Sarasota & the Keys
Sarasota, at its own pace.
A considered guide to the Gulf Coast’s quieter side: long beach mornings on Lido and Longboat, dinner on the bay, and an afternoon at the Ringling.
Beach Days
Four shorelines, four moods
From the quartz sand of Siesta to the shaded trails of South Lido, choose the beach that suits the day, then stay for the sunset.
Lido Key
Lido Beach
Wide, uncrowded sand a short walk from St. Armands Circle. Lunch and an afternoon swim in one easy outing.
Lido Key
South Lido Park
Pine shade, a kayak trail through the mangroves and views across Big Pass. The most natural stretch near downtown.
Longboat Key
Longboat Key
About ten quiet miles of resort beachfront, with shelling at Greer Island at the northern tip.
Siesta Key
Siesta Beach
The famous powder-white quartz. Arrive early, walk south toward Crescent Beach and skip the midday crowd.
Dining
Where Sarasota books a table
Our short list runs from downtown and the bayfront to St. Armands, Lido and Longboat Key, with two Siesta Key tables worth the drive.
Downtown Sarasota
Michael’s On East
Sarasota’s classic special-occasion room, with polished service and a serious wine list.
The Quay
Ocean Prime
Prime steaks and seafood on the new bayfront, steps from the Van Wezel.
St. Armands Circle
Columbia Restaurant
Spanish-Cuban classics on the Circle since 1959. Order the 1905 Salad.
Longboat Key
Euphemia Haye
A long-running Longboat favorite with a dessert and piano lounge upstairs.
Siesta Key
Ophelia’s on the Bay
Waterfront fine dining on Little Sarasota Bay, best booked for sunset.
The cultural coast
Sarasota has been a winter home for artists, performers and collectors since John and Mable Ringling arrived in the 1910s.
On the Water
A private evening on Sarasota Bay
Reserve the whole boat for up to 16 guests on a captained sunset charter with Barefoot Tiki Tours. Charters leave from downtown Sarasota, minutes from Lido, St. Armands and Longboat Key.
More to explore
Where to Stay
Resorts & hotels
Bayfront hotels downtown and quiet beachfront resorts on Lido and Longboat.
Shopping
St. Armands & beyond
Boutiques and galleries on the Circle, plus Main Street, Palm Avenue and UTC.