Your Gateway To The Gulf Of Mexico
Sarasota’s beaches are renowned the world over for their crystal white sand, collectible shells, fossilized sharks’ teeth, and breathtaking sunsets. With 14 different beaches to choose from along 35 miles of shoreline, you’re sure to find one (and probably more!) that suits your mood. We’re delighted to provide you with this overview to help you plan your excursion. For your convenience, the list is ordered from Sarasota’s northernmost beach (Longboat Key) to the southernmost beach (Venice Beach).
Longboat Key
Longboat Key’s 12 miles of pristine beaches are lined by luxury homes and condominiums, but with many public access points, everyone is welcome to walk this beautiful island’s shoreline. Known to shell collectors as one of the best spots in the area, conch, cat eye, cockle, coquina and jewel box are just some of the treasures to be found. Daily sightings of playful dolphins just offshore, gentle waves lapping at the shore and spectacular sunsets are just some of the reasons for exploring the beaches of Longboat Key.
Lido Beach
Located a half-mile southwest of St. Armand’s Circle. The beach is dynamic and looks a little different every time you visit due to the nearby currents in New Pass just to its north, which at low tide makes this a great place to find perfectly intact sand dollars. The north and south end of the island have wooded shorelines with the south end offering shady picnic and grill areas and a spot for day-boaters to anchor ashore. The public beach area with Lifeguards, concession stand, public pool, restrooms and playground is a great starting spot for a leisurely walk along the gentle Gulf waters in either direction. And don’t miss Brushy Bayou and a paddle through the mangrove tunnels.
Siesta Key
Siesta Key Public Beach is the most popular beach in Sarasota County. It has been recognized as one of “America’s Best Beaches” Third Best Walking Beach in the USA by USA Today International Edition; and for its sugar-fine white-quartz sand – The Best of the Best Sand, by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine. Tennis, volleyball, softball and food concession facilities are available. Picnic pavilions may be rented for a nominal fee. Turtle Beach at the south end of the island offers more secluded settings and kayak launches.
Manasota Beach
Manasota Beach has free parking, picnic tables, showers and restrooms. This beach is a cozy nook on the northern end of the island with a small parking lot. On the Intracoastal side of the island, across from the beach, is a 620 foot dock and boardwalk winding through the mangroves. Located at the north end of Manasota Key, at the west end of Manasota Beach. Beautiful parks, hidden wildlife sightseeing spots, kayak and paddleboard launches and eco-tours help to add to the allure of Manasota.
Casey Key Beach
The Nokomis Beach park on Casey Key includes 22 acres with 1,700 feet on the Gulf and 3,200 feet on the Intracoastal. There’s an on-site snack bar that serves sandwiches, snacks and cold drinks. This old-Florida feeling beach destination is a hidden gem and one favored by families with young children. Amenities include restrooms, concession pavilion, picnic shelters, boat ramp, boardwalk and deck, and dune walkovers. The narrow island of Casey Key has some of the region’s most secluded beaches. And don’t miss sunset at the North Jetty – a sight and scene worth the trip.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is one of five beaches in the nation to receive the 2008 Best Restored Beaches Award presented by the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association. Scuba divers love the reef containing fossilized materials just mile off the beach. For those who choose just to meander along the shore, bring your strainer and find handfuls of fossilized shark’s teeth here. And the 740′ Venice Fishing Pier is one of the most popular fishing spots along the shores of Sarasota.