Welcome to Sarasota, FL!

Florida has many different styles, from the parties of Miami to the theme parks of Orlando. But the one thing undeniable about Florida is the beaches - and no where does it better than Sarasota. A little town on the Gulf Coast, Florida is home to perfect beaches, water sports, history, food, and amazing views. Sarasota delivers on the big promise of a picturesque beach town without missing a beat. Over the next few days, get ready to lay in the sand, go exploring, enjoy the town and its history, and so much more!

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One last thing...

Here's Whym's top ten things to know about Sarasota, FL

Welcome!

Sarasota is the gem of the Gulf Coast of Florida. Small enough to feel quaint but big enough that great food, shopping and culture abounds. Soak up the sun while enjoying the powder white sand beaches. Treat yourself to diverse dining, enriching arts and culture, shopping districts of all sorts and natural Florida fun. In Sarasota, each moment is your own.

Finding Your Way

Transportation is this town is mostly done by car. Ubers and Lyfts are everywhere, but mostly people drive their own cars. A lot of the little pockets around town are walkable but they do require cars to get from one to the other. Public transportation doesn’t have a prevalent place in this city - there are some options but they are rarely the efficient way to get around.

Airport Deets

The Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is located 3 miles north of downtown Sarasota and 6 miles south of downtown Bradenton. Despite its convenience, it’s a very small airport without a lot of flight options. Most often, people fly into the nearest big city of Tampa (TPA) or St. Pete (PIE), about an hour outside of town, and drive in.

History

Sarasota, Florida was occupied originally by a myriad of Native tribes. The area first appeared on a sheepskin Spanish map from 1763 with the word "Zarazote" (meaning "a place of dancing") over present day Sarasota and Bradenton. The Spanish chose to settle here because of the sheltered bay & abundant fish. Sarasota grew into its own over time thanks to its proximity to both nature & the larger cities that grew around it while protecting its beach town feel.

Why Am I Here?

The best reason is visit Sarasota is the weather and the beaches. It is consistently named the "Best Beach in America" & several times "One of the Best Beaches in the World" because the sand never gets hot and there is always a calm breeze off the water.

Weather

In Sarasota, the summers are long, hot, and wet while the winters are short, cool, and breezy. Over the course of the year, the temperature varies from 53° to 90° & rarely below 39° or above 93°. The best weather for outdoor activities is From October - December and March - May. Although beach lovers are happy in the summer months too.

Local Delicacies

Seafood is big in Sarasota of course, but the grouper is the best. With the large population of Amish, the homemade ice cream and fudge are amazing too. Don’t miss the oysters and for the adventurous - the alligator!

Souvenirs

You'll always find people scouring the beach for sand dollars and seashells to take home, but if that's not for you, there are palm tree & flip flop jewelry to remind you of your trip. A tasty choice is a locally-made key lime bundt cake to take back home to share…or not!

Style

"Florida casual" really is a thing. Lots of linen for men and breezy sundresses for women can be found day and night. Wide brim hats are great for strolling. In the winter, bring a sweater and, very rarely, an actual jacket! Summer will call for an umbrella for about two hours a day.

Must Know

With 10 theaters, a professional symphony, the ballet, an opera and over 30 art galleries, Sarasota is surprisingly well known for the arts and culture scene. You will also find the unique John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art in the city.

In Sarasota, we salt our margaritas, not our sidewalks

- Anonymous