Water tours invite you to observe one of area’s most popular residents, the bottlenose dolphin. Some of the most playful and intelligent creatures on the planet, dolphins can often be seen swimming alongside the area’s many sightseeing tours. Bottlenose dolphins can also be spotted from the beach at sunset when they cruise close to shore for fish.

The Sarasota Dolphin Research Program at the Mote Marine Laboratory is the world’s longest-running study of a dolphin population. Over the past 40 years, the study has found more than 150 identifiable resident dolphins, spanning at least five generations, in Sarasota Bay. The Sarasota area is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. Amazing works from local artists can be found in museums and during the Palm Avenue First Friday Gallery Walk. A short walk from the Palm Avenue area is the progressive and intimate galleries of the Towles Court Art District. Artists in many media live and work in this historic neighborhood. Or take in some of nature’s art with a guided tour exploring through mangrove forests, scouting for wildlife on rivers or in parks. Whether by land or sea, there are a myriad of options for exploring and observing the region.