Guide To Sarasota Beach Towns – Plus the Best Beaches In Sarasota

Key Takeaways

• Siesta Key and Venice Beach are popular spots near Sarasota, featuring trendy bars and surfing opportunities.
• Longboat Key hosts various festivals and events, while Port Charlotte is family-friendly and offers outdoor activities.
• Nokomis Beach has transformed over time but remains a hub for drummers, musicians, and light traffic.
• Free trolley services and multiple beach choices make Anna Maria Island ideal for spring break vacations.
• Crescent and Siesta Key beaches stand out for their TripAdvisor ratings, with Siesta Key having 99% pure quartz sand.
• Caspersen Beach offers a glimpse of Florida’s natural coastline, and Coquina Beach is lauded for its tropical oasis vibe.

Sarasota, Florida, is home to many beautiful beaches and attractions. Many Sarasota, Florida beaches are known for their great white sands and clear waters. These beaches include Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach. This beach town is also known for its great attractions, such as the Sarasota Jungle Gardens and the Mote Marine Aquarium. There are so many beaches in Sarasota, Florida, so I wonder, what are the best beach towns near Sarasota, Florida?

Beach Towns Near Sarasota Florida

So what are the towns near Sarasota, Florida, with a beach? They are Bradenton, Siesta Key, Englewood, Bradenton, Lido Key, Longboat Key, and Venice. These beach towns are all within 2 hours’ driving distance from Sarasota, and there are plenty of beach and water activities to do while driving along the coast to visit them.

Sarasota, Florida, was named after the Siesta Key Bridge, which spans the Myakka River. The bridge was dedicated simultaneously with the opening of Lido Key in 1936. Sarasota is known for its fine beaches, golfing, and opera and is home to Ringling College of Art and Design and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

Siesta Key and Venice Beach are great beach towns near Sarasota, Florida. Both offer great beaches, surfing, and trendy bars and restaurants.

My favorites are Siesta Key, known for having some of the best beaches in Florida, and Venice Beach. Let’s talk about these beach towns near Sarasota, Florida, including the activities that attract people. I’ll show you some great spots and things to do during these trips. Keep on reading. You don’t want to miss it!

List of Towns Near Sarasota, Florida With A Beach

Now let’s jump in and describe some of the towns near Sarasota Fl. There is a lot to say about each one of these beach towns, but I’ll keep it brief and highlight some key features of the place.

The Best Beach Towns Near Sarasota

Venice

Venice is located about 30 miles north of Sarasota. This town offers visitors an abundance of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

There are several museums, art galleries, and historical sites to visit.

Venice is known for its unique architecture and charming shops. There are over 400 restaurants to choose from.

Venice is also home to the Venice Art Museum, which features works by famous artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Claude Monet.

In addition to the art museum, Venice is home to the Venice Historical Society, which houses exhibits about local history.

Venice is a great place to spend a relaxing weekend or a romantic getaway.

Port Charlotte, FL

Port Charlotte is located about 20 miles south of Sarasota.

This small town is home to many parks and nature preserves.

There are three golf courses within 10 minutes of Port Charlotte.

Port Charlotte is also home to the Port Charlotte Harbor Resort & Marina, which offers guests a chance to relax and unwind.

This resort has two marinas, a spa, and a fitness center.

Port Charlotte is a great destination for families looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Longboat Key, FL

Longboat Key is located about 15 miles west of Sarasota.

The island is home to some of the most expensive real estate in the United States.

However, Longboat Key is also home to some of the best beaches in the country.

There are numerous hotels and resorts on the island.

Many people come here to enjoy the sun and sand.

Longboat Key is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year.

Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers is located about 25 miles east of Sarasota.

Fort Myers is known for its warm climate and gorgeous beaches.

There are many attractions to explore in Fort Myers, including the San Carlos Institute, founded in 1885.

The institute is home to the world’s largest collection of Native American artifacts.

Fort Myers is also home to the Fort Myers Botanical Garden, open year-round.

There are many restaurants and bars in Fort Myers.

