionally broken by the rustle of leaves or the splash of a jumping fish, creating a serene soundscape.
Explore at your own pace, following marked paths or venturing off the beaten track to discover hidden nooks. Be sure to check tide tables before your visit, as lower tides can make navigation challenging. Whether seeking a unique ecological experience or a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life, Ted Sperling Park’s mangrove tunnels offer an unforgettable adventure.
Avid bikers and biking enthusiasts living in Sarasota, FL can enjoy easy access to the scenic 12-mile Legacy Trail.
Traverse from Venice to Sarasota, pedaling beneath shady canopies and amidst spectacular views. Cruise past Oscar Scherer State Park, teeming with wildlife, or stop for a peaceful break at scenic overlooks. The paved trail is perfect for all skill levels, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely ride or a challenging workout. Start your journey at any point and explore as far as you desire, making this a versatile escape for Sarasota’s biking enthusiasts.
Birders flock to Oscar Scherer State Park for a chance to glimpse over 200 avian species. The park is a haven for the endangered Florida scrub jay, with dedicated management practices ensuring their continued presence.
Walk along the trails, keeping an eye out for these vibrant blue birds flitting amongst the scrubland. Listen for the calls of eagles soaring overhead, or watch as ospreys hunt from their lakeside perches. With a diverse range of habitats, Oscar Scherer offers a rewarding birdwatching experience for all skill levels.
BREATHTAKING BEACHES
Sarasota boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in the state. From the sugar-white sands of Siesta Key to the serene shores of Lido Beach, these coastal gems offer stunning vistas, crystal-clear waters, and a true taste of paradise for beach lovers.
Looking forward to spending a relaxing day at the beach? Check out some of these top-rated beaches around the area.
- Siesta Key Beach. Accessible via two bridges from the mainland, Siesta Key Beach stretches across eight miles of pristine coastline, renowned for its impeccably groomed, powder-soft white sands and vast expanse of crystalline waters. While the beach transforms into a lively party scene after sunset, during the day, it offers a family-friendly paradise with activities to cater to every visitor’s delight.
- Crescent Beach. Nestled on Siesta Key, just a 17-minute drive from Sarasota’s city center, Crescent Beach offers a serene escape with its powdery white sands, ample amenities, and breathtaking sunset views. While offering a slightly more secluded atmosphere than adjacent beaches, this gem still caters to water sports enthusiasts with opportunities for jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, and canoeing. At the same time, it remains a family-friendly haven where visitors can simply unwind, play frisbee or beach ball amidst the calm and beautiful sandy stretches.
- Lido Beach Park. Located just 15 minutes west of downtown Sarasota, Lido Beach Park on Lido Key beckons with its rich history and family-friendly allure. Once home to a famous casino from 1940 to 1969, this beloved beach now offers calm surf and a team of attentive lifeguards, making it a safe and fun beach for kids. Complemented by nearby shops and eateries, including a beachside café serving up delectable treats from hot dogs to fish tacos, Lido Beach Park invites you to bask in its sun-kissed shores and create lasting memories.
- Longboat Key Beach. Offering an escape from the crowds, Longboat Key Beach boasts ten miles of secluded, pristine shoreline with turquoise waters and immaculate white sands. Just 20 minutes west of Sarasota’s city center, this limited-access island paradise provides plenty of space for visitors to kick back, relax, and recharge amidst breathtaking, undisturbed views. However, due to its private nature, it’s essential to come prepared with your own beach gear, food, and drinks, as there are no nearby amenities like restaurants or shops.
- Indian Beach Park. Indian Beach Park, a petite one-acre oasis just ten minutes northwest of downtown Sarasota, beckons with its tranquil waters and serene ambiance. While lacking expansive sandy stretches, this urban retreat offers paved walking paths, inviting benches, and a front-row seat to the mesmerizing ebb and flow of the calm waters. For water sports enthusiasts, the park’s kayak and canoe launch provide a convenient starting point for aquatic adventures. Alternatively, it serves as a peaceful respite, a place to pause, breathe deeply, and bask in the soothing rhythms of nature.
ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE’S VIBRANT SHOPPING AND DINING VENUES
Experience the epitome of luxury and charm at Sarasota’s doorstep with St. Armands Circle, a renowned continental marketplace that seamlessly blends the past and present. Merely a block away from the pristine Lido Beach and the Gulf of Mexico, this tropical island haven invites visitors to explore its over 140 upscale boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and posh art galleries, all set in a captivating European-inspired open-air ambiance.
Envisioned by circus magnate John Ringling, who purchased the island in 1917, St. Armands Circle bears the imprint of his grand vision, evident in the design of the radiating streets and the Italian statuary from his personal collection. With a rich history dating back to 1893, when Frenchman Charles St. Amand first homesteaded the land, the Circle has evolved into a jewel of Sarasota, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors worldwide.
Whether you seek high fashion, home decor, gourmet delicacies, or candlelight feasts, St. Armands Circle promises a memorable visit. Immerse yourself in the vibrant special events calendar, from art festivals to family-friendly celebrations, showcasing the best of this iconic destination. With over 140 merchants committed to creating a rewarding experience, St. Armands Circle invites you to indulge in its treasures and make lasting memories.
SARASOTA’S EXCEPTIONAL DINING SCENE
Sarasota boasts a diverse array of dining destinations ranging from casual sidewalk cafes and craft breweries to elegant, fine dining establishments, and nearly everything in between.
Looking to give your taste buds a treat? Here are some top-rated Sarasota restaurants for you to check out.
Located in Sarasota’s historic Towles Court district, Indigenous has garnered acclaim as an inspirational and educational dining destination since its inception in 2011. Renowned for its commitment to sustainable seafood, local produce, and a better food system, this culinary gem offers a seasonally evolving menu of American cuisine crafted from peak ingredients sourced from artisans and farmers. The meticulously restored building provides a sophisticated yet cozy ambiance for savoring the flavors in its indoor and outdoor seating areas.
Shore transports you to a midcentury, al-fresco coastal haven with its creative recipes and local favorites served in an open-air dining space. From the first sip of their signature cocktail to the last bite of the delectable Key West shrimp and scallop risotto, Shore offers an unmatched dining experience filled with laughter, cool vibes, and delicious eats.
Perched above its namesake surf-chic store, this retro-inspired eatery delivers a diner’s dream ambiance modeled after Southern California’s midcentury beach cafes, inviting guests to lounge on the back porch or enjoy palm tree-lined views from the front.
Stepping into State Street is akin to entering a midcentury industrial-chic eatery, where a former defunct bakery has been masterfully transformed into an urban oasis. With distressed brickwork, elegant wallpapers, and original exposed rafters complemented by reclaimed lumber, iron, and concrete features, the restaurant seamlessly combines green building with urban sophistication.
Beyond the fresh, innovative, and downright delicious fare, State Street offers an unparalleled dining experience that has garnered accolades like “Best New Restaurant,” “Best Burger,” and “Best Cocktail” eight years in a row, solidifying its status as a downtown favorite from its inception.
Owen’s treats guests to an authentic Old Florida dining experience, with its cozy cottage nestled beneath a sprawling banyan tree and a nostalgic tire swing in the backyard.
This downtown Sarasota gem specializes in Southern seafood delicacies, with a menu featuring fresh bay catches blackened, grilled, or fried to perfection each day. Indulge in classic favorites like shrimp and grits, oyster po’ boys, and fried soft-shell crab BLTs, or savor the flavors of a traditional low country boil, all served in a laid-back, quintessentially Floridian ambiance.
SPECIAL EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
With a stellar lineup of exciting events and celebrations held every year, there’s plenty to look forward to when you’re living in Sarasota, FL.
