15 Best Things to do in Sarasota, Florida

Planning a trip to Sarasota? We’re here to help.

You could happily spend your entire vacation here on the beach, and with beautiful spots like Siesta Key and Lido Beach, we wouldn’t blame you! But this Gulf Coast city has so much more than white sand and sunshine. You can kayak through mangrove tunnels, explore incredible art museums, and head out on the water in search of dolphins. Sarasota even has a fascinating circus history that makes it a little different from your typical Florida beach town!

So, if you’re wondering how to make the most of your visit, we’ve rounded up 15 of the best things to do in Sarasota. Let’s get into it!

Sarasota At A Glance

Sarasota is easy to visit, but there are a few things you should know before you start planning your trip. Fortunately, we love spending time in Sarasota, and we’ve picked up lots of tips! 

• You don’t necessarily need a rental car: Sarasota traffic can get pretty busy, especially during peak season. If you’re staying downtown, you can use Uber to get around, although a rental car is handy for exploring further afield.

• Avoid hurricane season: Hurricane season runs from June through November, with the highest risk generally between August and October. If you can, we’d recommend visiting outside of these months!

• There’s more to Sarasota than beaches: Don’t get us wrong, the beaches are gorgeous! But Sarasota also has a thriving arts scene, so make sure to explore beyond the coastline.

How We Would Spend Three Days in Sarasota

🛶 Day 1: Mangrove Kayaking, Beach Time & Sunset Ride
Start with a kayak trip through Sarasota’s mangrove tunnels, then spend a lazy afternoon at the beach, followed by dinner on Siesta Key and a sunset e-bike ride.

🎨 Day 2: The Ringling, Downtown Exploring & Food Tour
Dive into Sarasota’s history at The Ringling, explore downtown, and eat your way around the city on a food tour before an evening stroll along the waterfront.

⛵ Day 3: Catamaran Adventure, Botanical Gardens & St. Armands Circle
Explore Sarasota’s waterways on a two-seater catamaran, wander through the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, then spend your final evening eating and enjoying the atmosphere at St. Armands Circle.

Things to do in Sarasota

1. Bike around Siesta Key at sunset 

Siesta Key is famous for its gorgeous sunsets, but why just watch one from the beach when you could enjoy it on an electric bike? We did this sunset e-bike tour and had SO much fun! It’s such a unique way to experience one of Sarasota’s most beautiful beaches.

The tour lasted for two hours, and after a quick introduction to the bikes, we headed straight onto the sand. Yes, you actually get to ride along the beach! The electric bikes are super fun to use, and with five levels of pedal assistance, you can put in as much or as little effort as you like. So don’t worry if you’re not much of a cyclist!

We followed our guide along Siesta Beach, enjoying incredible views of the Gulf of Mexico. Of course, the highlight was stopping to watch the sunset, which was absolutely beautiful! We had plenty of time to take photos before continuing through Siesta Key Village and heading back.

We loved that this tour combined a fun activity with one of Sarasota’s must-see sights. Plus, with a small group and a friendly guide leading the way, it’s ideal for first-time visitors.

Related Read: Planning to spend some time on Siesta Key? Check out our 3-day Siesta Key itinerary for the perfect mix of beach time, fun activities, and local favorites!

2. Kayak through mangrove tunnels

If you’re looking for an adventure that shows off Sarasota’s wild side, this guided mangrove kayaking tour is a must! You’ll paddle through beautiful waterways, search for wildlife, and explore incredible natural tunnels. How cool is that?

The tour lasts for two hours and takes you through Sarasota Bay and the famous Lido Key mangrove tunnels. You’ll start with a quick kayaking lesson, then head out onto the water with your guide, so don’t worry if you’re a complete beginner!

As you paddle across Sarasota Bay, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. This area is home to dolphins, manatees, stingrays, and tons of different bird species, so you never know what you might spot! 

Then comes the highlight: kayaking through the mangrove tunnels themselves! You’ll paddle beneath a canopy of tangled branches, navigating narrow waterways that feel like something straight out of a jungle. It’s such a unique experience, and a completely different side of Sarasota to explore.

We think this is a fantastic choice for nature lovers, especially since your guide will help you spot wildlife and teach you about the local ecosystem along the way. Plus, with over 1,300 glowing reviews, it’s clearly a popular choice!

3. Check out The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art 

Did you know that Sarasota has a fascinating circus history? The famous Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus once had its winter headquarters here, and today, you can explore that legacy at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art!

