Welcome, to Sarasota, the perfect spot for a family day out! Situated on the Gulf Coast of Florida Sarasota offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and endless entertainment choices that will enchant visitors of all ages. Whether you’re in search of adventures, opportunities or simply some quality bonding time with your family Sarasota has something for everyone.
One of the standout features of Sarasota is its beaches. With sands and clear turquoise waters, these beaches offer an ideal backdrop for a day filled with sun, sand, and relaxation. Take a swim in the ocean or simply soak up the warm Florida sun while enjoying a picnic with your loved ones.
A tour we think you'll love
So pack your bags gather your family members and prepare to make memories in this captivating paradise.
1) Relax On One Of The Stunning Beaches
Soaking up the sun, letting the kids build a giant sandcastle, playing volleyball, simply relaxing, or visiting the beaches are some of the many fun things to do in Sarasota. Beaches offer a more relaxed setting and give the children the perfect spot to just be kids and explore the world around them.
Take a pick from some of these beautiful beaches:
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Siesta Key Beach: This beach offers powdery white sand and calm waters, the perfect spot for building sandcastles and splashing in shallow water.
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Longboat Key: Longboat Key is a barrier island that offers some of the most beautiful beaches as well as many walking and biking paths to sightsee for some exotic animals and marine life.
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Lido Key Beach: If you’re looking for a more vibrant atmosphere, Lido Key Beach is close to shops and restaurants, yet offers calm waters that are a great spot for younger kids.
You can book one of our preplanned boat tours that give you the options to soak up the sun at the beach or sandbar, dine at some of the best waterfront restaurants, bask in the glory of nature and some of the Gulf Coast’s most remote islands, or book for a full day and plan the itinerary to fit your needs. So come on over and book your tour today!
2) Discover Sarasota’s Rich History And Art
The Sarasota area has an amazing and rich history and art scene. Did you know that the Ringling family (yes, the circus one) played a large role in turning the Sarasota area into the resort town it is today? They invested greatly in real estate by using the area as the winter home for the circus.
Don’t be afraid to immerse yourself in their story by visiting the circus museum:
The Ringling
Explore the Ringling Museum, located in downtown Sarasota, which includes the Ringling Museum of Art and the ca’ d’Zan mansion. Here you can learn about the fascinating life of John Ringling and take in the beauty of his vast artwork collection. Kids and parents alike will enjoy the interactive circus museum and dive deep into its history.
Sarasota Art Museum
This art museum operating under the Ringling umbrella so to speak, is a contemporary art museum that hosts sculptures, performance programming, an auditorium, and a Bistro Cafe. All are hosted in downtown Sarasota in the former Sarasota High School.
3) Discover The Natural Beauty Of Sarasota County
Nature lovers who are looking for things to do in Sarasota with kids, will not be disappointed. Nature walks, biking trails, kayaking, and lots of marine life are all easily available in the Sarasota area.
Get in touch with nature by visiting these Sarasota attractions:
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Myakka River State Park: Go on a kayaking adventure and explore the lush mangroves and unique plants, while observing diverse birdlife.
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Marie Selby Botanical Gardens: If you’re looking for a more traditional botanical garden experience, head over to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and take a stroll through their lush green gardens boasting vibrant blooms.
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Sarasota Jungle Gardens: Looking for a not-so-traditional garden experience? You’ve found it. At Sarasota Jungle Gardens you will find more exotic animals and a fun atmosphere where the kids can take delight in feeding the flamingos.
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Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium: Get up close with some of the most fascinating marine life. Here the kids will captivated by the exciting exhibits and touch tanks where they will learn about the importance of marine conservation.
4) Explore Siesta Key
There are many reasons to love Siesta Key, hence its own spot. Siesta Key is an 8-mile-long barrier island just across the bridge from Sarasota. Here you will find Crescent Beach the most stunning quartz-sand beach and relaxing spot.
If you’re looking for adventure while out at Siesta Key, there are many options:
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Parasailing: Looking to try something new? Maybe you have older children who are a bit past the splash pad phase.
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Rent bikes: Rent some bikes and take a tour of the beautiful coastline. Soak up the scenery and get a little exercise along the way.
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Siesta Key Drum Circle: If you’re looking for a cultural experience then head on over to the drum circle and immerse yourself in popular tradition with a festival-like atmosphere.
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Relax on the beach: Of course, you need to take the opportunity to relax on the stunning beach.
5) Shopping, Shopping, Shopping
The delights of shopping. Who doesn’t love finding unique souvenirs, and fresh produce?
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St. Armands Circle: Boasting over 100 stores you are sure to find something that fits your taste. Explore the shops and grab a bite to eat on the sidewalk cafes, or stroll through the tropical gardens.
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Sarasota Farmers Market: If you are looking for some fresh local produce or handmade crafts, the farmer’s market is where you want to be. Find them every Saturday from 7 am – 1 pm in downtown Sarasota.
Explore Sarasota’s Hidden Gems On A Captivating Boat Tour
Whether you decide to head downtown, explore the nature around you, or indulge in delicious cuisine, Sarasota is a great place for a family vacation. Plan your trip and tour the Gulf Coast with us at Sarasota Coastal Boat Tours.
Our tours range from 2 hours to full 6-hour tours with options to watch the sunset, tour local eateries, snorkel, or catch some amazing views of the dolphins. Whatever you choose, the family is sure to love it. Our captain was born and raised here, which means you are certain to have the most extensive tour of Sarasota.
Join us for an unforgettable boat tour – reserve your spot today!