The city is also home to the annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival, which takes place every spring.

Naples, FL

Naples is located about 50 miles southeast of Sarasota.

Naples is known for its beautiful beaches and tropical weather.

There are many places to eat and shop in Naples.

There are also many historical sites to visit in Naples.

Some of these include the USS Maine National Monument, which honors the victims of the explosion in Havana harbor in 1898.

There is also the Castillo de San Marcos, which was built in 1772.

Naples is also home to the Everglades Seafood Festival, which takes place annually during winter.

Bradenton, FL

Bradenton Beach is located on Anna Maria Island, a small town with a big-city personality. It offers the perfect backdrop to a family or romantic getaway. There are plenty of art galleries and local ice cream shops in this town, as well as restaurants that offer kayaks and paddleboards for rent should you want to get out into the water. Bradenton Beach is another beach town worth visiting in Sarasota County, Florida. The Daiquiri Deck is located in the heart of the village and has spectacular views, including a sunset view from its 3rd-floor rooftop.

Bradenton is located about 40 miles southwest of Sarasota.

Bradenton is home to many parks, lakes, and beaches.

There are also several museums and zoos in Bradenton.

Bradenton is also home to the Manatee County Fairgrounds, which hosts many different types of events

Longboat Key

Longboat Key is located about 15 miles north of Sarasota and offers a beautiful beach, a marina, and plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.

Siesta Key

Siesta Key is one of the most popular beaches in Sarasota, and for a good reason. The key has a wide range of beaches and receives huge amounts of sunbathers during the day. It’s also accessible via two bridges and has a lot to offer with its clean white sand beaches and calm waters. Siesta Key is known for its beautiful, clear water and attracts tourists from all over the world.

Siesta Key is 25 miles north of Sarasota and offers a beautiful beach and a marina. It’s also home to many restaurants and shops.

Fort Myers Beach is located about 40 miles east of Sarasota. This beach has beautiful white sand and a boardwalk. It’s also home to some amazing seafood restaurants.

Casey Key

Here is a detailed breakdown of the features and offerings of Casey Key, an 18-acre island off Sarasota, Florida. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, serene environment, and lively events.

Location	Features	Additional Info
Casey Key, an 18-acre island off Sarasota, Florida coast	It has beautiful beaches, concession stands, picnic areas, and lifeguards	Many places to stay nearby, whether you want the peace of a vacation home or just need someplace close by
Nokomis Beach, the most popular beach on the key and the oldest public beach in Sarasota County	Previously a small beachfront town, it has changed over time due to development and natural disasters	Parking at the beach is free, and bathrooms and showers are available
Pavilion at Nokomis Beach	Designed by Jack West of the renowned Sarasota School of Architecture	—
Nokomis Beach on Wednesday and Saturday evenings before sunset	Gathering of different drummers, musicians, and dancers	It is recommended to bring a bicycle due to the narrow streets and light traffic

Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is a small town located on a 7-mile island off the coast of Sarasota, Florida. The town is unique in that no significant developments are allowed on the island – it has maintained its charm and appeal to visitors.

The free trolley allows easy transportation around the island, perfect for spring break vacations! Anna Maria Island offers beautiful beaches, diving, and more. The beach at Bean Point is made of quartz rock which can stay cool year-round in hot weather – making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the sun.

Sarasota is a great place to visit, and Coquina Beach offers some of the best shelling in Florida. Beer Can Island is one of the best beaches on the island, with a fun and lively atmosphere but also home to shark teeth! Bradenton Beach has an exciting and vibrant vibe, while Bridge Street gives visitors a taste of what Sarasota offers.

What Is the Best Beach Near Sarasota

There are many beautiful beaches near Sarasota, but if you are looking for the best beach, we suggest considering Rosemary Beach. This secluded beach town is often ranked as one of the best beaches in America due to its natural beauty and proximity to major cities like Orlando and Tampa Bay.

Here are three of the best Sarasota beaches:

Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is located about 10 miles west of Sarasota. The island has a beautiful beach, many restaurants, and a boardwalk.