Founded by circus magnate John Ringling and his wife, Mable, this impressive museum is actually the official State Art Museum of Florida. And it’s HUGE! There are 31 galleries to explore, with everything from European masterpieces to contemporary art. Even the building itself is beautiful, with its pink Renaissance-style architecture and gorgeous courtyard.

But there’s more to see here than just art! The museum is part of a sprawling waterfront estate that also includes the Ringlings’ former home, Ca’ d’Zan. This spectacular Venetian Gothic-style mansion was built in the 1920s and overlooks Sarasota Bay. It’s super impressive and offers a glimpse into the couple’s lavish lifestyle!

You can also visit the Circus Museum to learn more about Sarasota’s colorful past, with historic costumes and memorabilia on display. You’ll probably want at least 3-4 hours to explore the estate, though we wouldn’t blame you if you stayed longer. You can check admission options on The Ringling’s official website.

4. See Sarasota’s top sights on a trolley

It’s no secret that Florida gets pretty hot, so if you want to see more of Sarasota without spending hours walking in the heat, we highly recommend this sightseeing trolley tour. It’s a fantastic way to get your bearings, especially if it’s your first time visiting the city! Plus, riding on a vintage trolley is always fun. 

Over 90 minutes, you’ll cruise around Sarasota in an air-conditioned trolley, passing some of the city’s most famous landmarks. These include The Ringling, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and the Sarasota Opera House. You’ll also explore historic neighborhoods like Burns Court, which is known for its beautiful Mediterranean Revival architecture.

But this isn’t just about sightseeing! Your guide will bring Sarasota’s history to life with fascinating stories about the people who shaped the city. You’ll learn about its circus connections, historic buildings, and thriving arts scene. The guides are also known for being super entertaining, so it’s far from a boring history lesson!

We also love that you’ll get plenty of local recommendations along the way, including tips on the best places to eat and explore. Just keep in mind this is a sightseeing tour rather than a hop-on, hop-off experience, so you won’t stop at every attraction, but it’s a great way to figure out what you want to come back and explore later. 

5. Enjoy a dolphin sunset boat tour around Anna Maria Island 

Watching dolphins in the wild is always special, but throw in a gorgeous Gulf Coast sunset, and you’ve got a pretty perfect evening! That’s exactly what this dolphin sunset cruise offers, and we think it’s one of the best ways to enjoy Sarasota’s beautiful coastline.

The tour lasts for two hours and departs from Anna Maria Island, where you’ll board a boat and cruise through the beautiful back bays and coastal waterways. Your captain will keep an eye out for wild dolphins, which often swim and play in these waters. You might even see manatees if you’re visiting at the right time of year!

We love that this isn’t just a sightseeing cruise, either. The knowledgeable crew will teach you about local marine life, and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. You can even bring your own drinks and snacks on board!

Of course, the highlight is watching the sun sink below the horizon, turning the sky beautiful shades of orange and pink. Talk about a memorable way to end the day!

Just remember that dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, although the crew will do their best to find them! And judging by the glowing reviews, they seem to have a pretty high success rate.

6. Visit Sarasota’s best beaches 

You can’t visit Sarasota without spending some time at the beach! This part of Florida is famous for its gorgeous Gulf Coast coastline, and with so many beautiful beaches to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Here are a few of our favorites to check out:

• Siesta Beach: This is Sarasota’s most famous beach, and it’s easy to see why! The sand is unbelievably white and soft, thanks to its high quartz content, and the turquoise water is gorgeous. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watching the sunset, although it can get pretty busy!

• Lido Beach: Located close to St. Armands Circle, Lido Beach is another fantastic choice. We love that you can spend the morning on the sand, then head into town for lunch or a little shopping. It’s a great spot for a classic Florida beach day!

• Turtle Beach: If you’d prefer somewhere a little quieter, head to Turtle Beach on the southern end of Siesta Key. It’s generally less crowded than Siesta Beach, with darker sand and great shelling opportunities.

• Caspersen Beach: Fancy hunting for prehistoric shark teeth? Head south to Caspersen Beach in Venice! This natural stretch of coastline is famous for the fossilized shark teeth that wash ashore. Bring a sand sifter and see what you can find!

We’d recommend visiting at least a couple of these beaches during your stay. After all, you’re in Florida!

7. Explore the waterways on a two-seater catamaran

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous than your typical boat cruise, this two-seater catamaran tour looks like SO much fun! You’ll get to drive your own mini speedboat around Sarasota’s beautiful waterways, and trust us, these little boats are seriously cool!

