
7 Day Sarasota Itinerary: Beaches, Food & Hidden Gems
Plan your perfect 7 day Sarasota itinerary with top beaches, amazing food, and hidden gems along Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast.
Discover Sarasota’s most unforgettable highlights — iconic beaches, outdoor adventures, top restaurants, family favorites, local gems, and must-see attractions that define the Gulf Coast’s most vibrant city.

Explore Sarasota’s top beaches—Siesta Key, Lido Key, Crescent, South Lido, and Turtle Beach—each offering white sands, crystal-clear waters, and endless family fun. Discover your perfect beach day on the Gulf Coast

Plan your perfect 7 day Sarasota itinerary with top beaches, amazing food, and hidden gems along Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast.

Discover the best time of year to visit Sarasota beaches — from snowbird winters and spring break to turtle nesting and summer getaways.

Discover Siesta Key Beach—award-winning white sand, Siesta Village dining, drum circles, and family memories on Sarasota’s iconic shoreline.
Whether you want Gulf views, nightlife, family-friendly resorts, or peaceful escapes, these Sarasota stays offer the perfect home base for your trip.

Escape to Arlington Park Sarasota — shaded trails, lakes, and year-round recreation where neighbors, kids, and retirees all find their rhythm.

The Bay Park Sarasota brings art, nature, and community together — home to the stunning Ibis Playground, bayfront trails, and events for all ages.

Discover 15 outdoor activities Sarasota fall visitors and locals love — from kayaking mangroves to drum circles, packed with local insight and tips.
Discover Sarasota’s essential experiences — from sunset piers and nature preserves to world-class art, culture, and family favorites.

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

Discover Lido Beach Florida—vintage public beach vibes, mermaid wall, Tiki Bar, and St. Armands dining, plus Sarasota’s best surfing and sunsets.

Explore the Ringling Museum of Art—iconic galleries, Statue of David, banyans, and after-5 events that make it a Sarasota favorite.
Sarasota’s events calendar is packed with art shows, seafood festivals, live music, holiday celebrations, and family-friendly fun all year long.

Discover the Sarasota Chalk Festival through local stories and history. From 3D art to circus tributes, explore why this Sarasota event is unforgettable.

Thunder By The Bay Sarasota roars each winter with motorcycles, live music, vendors, and community spirit at the Sarasota Fairgrounds.

Siesta Key Crystal Classic brings world-class sand sculptors to Sarasota each year — from humble beginnings to breathtaking masterpieces.
Discover Sarasota’s top free or budget-friendly date night ideas that promise unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. From scenic picnics and beachside strolls to cultural excursions and live entertainment, explore the best affordable romantic activities the city has to offer.
Discover Sarasota’s top free or budget-friendly date night ideas that promise unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. From scenic picnics and beachside strolls to cultural excursions and live entertainment, explore the best affordable romantic activities the city has to offer. Read More.

Discover Sarasota’s ultimate dog-friendly destinations, where you and your pup can enjoy scenic beaches like Brohard Beach, stroll through Bird Key Park, or relax at Bayfront Park. For a social outing, visit Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar, where dogs can play while you unwind. Perfect spots for an adventurous or relaxing day with your furry friend!

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.

Climb the tallest hill in Sarasota at Celery Fields Sarasota — a peaceful landmark where sunsets, bird calls, and unexpected adventures meet.
With nearly 40 years of Sarasota living and more than 20 years helping out-of-state buyers relocate with confidence, I guide clients using a lifestyle-first approach — because choosing Sarasota is as much about how you want to live as the home itself. From beaches and neighborhoods to schools, commutes, and local gems, I help you determine which part of Sarasota best fits your vision. -Mike Payne
Experience the vibrant essence of Sarasota through our comprehensive guide, designed to showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage, stunning coastal beauty, diverse culinary scene, captivating attractions, and engaging recreational activities. Whether you’re seeking artistic inspiration, outdoor adventures, family-friendly fun, or the finest accommodations, our curated selections offer invaluable insights to help you make the most of your Sarasota experience.


Discover 12 tiki bars in Sarasota and nearby towns. Savor tropical cocktails, watch sunsets, and soak up island vibes on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

From tiki bars to lifeguard stands, explore 15 must see icons of Sarasota that continue to shape the community and define its character.

Discover South Lido Beach Florida—rustic parking, mangrove tunnels, kayaking, and authentic Old Florida vibes at the tip of Lido Key.