12 things to do in Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota is one of the most beautiful vacation destinations on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The beaches are award winning, a tough feat in a state with many great options. Siesta Key beach, with its’ powdery fine 99% quartz sand, even won the International Sand Contest in 1987. Besides white sandy beaches, the Sarasota area is known for its’ many beautiful parks and gardens. History buffs will be interested to learn that the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey’s winter home is located here and open for tours.

Lots of great restaurants and attractions to enjoy before/after digging your toes into the soft sugar sand. As I lived in Tampa Bay for several years, I had the opportunity top plan regular daytrips to this beautiful Gulf Coast city. Check out my guide to the best attractions including well known favorites like Siesta as well as hidden gems.

1. Spend the day soaking up nature at Myakka River State Park

Besides the beaches, a trip to Myakka River State Park should definitely be a top priority during your time here. This gorgeous park is one of Florida’s oldest and largest. There are many amenities here including miles of hiking & biking trails, a canopy walkway, boat rides, and a scenic driving loop. Most of the time, the park is much more peaceful than the tourist laden beaches. I always plan a nature walk at Myakka anytime I am in the area. It’s one of my favorite parks in all of Florida. Love the scenery, the bike loop, and the ample gator sightings!

Myakka is the perfect place to spend a quiet day enjoying nature, even more so following a tiresome day at a crowded beach. Along with enjoying the native flora and fauna of Florida, you may catch a glimpse of a gator or 2. Other small wildlife like armadillos and gopher tortoises frequently make appearances. This park also happens to be one of the best birdwatching destinations on the Gulf. Grab your binoculars and enjoy a quiet stroll over lush wetlands via Birdwalk. Both boat and tram rides available for an extra fee.

2. Dig your toes into the soft white sand of Siesta Key Beach

Some of the softest whitest sand in Florida you’ll ever step foot on is found at Siesta Key. I actually prefer Siesta to Clearwater. Tourism has been growing by the year, and thus, long gone are the days when you can enjoy a quiet day at the beach mostly to yourself. This is even more so the case during the busy “snowbird” winter season. I hear more and more people that I know personally (mainly from the Midwest) vacationing here every year. Fortunately, the beach is fairly wide, so there is still ample room for everyone.

Whether you prefer sunbathing or swimming, playing sports or reading a book, long walks or collecting shells, this beach basically offers it all. If you are looking to amp up the excitement a bit, consider embarking on a parasailing adventure.

3. Hunt for shark teeth at Caspersen Beach

One of the best souvenirs you can take home will not cost you a dime. At Caspersen Beach, you can hunt for million+ year old prehistoric shark teeth. Caspersen is located in nearby Venice, which claims the title of “shark tooth capital of the world.” Around low tide, many shark teeth fossils can be found, some of which are 20 million years old! Some people choose to use a special shifter which supposedly makes the fossils easier to find.

Even if you leave with nothing but a great view, this pretty beach is worth a look. The scenery is quite gorgeous compared to other Sarasota area beaches, making it a prime photo spot.

4. Take a stroll around Siesta Key village

Siesta Key Village is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of joe before your beach adventure. Many local mom and pop businesses line this open-air shopping district. The area has a nice beachy vibe with colorful businesses and tropical decor everywhere you look. Mojo Risin’ is an eclectic local coffee shop with a great patio. Take a seat, and enjoy the warm tropical breeze with a delicious cup of coffee in hand.

They also serve delicious smoothie bowls and fresh homemade pastries. Lots of healthy stuff on the menu here compared to other options in town. The vegan lavender muffin and cinnamon roll are treats worthing splurging your calories on. Bonjour French cafe is a wonderful local choice for lunch. Treat yourself to a decadent crepe or a croissant sandwich. They have a lovely little patio which is perfect for people watching.

5. Dinner at Columbia restaurant

Columbia, Florida’s oldest restaurant, originally opened its’ door in Tampa’s historic Ybor City back in 1905. Today, the largest Spanish restaurant in the world has numerous locations throughout Florida including one in Sarasota’s charming St. Armands Circle, a lovely open-air shopping district.

This restaurant really offers it all with exquisite food, ambiance, and service. The decor is just gorgeous. You will find lots of great Cuban dishes to try on the menu here, including any of the Paella dishes. Do start your meal off on a high note with a bowl of Cuban black bean soup and Black Bean cakes to go along with the amazing complimentary cuban bread.

6. Enjoy lush tropical scenery at Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota Jungle Gardens, a lush 10 acre botanical garden, is one of Florida’s oldest tourist attractions. Since 1939, visitors from all over have enjoyed the beautiful manicured gardens. In addition to seeing lovely native plants, you will also have the opportunity to see lots of wildlife. Many of these birds and animals have been rescued. I really seeing all the exotic birds, the free roaming flamingos, and most of all the shows!

A few of the animals you may encounter during your visit include crocodiles, lemurs, and flamingos. Bird and reptile shows occur throughout the day, so be sure to check the schedule prior to your visit.