The tour lasts two hours, and you’ll explore Sarasota Bay, Bird Key, and Lido Key aboard a CraigCat. These compact catamarans seat two people side by side, so you can share the experience with a friend or partner. Don’t worry if you’ve never driven a boat before, as your guides will show you how everything works!

Once you’re out on the water, you’ll follow your guide through scenic canals, cruise past gorgeous waterfront homes, and pick up some speed in the open bay. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, too, as they’re often spotted here.

What we love about this tour is that you’re not just sitting back and sightseeing. You’re actually part of the adventure! It’s a fantastic way to explore Sarasota from a completely different perspective, and you’ll see parts of the coastline that you simply can’t reach on foot. Plus, you get the excitement of driving your own boat without worrying about navigating unfamiliar waterways, since your guide leads the way.

We think it’s an especially fun choice for couples or friends who want to try something different. It has all the excitement of a water sports adventure, but you still get to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way!

8. Taste your way around Sarasota 

One of our favorite ways to get to know a new city is through its food, and Sarasota has a fantastic dining scene! If you’re a fellow foodie, this downtown food tour is a great way to discover some delicious local spots while learning more about the city.

The tour lasts about 3-4 hours and takes you through downtown Sarasota, stopping at several local restaurants. You’ll get to sample a variety of dishes, with generous portions that add up to a full meal. So make sure you arrive hungry!

But this isn’t just about eating! As you stroll between restaurants, your guide will share stories about Sarasota’s history and point out interesting landmarks, so you get a little sightseeing thrown in with all that delicious food. This is a great one for your first day in Sarasota, because it should help you get your bearings. Plus, you’ll get a ton of insider recommendations from a local who knows the dining scene, which are bound to come in handy throughout the rest of your time here. 

As for the food, you can expect a delicious mix of cuisines! Depending on the day, you can get anything from smoky barbecue brisket and ribs to Italian meatballs, ravioli, and tacos. You might even finish with creamy gelato for dessert! The restaurants and dishes change to keep the tour current, but that’s all part of the fun.

9. Wander through the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 

Need a break from the beach? Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is one of Sarasota’s most beautiful attractions, and a must for anyone who loves nature! Located right on Sarasota Bay, this gorgeous botanical garden feels like a tropical paradise in the middle of the city.

The downtown campus spans 15 acres (6 hectares) and is home to an incredible collection of about 20,000 plants. We’re talking about colorful orchids and all kinds of exotic species! In fact, Selby Gardens is world-famous for its collection of epiphytes, which are plants that grow on other plants rather than in the ground. Pretty cool, right?

One highlight is the Tropical Conservatory, where you’ll find gorgeous orchids and bromeliads in a lush rainforest setting. There’s also an impressive Banyan Grove, a children’s rainforest garden, and a waterfront mangrove walkway with beautiful views across Sarasota Bay.

And there’s more than just plants! Selby Gardens is also a living museum, with exhibitions that combine art and nature. It’s a lovely place to spend a few hours, especially if you want a change of pace from Sarasota’s busier attractions.

We recommend allowing 2-3 hours to explore everything without rushing. You can also grab something to eat at the onsite restaurant or cafe while you’re here! Check opening hours and book your tickets on the official Selby Gardens website.

10. Go on an illuminated kayak nighttime adventure

Think kayaking is just a daytime activity? Think again! This illuminated kayak tour lets you explore Sarasota’s waterways after dark, and it’s easily one of the most unique experiences on our list!

The tour lasts for 1 hour and 15 minutes, and you’ll paddle through the calm coastal waters in a transparent kayak fitted with colorful LED lights. These illuminate the water beneath you, giving you a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world. How cool is that?

As you paddle over seagrass beds and around mangroves, your guide will help you spot local marine life. You might see crabs, shrimp, starfish, and all kinds of interesting fish. Some lucky visitors even spot dolphins or manatees!

What makes this tour extra special is that it’s interactive, too. Guests often get to use small nets to discover tiny marine creatures, which the guides can show you and teach you about before they’re released. It’s like a mini marine biology lesson, but WAY more fun!

We also love the idea of seeing Sarasota’s illuminated skyline from the water. It’s a completely different experience from daytime kayaking, and a fantastic activity for families or couples looking for something memorable.

You don’t need prior kayaking experience, either, and all your equipment is provided. Just wear something you don’t mind getting wet!

