Sarasota's cultural calendar rivals that of much larger metropolitan areas with a professional symphony, ballet and opera. Sarasota also boasts world-class museums and art venues – the most famous being the Ringling Museum of Art.
Even though the Sarasota area applauds the arts, it gets a standing ovation for its natural beauty that includes lush tropical foliage, white sandy beaches, and breathtaking sunsets. It is in this tropical setting that an endless variety of activities can be enjoyed – boating, golf, shell collecting, and tennis, just to name a few.
Ana Maria Island, Siesta Key, and Lido Key are all familiar names that have beaches and recreation that will not disappoint visitors to the area. The Myakka River State Park also provides additional recreational opportunities that is perfect for families that enjoy nature.
Ana Maria Island - This quaint little seven-mile-long island with an "Old Florida" atmosphere is bordered by Sarasota Bay, Ana Maria Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico.
Siesta Key - This award-winning beach has some of the best sand in Florida. Named as one of "America's Best Beaches," "Third Best Walking Beach in the USA," and "The Best of the Best Sand," it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Lido Key - North Lido Beach is a scant half-mile of sand and very private. South Lido Beach is 100 acres of Australian pines that surround miles of trails and wooden walkways providing a playground for picnicking, volley ball, and canoeing.
The influx of wealthy socialites may have set the tone as the winter location for the cultured crowd, but Sarasota has kept an eclectic mix of residents over the years. In its early days, as the winter headquarters for Ringling's circus, it was best known as a circus town with many circus people living in the area. And, for many years Sarasota has been a popular retirement and vacation destination. But, more recently, there seems to be a growing gay community which has added a new dimension to the area's nightlife.
Although the area can be a bit pricey, it gets high marks from this guide. If affordability is an issue, less expensive accommodations are available just to the north in Bradenton which allows short day trips to take in Sarasota's attractions. Bradenton also has some great beaches – Ana Maria, Holmes, and Bradenton Beach.