Be sure to mark your calendar for these annual gems!
Downtown Sarasota Fine Art and Craft Fair (March)
Enjoy a dazzling display of art at the Downtown Sarasota Fine Art Fair! Now in its second season, this celebration of fine arts and crafts transforms downtown’s iconic Main Street into a dazzling open-air market pulsating with creativity.
Stroll through a stunning showcase of life-sized sculptures, breathtaking paintings, exquisite jewelry, and more. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted by some of the nation’s most talented artists. Engage with the creators, learning their stories and gaining a deeper appreciation for their artistry. Explore a craft and green market area brimming with unique finds and eco-friendly treasures.
Your patronage supports the Downtown Sarasota Alliance, fostering local businesses and artistic endeavors. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a cultural adventure and discover the magic of handcrafted beauty!
The Spring Fling Skim Jam takes place at Nokomis Beach, a haven for skimboarders on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
This three-day event promises a fun-filled weekend for skim enthusiasts of all levels. Participate in a free skim clinic, hone your skills at the Pro/Am competition, or simply enjoy the camaraderie. There will be signings with pro skimboarders, exciting raffles, and a family-friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate skimboarding, soak up the sun, and create unforgettable beach memories!
Now in its 19th year, Savor Sarasota is the city’s premier culinary event, transforming Sarasota County into a gastronomic playground for two weeks. Nearly 30 restaurants, from barrier islands to charming downtowns, offer specially priced prix-fixe menus for lunch and dinner.
This isn’t just a meal; it’s a chance to explore the diverse flavors Sarasota has to offer, from international delights to fresh, local seafood. With chef-curated menus and potential upgrades like wine pairings, you can discover your new favorite dish or restaurant at a fraction of the cost. So grab your friends and prep your palates, because Savor Sarasota is a taste bud adventure you won’t want to miss!
Sarasota Chalk Festival (November)
Immerse yourself in living art at the Sarasota Chalk Festival! Witness the magic unfold as world-renowned pavement artists transform ordinary streets into a vibrant outdoor museum. This annual event boasts the largest gathering of 3D pavement artists, working their magic with chalk on massive canvases.
The festival invites visitors to be part of the art. Step into the mind-bending illusions and capture unforgettable photos. Aspiring artists can even join the fun, creating their own works alongside the pros. This inclusive event welcomes everyone, from seasoned creators to curious beginners.
Prepare to be dazzled by intricate street art, live performances, delicious food trucks, and interactive art zones perfect for all ages. With its vibrant atmosphere and focus on community spirit, the Sarasota Chalk Festival is an award-winning event you won’t want to miss.
SARASOTA’S ENTICING REAL ESTATE OPTIONS
Sarasota offers a diverse range of real estate options to suit various lifestyles and budgets.
For those seeking a luxurious waterfront living experience, the keys of Siesta, Lido, and Longboat boast stunning beachfront properties, from contemporary condominiums to sprawling estates. Downtown Sarasota caters to urban dwellers with its vibrant mix of historic bungalows, modern townhomes, and high-rise condos, providing easy access to cultural attractions and dining hotspots. Families can explore the suburbs of Lakewood Ranch, Palmer Ranch, and University Park, where spacious single-family homes with excellent school districts abound. Golf enthusiasts will find their haven in communities like Cypress Wood, Laurel Oak, and Bent Tree, offering beautifully maintained courses and amenity-rich living.
Whether you’re seeking a coastal retreat, an urban oasis, or a family-friendly neighborhood, Sarasota’s real estate market has something to offer for every discerning buyer.
FIND YOUR DREAM HOME IN SARASOTA TODAY WITH THE COUGHLIN GROUP
This is just a sneak peek of what it’s like when you’re living in Sarasota, FL!
If you’re interested in browsing the finest luxury homes in Sarasota, get in touch with our elite team of Realtors from The Coughlin Group today! Call us at 941.323.3736 or send us an email.