11. Explore Myakka State Park on two wheels

Want to see a completely different side of Florida? Swap the beaches for the wilderness on this guided e-bike safari through Myakka River State Park! It’s one of the best places near Sarasota to spot alligators in the wild, and exploring on two wheels makes the experience even more fun.

The tour lasts for 2.5 hours and takes you through the park’s beautiful wetlands, forests, and open prairies. You’ll ride electric bikes, which means you can choose how much effort to put in. After all, nobody wants to spend their entire vacation sweating in the Florida heat!

Along the way, your guide will help you spot wildlife, including the park’s famous alligators. Some lucky visitors have even spotted baby alligators! You’ll also learn about the park’s history and ecosystem, making it much more interesting than cycling on your own.

Another highlight is visiting the Myakka Canopy Walkway, where you can walk among the treetops and climb an observation tower for incredible views across the park. This tour really is a fantastic choice for nature lovers, too, especially since the guides know exactly where to look for wildlife. They’ll even help you take great photos along the way, so you can show off to friends and family back home!

12. Explore St. Armands Circle

If you’re in the mood for a little shopping or a delicious meal, St. Armands Circle is the place to go! This charming shopping and dining district is one of Sarasota’s most popular spots, and it’s a lovely place to spend an afternoon.

Located on St. Armands Key, just a short distance from Lido Beach, this open-air shopping district has a distinctly European feel. You’ll find everything from independent boutiques and art galleries to upscale fashion stores and souvenir shops. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s definitely worth coming for a wander!

And of course, there are plenty of places to eat! Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, Italian food, or just an ice cream to cool off in the Florida heat, you’ll be spoiled for choice. We think it’s a fantastic spot to grab lunch or enjoy dinner after a day at the beach.

There’s some interesting history here, too! Circus magnate John Ringling originally developed St. Armands Circle, and the central park is home to beautiful statues and the Circus Ring of Fame, which celebrates legendary circus performers.

We recommend spending a couple of hours exploring the shops and stopping for something to eat. Better yet, you can combine your visit with a few hours at nearby Lido Beach. Shopping, good food, and a gorgeous beach sound like a pretty great day to us!

13. Go parasailing

Fancy seeing Florida’s gorgeous Gulf Coast from a completely different perspective? Then this parasailing adventure is for you! You’ll soar up to 400 feet (122 meters) above the ocean, with incredible views of Anna Maria Island and its beautiful white-sand beaches.

The experience departs from Bradenton Beach Marina, where you’ll board a boat and head out into the Gulf of Mexico. After a safety briefing, you’ll be strapped into a harness and gently lifted into the air. There’s no jumping involved, so don’t worry if you’ve never been parasailing before!

Once you’re up there, you’ll have around 10-12 minutes to enjoy the views. You can see the coastline stretching into the distance, and you might even spot dolphins, manatees, or sea turtles swimming below. How amazing would that be?

And here’s something that might surprise you: despite the height, parasailing is actually a pretty peaceful experience! Once you’re airborne, you can sit back and enjoy the views. Although if you fancy an extra thrill, you can even ask the crew about dipping your toes into the water!

The entire experience lasts around 1.5 hours, and you can fly in pairs or groups of three, depending on conditions. We think it’s a fantastic activity for couples, friends, or families looking to make some unforgettable vacation memories, and the hundreds of glowing reviews certainly attest to that.

14. Spot dolphins and wildlife around Anna Maria Island

There’s something so special about seeing dolphins in the wild, and Florida’s Gulf Coast is a fantastic place to do it! If you love wildlife as much as we do, then this dolphin sightseeing cruise around Anna Maria Island is definitely worth adding to your Sarasota itinerary.

What makes this part of Florida so special is its incredible marine ecosystem. The sheltered bays, mangrove forests, and underwater seagrass beds provide food and shelter for all kinds of wildlife. These waters are home to resident dolphins, while manatees come to feed on the seagrass. It’s an amazing place to see marine animals going about their lives in their natural habitat!

The tour lasts for two hours and takes you through the beautiful waterways around Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. Your captain knows the area inside and out, including the best places to spot wild dolphins, so you’ll have a much better chance of seeing them than from the shore.

And dolphins aren’t the only animals to look out for! You might also spot manatees, ospreys, eagles, and other coastal wildlife. Along the way, your captain will share interesting facts about the animals and the island’s history, so you’ll learn plenty, too. Plus, the boat has a shaded roof, which is a welcome bonus under the Florida sun!

