Sarasota Beaches
Sarasota Beaches
35 Miles of beautiful beaches....
Sarasota offers numerous public beaches along the Gulf, stretching 35 miles, from Longboat Key to Engelwood. These lovely beaches with their white sand, shells in abundance and jetties are ideal for fishing and snorkeling.
The locals in Sarasota like to say, "Welcome to Paradise", and one of the most obvious reasons is the area's incredibly beautiful beaches edging luxuriant blue-green Gulf Waters under azure blue skies. As if those heavenly aspects weren't enough, most evenings present a memorable sunset-watching experience, too! Each beach has its distinguishing features, so you can visit one each day and compare notes.
Siesta Beach
The sand on Siesta Key makes it one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Composed of 99% crystal, it's more akin to powdered sugar than to the crunchy stuff most of us know from beaches in the Northeast. Because of its unique composition, it stays cool to the touch, even on the hottest days. The Gulf waters here are shallow quite far out, so it's not unusual to see bathers walking or simply standing in the water, enjoying its gentle flow.
Siesta Key Beach swimmers are protected by lifeguards at three colorful stands during regular swimming hours. Signs and flags update visitors on safety conditions, including cautions about riptides. Every Sunday evening, the popular Drum Circle assembles on the beach near the main entrance, and while a varied group of drummers pound out an hypnotic beat, visitors watch, dance, and relax from early dusk into the evening.
Lido Beach 
St. Armand's Circle is centrally located on the lushly landscaped island of Lido Key. Not only will you find contemporary architecture of distinction, Lido Key also boasts stunning beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, year-round lifeguards, acres of recreation area along the bay, spectacular views, playgrounds and pools for lounging at our Mid-Key public beach. For those visiting Lido Key in search of peace and quiet, enjoy one of our hidden white sugar sand beaches and relax your days away. All will enjoy the charms of St. Armand's circle, just a short walk from many Lido Key areas. Superb exclusive shops, galleries, exotic boutiques, sophisticated restaurants and nightlife all located on St. Armand's Circle. While you’re there, remember to visit the center of St. Armand's Circle to see The Circus Ring of Fame, a "sidewalk of circus stars." A must for any kid at heart! Or, if you are more the romantic type, treat yourself to a special view of this island by a horse-drawn carriage.
St. Armand's Circle, Lido Key continues to be a tribute to John Ringling, the man with a vision to last long past his time. Enjoy our lifestyle.... our paradise.....
Longboat Key Beaches
Stretching narrowly for twelve sun-drenched miles between the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, Longboat Key provides an ideal beach and bayfront setting for the ultimate Florida vacation and lifestyle.
Although it is known as a private island, Longboat Key is a popular destination for visitors from around the world. You are welcomed to a plush island of tasteful luxury and tempting quiet pleasures that cater to all personalities. If you are the athletic type, activities on Longboat Key are endless! Shelling, biking, fishing, dining, watersports and rollerblading… just to name a few. Tennis and golf enthusiasts are welcome to take advantage of our first-class Longboat Key Country Clubs. For those seeking a little city life, Longboat Key is only minutes from Sarasota. The city offers many cultural activities from the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center, Asolo Theater, Ringling Museum, Sarasota Ballet to the Sarasota Opera House. Even closer than downtown Sarasota is world-class shopping on St. Armand's Circle, just a bridge away!
Longboat Key is host to all the pleasures a true hedonist could imagine. Bask in the tropical sun, play a round of golf, game of tennis, cocktails by sunset, dinner by candlelight or a performance in the city. So many pleasures, so little time….escape to our island!
