Top Beaches in Sarasota County to Visit

If you plan on spending time in Sarasota, Florida, then you likely already know how beautiful the beaches are. Sarasota is well-known for all the sun, sand, and water that visitors want to experience while on vacation in Florida. If you are looking for where the best Sarasota beaches are near you, continue reading. No matter where you are staying, there is sure to be a beach that suits your needs. Here are some of the best beaches in Sarasota County to consider visiting on your next stay in one of our vacation rentals in Sarasota, FL!

Lido Key Beach

Lido Key is between Longboat Key Beach to the north and Siesta Key Beach to the south. There are three beaches in Lido Key: North Lido, Lido Beach, and South Lido. Parking is available on the north end of the beach. Currents on North Lido Key Beach are strong, which is why you will also find lifeguards on duty. It is a well-maintained, private beach with a variety of beach amenities. Lido Beach is considered a small and relaxing beach within the City of Sarasota city limits. Visitors can also reserve sections of the beach for private functions and weddings. Guests can access restrooms, gift shops, concessions, and a playground.

Longboat Key Beach

Longboat Key Beach offers a calmer way of enjoying the beaches of Florida. You’ll discover a much slower pace and laid-back way of doing things here. Visitors to Longboat Key Beach enjoy a variety of beachside activities, such as golf, luxury shopping, and fine dining. If you want to do something a little more exciting, why not consider booking a Sarasota fishing charter, or trying snorkeling and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Longboat Key?  It is a 12-mile stretch of the most pristine white sand beaches that you’ll find in Florida. Longboat has a variety of native Florida wildlife, which you can see when you take advantage of the available sightseeing cruises.

Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key Beach is one of the most popular beaches near Sarasota. It is a year-round destination for many seeking fun, sun, and sand. You’ll find many beach activities, such as volleyball courts, tennis courts, and, fishing, boating, snorkeling, and a shaded playground area. Don’t worry if you didn’t pack a lunch, because there are also concession stands conveniently located at the beach. With a shallow shoreline and lifeguards, this beach is ideal for those traveling as a family. Visitors are invited to gather on Sunday evening to commemorate the end of the weekend in a Drum Circle!

Venice Beach

Venice Beach’s claim to fame is that it is a certified Blue Wave Beach. Many visitors will notice the sail-like pavilion as a beach landmark, in addition to the restroom building, constructed in 1964. Venice Beach is in Venice city limits and maintained by Sarasota County. There is free parking available and lifeguards on duty. While at the beach, also visit Venice Public Fishing Pier, where there are plenty of opportunities to catch sight of shorebirds and dolphins. You’ll see a variety of marine turtle nests along the beaches of Venice from May to October. Many visiting Venice Beach take advantage of such activities, like sand volleyball, picnicking, on the beach. There is also a food concession available if you choose to purchase food once you arrive at the beach. 

It doesn’t matter what type of beach experience you wish to have, you are sure to find it enjoying the Sarasota weather on any of the beaches that we have listed. Many of them are near our Sarasota condo rentals, which makes it easy for you to access them, even if for just a day. And if you want more water after your beach day is done, consider one of our Sarasota rentals with a pool!