The Beaches of Sarasota

No matter how cultural or eclectic Sarasota gets, we will always be a beach town at heart! The beach is where we walk, relax, collect thoughts, enjoy sunsets and catch some rays. And Sarasota's beaches are world famous for their expanses of gorgeous sand and blue-green water. What are you waiting for? Get out there! (but don't forget your sunblock)

Siesta Key Beach - Our most famous beach boasts the finest, gleaming white sand around. The sand is 99% quartz - aside from being gorgeous, this sand never gets hot, even on the hottest day. Siesta Beach has concessions, restrooms, lifeguards, picnic areas, playgrounds, showers and a large, free parking area. Siesta is known for the Drum Circles on Sunday night, and is famous for sunset viewing! Located on Ocean Boulevard; take Midnight Pass Road north from the South Causeway at Stickney Point; or travel across the north causeway and follow signs to the beach!

Turtle Beach - Also on Siesta Key, Turtle Beach is located almost to the end of the Key. The beach itself is shorter , and nearly non-existent at high tide; making it a good choice for people who have trouble walking long distances or want to keep a very close eye on children. There are no lifeguards. Parking is limited but free; there are picnic tables and a small playground. Take Midnight Pass Road south to the beach on your right; Turtles Restaurant is across the street.

Palmer Point Beach - At the very southernmost tip of Siesta Key , you can generally walk across to the beaches of Casey Key since the closing of Midnight Pass. There are no amenities. Take Midnight Pass south to the very end.

Lido Beach - If you are staying on the north end of town, Lido Beach , located on Lido Key may be for you. Just as expansive and sweeping as Siesta Key Beach, but not as crowded (except on special occasions, like the Grand Prix Races on the 4th of July, when it is packed!) Lido Beach has lifeguards, playground, rest rooms, concessions, and a large free parking lot. Located about a half mile west of St. Armand's Circle.

South Lido Beach - At the very south end of Lido Key is a natural oasis known as South Lido Key Beach Park. The park is bordered by four bodies of water; The Gulf of Mexico, Big Pass, Sarasota Bay, and Brushy Bayou. There are nature trails, a canoe trail, picnic and bar-b-que facilities, restrooms and a playground. Swimming is limited due to currents and boat acitvity.

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