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is located about 35 miles southwest of Sarasota. This island has a beautiful white sand beach and a boardwalk full of shops, restaurants, bars, and more.

What Beaches Are Closest to Sarasota – Discover Siesta Key Beach

The closest beaches to Sarasota are Siesta Key Beach, John’s Pass, and the Gulf of Mexico.

Sarasota is located on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The closest beaches to Sarasota are St. Armands Key and Siesta Beach, which are both approximately 10 minutes from the city.

Looking at the map, it appears that there are two beaches closest to Sarasota: Siesta Key Beach and Venice Beach.

Closest Beaches to Sarasota

There are many great beaches close to Sarasota. Cocoa Beach is the perfect choice for a beach town with a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s only 10 miles away and has a family-friendly atmosphere, as well as great surfing and shelling.

The Cocoa Beach Pier also hosts live music, restaurants, and boutiques on its boardwalk-style walkway. If you’re looking for something closer to Sarasota, Siesta Key is worth checking out. With its soft white sand and tranquil turquoise waters, it’s no wonder this beach was voted America’s No. 1 Beach by Dr. Beach in 2011!

Top Beaches Near Sarasota

Sarasota is well known for its beautiful beaches, and there are plenty of them to choose from! Caspersen Beach is the place to go if you’re looking for a shelling beach. This beach is located near Venice and offers direct access to another top-notch Sarasota beach: Venice Beach. Caspersen Beach has a playground, restrooms and showers, and a boardwalk and kayak launch site.

If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, try one of the other four beaches close to Sarasota: Turtle Beach, Blackburn Point Park, Roberts Bay, or Oscar Scherer State Park. These beaches are great for swimming, sunbathing, fishing – and enjoying the amazing Florida weather!

What Beach Activities Can You Do on Beaches Near Sarasota

Beach activities can range from swimming and surfing to snorkeling and parasailing. In addition, many beaches have a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and shops open year-round.

In Sarasota, Florida, you are never far from a beach. There are great beaches to choose from within the city limits and nearby. The best thing about these beaches is that they are all within proximity to one another. If you’re looking for a place to go on the water, you can’t go wrong with any of these beaches in Sarasota.

1. Banana Beach

2. Crescent Beach

3. Gulf of Mexico Beach

4. Lido Key Beach

5. Longboat Key Beach

Sports and Water Activities You Can Do On These Beaches

#1. Play Frisbee Golf

Frisbee golf is one of the most popular sports on the beach near Sarasotawhile it’s still relatively new. This game was invented in the 1970s and involved throwing a frisbee into holes cut into the sand.

There are two types of frisbee golf courses: traditional and disc golf. Traditional frisbee golf uses a plastic frisbee, while disc golf uses a metal disc.

Traditional frisbee golf is played on a course with 18 holes, while disc golf is played on a 9-hole course.

Both games involve throwing a frisbee through a hole in the ground. However, there are slight differences between the two.

In traditional frisbee golf, players throw the frisbee overhand, while in disc golf, players throw the disc underhand.

Disc golf requires more skill than traditional frisbee golf. Players must aim the disc at the basket, which is usually about 30 feet away from the tee area.

Players can use their own discs or buy them at local stores.

#2. Swim

Swimming is another activity that you can enjoy on the beach near Sarasota. There are many different ways to swim on the beach near Sarasottawith each method offering its own benefits.

For example, swimming in the ocean allows seeing dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. Swimming in a lake offers the chance to see ducks, geese, and swans.

Swimming in a river offers the opportunity to see fish and frogs. And swimming in a pond offers the chance to see koi fish.

#3. Surf

Can you surf in Sarasota Florida? Yes, you can! Surfing is another way to spend time on the beach near Sarasota.

Surfing in Sarasota, Florida offers a mix of conditions suitable for surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans. While the Gulf Coast is generally not as well-known for big waves as some other surfing destinations, areas like Siesta Key and Venice Beach provide consistent surf with relatively calm waters—perfect for those learning the sport or looking to enjoy a laid-back session.

