Dream escape: Sarasota
Sun-kissed sand, cool turquoise waters and spectacular sunsets are what await you in this Florida paradise
Located on the southwestern coast of Florida lies the charming city of Sarasota. Home to rich culture, dozens of miles of softsand beaches, mangroves teeming with wildlife and first-class restaurants, this stunning city has all the makings of an ideal spring getaway.
Begin your escape by relaxing in the sun at the beach at South Lido Park, where you’ll find picnic tables, a playground, trails and beautiful scenery. “The sand was white as snow and there were thousands of shells of all kinds to be picked,” says a reviewer from Texas. “The concession area also offered chairs and umbrellas that were a wonderful addition to our beach day.”
To explore the natural beauty of Sarasota, book a mangrove tunnel kayak ecotour ($50 per person) with I Kayak Sarasota to see the stunning local birds and marine life that call the area’s unique ecosystem home.
Says jakegreen on TripAdvisor.com, “The mangrove tunnels are always a treat. We also experienced dolphins putting on a show and hung out with a mom and baby manatee.”
After your excursion, head to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens ($25 per adult, $15 per child), featuring a conservatory, children’s rain-forest garden, koi pond and butterfly garden. “Nice walkways outdoors with benches along the way to rest or just soak it all in,” says katwim on TripAdvisor.com. “You can also walk down to the water for a chance to view the river and downtown Sarasota.”
End your day with a stroll around St. Armands Circle, where you can shop at small boutiques, listen to live music and dine on tasty local cuisine. Says a reviewer from Maine, “Don’t miss Kilwin’s, the place for fudge, kettle corn and delicious ice cream!”
Great day trip:
Tampa
Make the hour-long drive north to explore the bustling city of Tampa. Once there, you can marvel at ferocious felines at the Big Cat Rescue, enjoy the thrills and attractions at Busch Gardens, partake in more than 450 hands-on activities at the Museum of Science & Industry and explore the rich and diverse culture of the historic Ybor City neighborhood.
Don’t miss:
Mote Aquarium
Learn about fascinating marine life with a visit to the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium ($22 per adult). The location features touch pools, viewable labs, a diner, interactive exhibits and more than 100 species of marine animals.