The Beaches of Sarasota

With 6 beaches lining Sarasota’s extensive coastline and each one with its own personality, it can be hard deciding which ones to visit. Here is the low down of each of them to make things easier:

Longboat Key:

Longboat Key is the northernmost and longest island along Sarasota’s coast, boasting 12 miles of shoreline. During the summer season, Longboat Key is a popular beach for turtles to nest and lay their eggs. Enjoy relaxing views of the Gulf of Mexico, smaller crowds and a laid-back vibe on this relaxing destination.

Lido Key

Lido Key is nestled between Longboat Key to the north and Siesta Key to the south and boasts three beaches: North Lido, Lido Beach, and South Lido. The key received its name when John Ringling, a fan of Italian culture, referred to its beaches by using the Italian word “lido,” which means “beach.”

Siesta Key

The eight-mile island of Siesta Key is accessible by two bridges from the mainland. Comprised of Siesta Beach (widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the world), Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach, the key attracts families and sunbathers by day and party-goers by night.

Casey Key

The south end of Casey Key is designed with visitors in mind. Picnic areas, concession stands, and on-duty lifeguards attract families to this 18-acre park year-round. Nokomis Beach on Casey Key is Sarasota County’s oldest public beach.

Venice

Caspersen Beach in Venice is one of the longest stretches of beach still in its natural state along Sarasota County’s shoreline. Hiking paths and boardwalks allow for bird watching and views of plant species. Venice Beach, closer to downtown, has colorful lifeguard stands, a pavilion with shaded tables and a café, loads of parking, and bathrooms. Finally, near Caspersen is Sarasota County’s only dog-friendly beach, Brohard Paw Park.

Manasota Key

Manasota Key has four beaches: Manasota, Blind Pass, Englewood, and Stump Pass. Manasota Beach sand dunes and mangroves attract nature lovers; Blind Pass Beach is 60 acres wide between the Gulf and the bay and offers nearly 3,000 feet of sand; Englewood Beach offers grills, picnic tables, pavilions and a range of outdoor sports facilities; and Stump Pass Beach is a state park perfect for hiking and exploring Florida’s natural flora and fauna.

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