The sand-bottom beach breaks contribute to a safer surfing experience, and local surf shops offer lessons and rentals, making it easy for anyone to get into the water.

For those seeking more of a challenge, storm surges and wind swells can offer up bigger waves, particularly during hurricane season from June to November. Local surfers keep a keen eye on weather forecasts to catch these rare but thrilling conditions.

Furthermore, the surfing community in Sarasota is welcoming and vibrant, often seen gathering for events like surf competitions or beach clean-ups.

#4. Hike

Hiking is another fun thing to do on the beach close to Sarasota. Hiking is a form of exercise that allows people to explore nature.

Some hikers prefer to hike alone, while others prefer to hike with a group.

To hike, you need to plan. Make sure you know where you’re going before you start hiking.

Also, bring plenty of water and snacks. It’s important to stay hydrated and nourished during hikes.

#5. Bike Ride

Bicycling is another way to enjoy the beach near Sarasota. Bicycles offer a low-impact workout that doesn’t require much effort.

Bicycles are easy to ride, and they allow you to travel quickly. They are also great for getting around town.

#4. Snorkel

Snorkeling is another popular activity near the beach. There are many snorkeling sites along the coast near Sarasota.

Some of the most popular include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Siesta Key.

#5. Take Scuba Lessons

Scuba diving is another popular activity near Sarasota. There are many scuba diving sites near Sarasota.

What is Sarasota, Florida Known For?

Sarasota, Florida, is known for its beaches and beautiful weather. It’s also a great place to go if you want to learn about the Cuban culture since it used to be a Cuban city.

Sarasota, Florida, is known for its beaches and culture. The city hosts many events, including the Sarasota Film Festival and the Artsfest.

Sarasota, Florida, is known for its beaches and white sand, as well as its many art museums, cultural centers, and live music venues. It is a popular tourist destination all year round, and there is a thriving community of artists, musicians, writers, and thinkers.

Does Sarasota, Florida Have White Sand Beaches

Yes, Sarasota, Florida, is known for its white sand beaches. One of the reasons people come to visit Sarasota is its beautiful white sand beaches. The “white sand beach” is one of the most popular attractions in Sarasota.

Is Sarasota Beach Water Clear

Many people want to know if the water at Sarasota’s beaches is clear. The answer is usually yes, although there can be a lot of seaweed on the shoreline.

The most popular beach near Sarasota is Clearwater Beach, which was named America’s best beach by TripAdvisor in 2018. Clearwater Beach has crystal-clear water and powdery white sand.

Sarasota Is Known for Its White Sand Beaches

Sarasota is known for its white sand beaches. Lido Key and St Armands Circle are popular destinations, towns near Siesta Key Florida and it also has a strong historical presence in the arts.

Sarasota Is Home to Several Islands and Island Beaches

Sarasota is home to several islands and island beaches, including St. Armands Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key, Casey Key, Siesta Key, and North Captiva Island.

St. Armands Key is the most popular of Sarasota’s barrier islands and offers a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Lido Key has located just south of St. Armands key and has some of the best beaches in Sarasota.

Longboat key is located north of downtown Sarasota and is known for its excellent golf courses.

Casey Key is a small island located just south of Venice, Florida. It’s known for its secluded beaches and kayaking opportunities.

Siesta Key is probably the best-known beach in Sarasota, thanks to its soft white sand and crystal clear waters.

North Captiva Island is an island that shuns Miami’s manic pace. The beaches are full of shells and sea glass, perfect for just kicking back and reading a book.

Is Sanibel Island Near Sarasota

Yes, Sanibel Island is near Sarasota. It is located just off the coast of Fort Myers and can be accessed via a bridge. The island offers a range of activities for visitors, including shelling, birding, and biking.

Are There Any Public Beaches Near Sarasota, Florida?

Public beaches near Sarasota, Florida, are few and far between, but some good options exist for people to enjoy the water.

