Anna Maria Island — Where Time Slows & Memories Take Over
Anna Maria Island blends Old Florida charm, three distinct island vibes, and decades of family memories—just a short drive from Sarasota.
One of the reasons I’ve loved living in Sarasota since 1988 is that spending time outdoors isn’t something you plan once in a while—it’s simply part of everyday life.
One day might begin with a walk beneath ancient oak trees, another with a kayak through mangrove tunnels, and another watching the sun disappear into the Gulf with your toes in the sand. Around here, “getting outside” can mean exploring wild Florida, discovering a quiet beach, or ending the day with live music at a waterfront tiki bar.
If you’re experiencing Sarasota for the first time, don’t try to do it all. Start with a few outdoor experiences that capture the spirit of this place. Then come back and discover the many ways Sarasota invites you outside.
With the Gulf, Sarasota Bay, mangrove tunnels and miles of waterways, getting out on the water is part of life here. Paddle, boat, fish or simply explore the places where Sarasota meets the Gulf.
Anna Maria Island blends Old Florida charm, three distinct island vibes, and decades of family memories—just a short drive from Sarasota.
Discover Boca Grande Florida on Gasparilla Island — an Old Florida gem with island charm, rich history, tarpon fishing, and unforgettable character.
Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix blends world-class powerboat racing, July 4th parades & fireworks, and my unforgettable 120-mph ride off Lido Beach.
Discover Ted Sperling Nature Park Lido — Sarasota’s best spot for kayaking, paddle boarding, and exploring its mangrove tunnels and hidden beaches along Lido Key.
Discover the Venice Jetties in Venice FL—perfect for fishing, boating, bird watching, and the best drive-up Gulf views on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Discover Turtle Beach Siesta Key—coarse sand, smaller crowds, camping by the Gulf, boating, and Old Florida at its finest.
Beyond the beaches, Sarasota opens into wetlands, preserves, oak-shaded trails and some surprisingly wild Florida landscapes. These are some of my favorite places for hiking, wildlife watching and simply getting away from the crowds.
Discover 15 outdoor activities Sarasota fall visitors and locals love — from kayaking mangroves to drum circles, packed with local insight and tips.
Explore Rothenbach Park Sarasota — a shady oak-canopy trail, playground, and family-friendly park filled with deer, open space, and peaceful paved paths.
Discover Nathan Benderson Park Sarasota — from hidden lake to world-class rowing venue, family playground, and year-round waterfront events.
Climb the tallest hill in Sarasota at Celery Fields Sarasota — a peaceful landmark where sunsets, bird calls, and unexpected adventures meet.
Explore Oscar Scherer State Park Campground — a peaceful Old Florida escape for camping, kayaking, and discovering Sarasota’s natural beauty.
Explore Myakka River State Park — Sarasota’s wild heart. From alligators and cabins to Deep Hole and the Canopy Walkway, experience Florida as it once
Sometimes the best way to experience Sarasota is simply on foot. Walk beneath old oaks, follow the bayfront, explore a neighborhood park or find a quiet trail where the scenery becomes the destination.
Escape to Arlington Park Sarasota — shaded trails, lakes, and year-round recreation where neighbors, kids, and retirees all find their rhythm.
Discover Bradenton Riverwalk — a mile-long Manatee River park alive with music, art, and Florida sunsets that turn the water crimson.
Bayfront Park Sarasota blends banyan trees, bay breezes, and tropical vibes from O’Leary’s and Marina Jack — Sarasota’s #1 park for sunsets and memories.
Bird Key Park Sarasota offers bayfront sunsets, leashed-dog water access, and scenic walks along the Ringling Causeway—just minutes from downtown.
Explore Rothenbach Park Sarasota — a shady oak-canopy trail, playground, and family-friendly park filled with deer, open space, and peaceful paved paths.
Discover Red Bug Slough Preserve Sarasota — hidden trails, peaceful lakes, and quiet moments for dog walkers & nature lovers off Beneva Road.
Some of Sarasota’s best outdoor places are easy to pass by. These quieter beaches, hidden trails, natural shorelines and local favorites are worth seeking out when you want a little more space and a little less activity.
Discover Siesta Key activities year-round — from the Sunday Drum Circle and July 4th fireworks to the Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival.
Discover free things to do at Sarasota beaches — from yoga and drum circles to shelling and sunsets. Enjoy Sarasota’s simple coastal pleasures.
Discover Venice Beach Florida—historic charm, shark tooth hunting, and a classic Gulf Coast lifestyle in one of Florida’s last true coastal towns.
Discover Nokomis Beach Florida—rustic parking, drum circles, and Old Florida charm on Casey Key. A simple Gulf escape locals love.
Discover Lido Beach Florida—vintage public beach vibes, mermaid wall, Tiki Bar, and St. Armands dining, plus Sarasota’s best surfing and sunsets.
Discover Siesta Key Beach—award-winning white sand, Siesta Village dining, drum circles, and family memories on Sarasota’s iconic shoreline.
Step off the main paths and discover Sarasota’s lesser-known outdoor gems — peaceful trails, quirky parks, local favorites, and unique places that even longtime residents overlook.
Discover Crescent Beach on Siesta Key — Sarasota’s quiet, vintage beach near Point of Rocks with top snorkeling, shelling & classic old-Florida charm.
Bird Key Park Sarasota offers bayfront sunsets, leashed-dog water access, and scenic walks along the Ringling Causeway—just minutes from downtown.
Discover Red Bug Slough Preserve Sarasota — hidden trails, peaceful lakes, and quiet moments for dog walkers & nature lovers off Beneva Road.
Discover Ted Sperling Nature Park Lido — Sarasota’s best spot for kayaking, paddle boarding, and exploring its mangrove tunnels and hidden beaches along Lido Key.
Discover Caspersen Beach Venice FL, a quiet and rocky shoreline known as the Shark Tooth Capital of the World. A hidden gem off the beaten
Discover Point of Rocks on Siesta Key—rugged limestone ledges, rare shells, snorkeling, and King Tide surprises on Crescent Beach.
Explore Sarasota Lifestyle’s local guides — from beaches and dining to arts, attractions, outdoor fun, family activities, events, and places to stay.
