The best beaches in Sarasota offer something for everyone, whether you enjoy a lively setting, laid-back, or a more private seascape. In fact, Sarasota has been named one of the “10 Happiest and Healthiest Places to Live on the Beach” by Coastal Living Magazine calling it “Disneyland for happy grown-ups” with plenty of access to Gulf waters, sand, and sunshine. No matter your taste, here’s a list of the top destinations in Sarasota County for the ultimate beach experience.
Siesta Beach | 9418 Beach Road, Sarasota, FL 34242
Siesta Beach certainly gets top billing as it’s been named the No. 1 beach in the nation time and time again. This beach on the island of Siesta Key is known for its brilliant quartz sand which is cool to the touch. There are tennis and volleyball courts, a shaded playground, picnic area, concession stands, free parking, and even a Drum Circle Sundays at sunset.
Lido Beach | 400 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
Often overlooked in the media by its southern neighbor, Siesta Beach, there’s nothing second-rate about Lido Beach. Located only minutes to St. Armands Circle, Lido Beach offers excellent facilities, beautiful sand, sunset vistas and even a 25-meter public swimming pool. It’s typically less crowded than Siesta Beach but you’ll still get in your fair share of people watching, shell combing, and sunshine.
Nokomis Beach | 100 Casey Key Road, Nokomis, FL 34275
Sarasota County’s oldest public beach, Nokomis Beach offers miles of sandy shoreline on Casey Key, just off the mainland. You’ll find plenty of amenities from a boardwalk to canoe/kayak launch, boat ramp, the historic Nokomis Beach Plaza designed by Jack West, playgrounds, and volleyball.
Brohard Beach & Paw Park | 1600 Harbor Drive, Venice, FL 34285
One of the few beaches in the region where four-legged friends are welcome to join their two-legged companions, Brohard Beach and Paw Park offers a fishing pier, picnic facilities, restrooms and more. The Paw Park is separate from the beach where dogs can play in a fenced-in area and even rinse off after a swim in the Gulf.
Venice Beach | 101 The Esplanade S, Venice, FL 34285
Venice Beach is quieter than Siesta or Lido Beach. It’s most well-known for its collection of fossilized shark’s teeth. In fact, Venice Beach was named one of the “Most Extraordinary Beaches in the World” by Expedia for its title as the Shark’s Tooth Capital of the World. Venice Beach is only a few minutes’ drive from downtown Venice – a great place to stop for ice cream or dinner after a sun-filled day.
Longboat Key beaches | Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228
For those who want a serene beach experience, Longboat Key offers beaches of seclusion. Public access and parking are kept to a minimum. While there are no amenities, there’s plenty of seashells and space to spread.
North Jetty Beach | 1000 S. Casey Key Road, Nokomis, FL 34275
A great place for people and boat watching, North Jetty Beach is at the southern tip of Casey Key. You’ll find parking, concessions, bathrooms, and plenty of fishing, shelling, and sunning.
If you want to learn about life along the beaches of Sarasota and the benefits of living here, then please contact me. I look forward to helping you discover Sarasota real estate.