There are many public beaches near Sarasota, Florida. The closest public beach to Sarasota is Siesta Beach Park, a ten-minute drive from downtown Sarasota.

Yes, there are public beaches near Sarasota, Florida. The Siesta Key Beach Park offers a long stretch of white sand and plenty of picnic tables.

Lido Key

If you’re looking for a great beach near Sarasota, look no further than Lido Key. Lido Key is located near Longboat Key and Siesta Key – both amazing beaches in their own right. The Lido Beach is the larger of the three, with North and South Lido on the key. It has a beautiful, wide beachfront and is much less crowded than Siesta Beach – making it perfect for families. Lido Beach is easily accessible from St Armands Circle – one of Sarasota’s busiest shopping areas. And if that wasn’t enough, Lido Beach offers typical amenities such as restrooms and concessions. Finally, there’s also a 400-car parking lot, making it convenient for beachgoers.

Longboat Key

Longboat Key boasts 12 miles of shoreline and is the longest island on Sarasota’s beautiful coastline. It’s also one of the wealthiest, with a median household income of over $100,000. The key got its name from John Ringling, a fan of Italian culture who built his winter home on the island in 1923. These days, Longboat Key is known for its golf courses (there are four), tennis courts (27), and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and diving.

Sarasota, Florida, is a close enough destination to relocate to for those seeking an intimate community with plenty of amenities. The top small towns near Sarasota are Siesta Key, Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key, Arcadia, and Bradenton Beach. All these towns have unique characteristics but share one common trait—gorgeous beaches! Each town has at least one public beach where visitors can enjoy the sun and surf.

What Is the Best Beach in Sarasota?

The Best Beach in Sarasota Is the One that Provides the Most Options for Swimming, Sunbathing, and Water Activities.

Sarasota, Florida beaches include Siesta Key Beach, St Armand’s Circle East Beach, and Englewood Beach.

The best beach in Sarasota is on the west end of Longboat Key. It is a beautiful, attractive beach with a lot to do and see nearby. There are also several restaurants and bars nearby.

Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key Beach is one of Sarasota’s most beautiful and relaxing beaches. It has been named 1 in America’s Best Beaches by Dr. Beach, a yearly ranking. Siesta Key also has the same sand as Crescent Beach. It is highly rated by TripAdvisor, coming in at rank 11 on Travelocity’s list of USA beaches, with Crescent Beach ranking 10th on the list of best family beaches in the US. The key difference between Siesta Key and Crescent beach is that Siesta Key is more popular and can be more crowded than Crescent beach. However, it makes up for this with its 99% pure quartz sand, making it one of the most comfortable beaches. Suppose you’re looking for a quieter beach to relax at, head over to Turtle Beach, which is located on the North Shore of Siesta key or Comprised Siesta Beach, which is on the South Shore. Either way, you won’t be disappointed with your choice!

Longboat Key Beach

Longboat Key’s beaches are limited in size but close to the Gulf of Mexico. The island has 12 miles of shoreline, a popular beach for sea turtles to lay their eggs. Parking is limited, and parking signs are blue, so keep an eye out for them. No amenities such as restrooms on Longboat Key beaches can make it difficult to access when traveling with kids or dogs. Both Siesta Key and Anna Maria are small towns near Sarasota, Florida. Holmes Beach, Nokomis, Longboat Key, Arcadia, and Bradenton Beach are all recommended for travelers looking for a classic Old Florida small town.

Manasota Key Beach

Manasota Key Beach is worth a visit for nature lovers. It’s one of Sarasota’s most undeveloped barrier islands and has beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Blind Pass Beach offers all of the amenities of Manasota but is larger and quieter. If you’re looking for a beach with more activities available, Englewood and Stump Pass are state parks with easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, or swimming.

Final Thoughts    

So there you have it, beach towns near sarasota fl that you can go to while visiting this Florida beach town. I’ve covered the nearest beach towns, described them briefly, listed some beaches plus activities you can do, and took a detailed look into Sarasota and its many attractions and beaches. Keep these nearby beach towns in mind on your next trip to Sarasota. It will make for a pleasant day or weekend trip away from Sarasota.