15. Spend some time at the Mote Marine Laboratory Aquarium 

If you love marine life, Mote Science Education Aquarium is a must-visit while you’re in Sarasota! This incredible attraction is much more than your typical aquarium, combining fascinating marine exhibits with important scientific research and conservation work.

And there’s some exciting news! Mote opened a brand-new, state-of-the-art aquarium in October 2025, replacing its former City Island location. The new facility is at Nathan Benderson Park and features incredible exhibits showcasing Florida’s marine life and creatures from around the world.

One of the biggest highlights is the enormous 400,000-gallon Gulf Coast habitat, where you can watch sharks, rays, and sea turtles swimming overhead. You can also see manatees, playful river otters, colorful reef fish, and even penguins!

But what makes Mote particularly special is its focus on marine conservation. You’ll learn about the research being carried out to protect our oceans, from restoring coral reefs to studying sharks. Interactive exhibits and touch pools also make it a fantastic place for curious kids and adults alike.

We’d recommend allowing around 2-3 hours to explore. The aquarium is open daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm, and there’s free parking available. Tickets are sold for timed entry slots, so we recommend booking yours in advance via the official website, especially during busy periods. You can even save money by planning!

Where to Stay in Sarasota, Florida 

Now that you know all the best things to do in Sarasota, you just need somewhere to stay! We recommend staying in downtown Sarasota, especially on your first visit. You’ll be close to fantastic restaurants, art galleries, and the waterfront, with beautiful beaches like Lido Beach just a short drive away.

However, some excellent hotels are a little farther out, too, especially if you’re renting a car. Below, we’ve picked three of our favorites for a range of budgets!

The Westin Sarasota – $$$

If you’re looking to treat yourself, The Westin Sarasota is our top luxury pick. This gorgeous hotel sits in downtown Sarasota overlooking Sarasota Bay, so you’re in a fantastic spot to explore the city. The hotel even offers a complimentary beach shuttle, which we think is an awesome bonus! 

The rooms are modern and spacious, with seriously comfortable beds, and some offer beautiful water views. There’s also an on-site spa where you can indulge in a massage after a busy day of exploring. 

But the real highlight has to be the rooftop pool and bar! Located on the 19th floor, The Roof Bar and Eats has incredible panoramic views across Sarasota Bay and the city. Rooms start from around $400 USD per night. Read the amazing reviews and book your stay at The Westin Sarasota here!

Carlisle Inn Sarasota – $$

For a comfortable stay without the luxury price tag, Carlisle Inn Sarasota is a fantastic choice. It’s located in the Pinecraft neighborhood, a short drive from downtown Sarasota, so it’s great if you’re renting a car.

One thing that makes this hotel interesting is its Amish and Mennonite heritage, which you’ll notice in the handcrafted furniture and welcoming atmosphere. The rooms are spacious and well-maintained, and the hotel also offers a lovely outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center. Plus, a complimentary hot breakfast is included each morning, which is always a nice way to start the day!

If you’re hungry later, the nearby Der Dutchman Restaurant serves delicious Amish-style comfort food, including homemade pies, which we strongly encourage you to try! Rooms start at around $200 USD per night. Book your stay at Carlisle Inn Sarasota here!

Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota – $

If you’d rather save your money for dolphin cruises and beach days, Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota is our budget pick. It’s about two miles from downtown Sarasota, so you’ll still be close to the main attractions, though a car will make getting around much easier.

We really like this hotel because you get a suite rather than a standard hotel room. Each one comes with a fully equipped kitchen, plus separate living and sleeping areas, which is especially handy for families and longer stays. And being able to prepare some of your own meals can save you a considerable chunk of change in this city.

You’ll also get a complimentary hot breakfast each morning, free parking, and access to an outdoor swimming pool and fitness center. Not bad, since prices start at just $135 USD per night. Find the best deals for Homewood Suites Sarasota here!

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Check out more great accommodations for Sarasota here!

Thanks for reading!

Sarasota proves there’s WAY more to a Florida vacation than just lying on the beach (though we definitely recommend plenty of that, too!). From paddling through mangrove tunnels to spotting dolphins, exploring Sarasota’s quirky circus history, and watching those incredible Gulf Coast sunsets, this city has it all!

Before you head off, be sure to check out our other USA blogs! We’ve explored some amazing destinations across the country and love sharing our favorite experiences, hidden gems, and travel tips to help you make the most of every trip. Or keep the adventure going with these travel guides below!

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