Things To Do On Vacation in Sarasota

What do YOU like to do on vacation? Everyone’s ideal vacation looks a little different. From exploring local history, seeking thrilling adventures, or simply just lounging poolside with a drink, one size does not fit all when it comes to a Florida vacation. Sarasota, Siesta Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key, and Venice are no exceptions to this rule. Come explore the Florida vacation option that’s just right for you.

Beaches, Shopping & Attractions

If you’re after a little R&R, you won’t find a better destination than Sarasota and her Gulf Islands. Miles and miles of sand lined beaches await you. There are plenty of low-key activities to enjoy. What woman doesn’t enjoy a little retail therapy? St. Armands Circle offers more than 140 shops and restaurants, and you’ll find that Sarasota has lots of unique shops and boutiques. Perhaps the quiet solitude of a morning or afternoon at a museum is more appealing. There is plenty to do and ways to unwind if relaxation is what you’re after.

Family Fun Activities

Need a family-friendly getaway? Sarasota offers a wide array of activities for families. These fantastically family-friendly beaches, award-winning Siesta Beach (No. 1 in the USA), South Lido Park Beach, and Coquina Beach offer great places to start. Kids and adults will love exploring Sarasota Jungle Gardens, and playing a round of mini golf at Evie’s Family Golf Center or Smuggler’s Cove Adventure Golf.

Nature & Eco-Tours

If a nature filled vacation is what you seek, then Sarasota is a great place for you to explore. While others may seek the beach for peace and calm, you may be more interested in checking out Florida’s natural wetlands or nature trails. We recommend that nature lovers experience the natural side of Sarasota by taking a tour at Myakka River State Park or an adventurous airboat ride. You can also visit Big Cat Habitat and Gulfcoast Sanctuary where you’ll find yourself among lions, tigers, and bears!

Sports & Recreation

Can’t image a day without some kind of sport or physical activity? Great! Go get your heart rate up with some outdoor and water sports activities. For an action packed holiday, hit the waves on a jet ski, paddle out on a SUP or kayak through the mangroves.

Romance & Nightlife

Sarasota is for lovers. What better way to show your sweetheart a good time than to experience the romantic side of Sarasota, Venice and the surrounding area. Must Do Visitor Guides recommends an intimate dinner at Siesta Key’s Café Gabbiano or Ophelia’s on the Bay restaurants, followed by a night out on the town or a moonlit stroll on the beach.

Day Trips

You might also consider taking a day trip for a vacation within a vacation. No matter how you like to spend your Florida vacation, the Sarasota area has something for everyone.

Don’t forget to check out our Must Do Visitor Guides travel deals and coupons section before heading out on your Sarasota, Florida vacation so you can do more for less!

Written by:

Nita Ettinger is Co-publisher for Siesta Publications Inc. and the Editor in Chief for Must Do Visitor Guides. Must Do Visitor Guides provides Southwest Florida visitor information through printed magazines and the website MustDo.com. Must Do magazines are published bi-annually and are available at no cost in Sarasota, Lee, and Collier County Chamber of Commerce, visitor information centers, select Southwest Florida hotels, and wherever free publications can be found.