Frequently Asked Questions‍

What makes Lido Beach a remarkable beach town near Sarasota, Florida?

Lido Beach, a top name in Sarasota County’s list of stunning beaches, is known for its fine, white sand and crystal-clear waters. Situated on Lido Key, this beach offers a rare combination of a peaceful environment and close proximity to the dining and shopping venues in downtown Sarasota. Its easy beach access, fantastic beach vibes, and awe-inspiring sunset views make it a favorite beach destination for many.

How does Venice Beach add to the beach vacation experience near Southwest Florida’s Sarasota area?

Venice Beach, often called ‘the shark tooth capital of the world’, is a unique beach within Sarasota County that offers an adventure in the form of shark tooth hunting. Known for its historic downtown area and a sprawling beach, it’s a small beach town that provides visitors with a relaxing and enriching beach vacation experience.

What makes Longboat Key an attractive beach town near Sarasota, Florida?

Longboat Key, surrounded by the azure waters of the Gulf and the bay of Sarasota, is a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility. This beach town near the Sarasota area features some of the best waterfront properties, stunning beaches, and a friendly community. Its pristine, quiet beaches offer ultimate relaxation.

Why should I consider a visit to Anna Maria Island near Sarasota?

Nestled on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Anna Maria Island is a quaint beach town known for its old Florida charm, sandy beaches, and beautiful sunsets. It has some of the best beaches in the U.S., including Manatee Public Beach, which is known for its facilities and family-friendly atmosphere. Moreover, the area beaches around Sarasota also offer a plethora of water activities like fishing and boating.

What’s special about Siesta Key Beach, one of the Sarasota beaches?

Siesta Key Beach, located in Sarasota Bay, is often ranked as one of the best beaches in the U.S. thanks to its strikingly white, fine quartz sand that remains cool even under the hot Florida sun. Besides sunbathing and swimming, visitors can also enjoy volleyball, tennis, and other activities. This beach is also applauded for its amazing sunsets and its close proximity to Siesta Village’s restaurants and shops.

Can you elaborate on the charm of Turtle Beach in the Sarasota area?

Turtle Beach on Siesta Key offers a more serene environment compared to its busier counterparts. This beach is also unique in the area for its offering of a campsite, making it great for a longer stay. It has picnic areas, a playground, and a boat launch, making it suitable for family holidays. Its quieter beach vibe and natural environment give visitors a refreshing experience.

How can one enjoy a visit to Caspersen Beach in the Sarasota area?

Caspersen Beach in the Sarasota area is another hot spot especially for those interested in beachcombing. Much of the beach is left in its natural state, providing beach lovers with a glimpse of how Florida’s coastlines looked centuries ago. Aside from being the top spot for finding prehistoric shark teeth, the beach also has a playground, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

What’s unique about Coquina Beach near Sarasota?

Located at the southernmost tip of Anna Maria Island near Sarasota, Coquina Beach is a haven for those desiring a tropical oasis. This beach area offers picturesque views with its clear water and fine sandy beaches. Besides being a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, its amenities such as a picnic area, multi-purpose trail, and concession stand, add to the enjoyment of visitors.

Can you tell me more about Brohard Beach in the Sarasota area?

Brohard Beach, the only dog-friendly beach in Sarasota County, is a fantastic place to visit for dog lovers. People come to enjoy the beach vibes and soak up the sun, while their pets can enjoy their own beach where they can run free. Located near Venice, this place also offers fishing decks and beautiful sunset views, making a visit worthwhile for everyone.

What is notable about the beach town Bradenton Beach near Sarasota?

Bradenton Beach is a small beach town on Anna Maria Island near Sarasota. This town offers a stunning beach with soft sand, clear water, and fewer crowds. Beyond the beaches, visitors can explore historic Bridge Street with its local boutiques and restaurants. It’s a great place for those looking for a laid-back beach vacation on the beautiful Florida’s Gulf Coast.