Things To Do
in Sarasota Springs

Sarasota Springs is a charming community in Florida known for its lush landscapes and vibrant artistic scene. Situated near the Gulf Coast, it offers easy access to beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. The area is rich in history and culture, featuring numerous galleries, theaters, and festivals that celebrate local talent.

With a welcoming atmosphere and year-round sunshine, Sarasota Springs is an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Myakka River State Park, where you can enjoy bird watching and hiking.

afternoon
:

Head over to the Ringling Museum of Art to explore the impressive collection and beautiful gardens.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant, savoring fresh catch while watching the sunset over the Gulf.

day 2
Day 2: Local Flavors and Leisure
morning
:

Start with breakfast at a cozy café in downtown Sarasota, followed by a stroll through the farmer's market.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Siesta Key Beach, relaxing and soaking up the sun.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local bar for live music and craft cocktails.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$15
Coffee$4
🍔Burger Meal$12
🍽️Restaurant Dinner$25
🏨Hotel Night$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural scene with art and music
  • Mild climate year-round
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Higher prices for accommodations
  • Humidity in summer may be uncomfortable for some

Places to Visit in Sarasota Springs

Visit one of these nice places.

Siesta Key Beach

Famous for its powdery white sand and stunning sunsets, it's a perfect spot for beach photography.

Ringling Museum of Art

The beautiful architecture and lush gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for photos.

Myakka River State Park

With its diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes, this park offers countless opportunities for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sarasota Springs

Sarasota Springs offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring a blend of fresh seafood, Southern cuisine, and international flavors.

Sarasota Springs Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grouper Sandwich

A local favorite, this sandwich is made with fresh grouper fillet, fried or grilled, served on a bun with tartar sauce.

Must-Try!

Key Lime Pie

A must-try dessert, this pie is made with fresh key lime juice and has a creamy texture, perfect for a sweet finish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sarasota Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sarasota Springs has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (27-34°C), while winter temperatures generally range from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (13-24°C). Rainfall is common during the summer months, but winters are typically dry and pleasant.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents value politeness; greetings and smiles go a long way.

Beach Etiquette

Respect others' space and clean up after yourself when at the beach.

Dress Code

Casual attire is common, but some upscale restaurants may require smart casual dress.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sarasota Springs is generally safe for visitors, but it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Keep personal belongings secure, especially in crowded places, and consider using a lock for bicycles when exploring the area.

Tipping in Sarasota Springs

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

It is customary to tip service workers between 15-20% in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but cash is handy for local markets and smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, flowers bloom, and it's a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rain, perfect for beach trips but stay hydrated.

Autumn

Temperatures begin to cool down, making it ideal for hiking and exploring local parks.

Winter

Mild temperatures attract many tourists; enjoy outdoor events and holiday festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Sarasota Springs at Night

Sarasota Springs boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with a mix of bars, live music venues, and theaters. You can find everything from laid-back pubs to upscale lounges, often featuring local bands and DJs. The downtown area comes alive at night, with many places offering outdoor seating where you can enjoy the warm Florida evenings.

Hiking in Sarasota Springs

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Myakka River State Park Trails

Featuring several trails that wind through wetlands and forests, this park offers a scenic hiking experience.

Legacy Trail

A paved trail that stretches for 10.6 miles, ideal for walking, running, and biking, showcasing beautiful landscapes along the way.

Airports

How to reach Sarasota Springs by plane.

Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)

Located about 5 miles from Sarasota Springs, this airport offers domestic flights and is the primary gateway for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sarasota Springs is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the city promotes pedestrian-friendly initiatives, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Retirees

Sarasota Springs has a significant population of retirees who enjoy the area's warm climate and recreational activities.

Young Families

The area is attractive to young families due to its good schools, parks, and family-friendly activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Spring training for several Major League Baseball teams takes place in the area, attracting many fans.

Golf

With numerous golf courses available, golf is a popular pastime among residents and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sarasota Springs can get congested, especially during peak tourist seasons. Public transportation options include buses, and ride-sharing services are also available. It's advisable to plan your travels accordingly, particularly during rush hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sarasota Springs.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian meals, but it's advisable to check menus beforehand.

Gluten-Free Meals

Gluten-free options are available in various eateries; just inform your server of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Sarasota Springs is good, with several hospitals and clinics in the area providing quality medical services. Emergency services are available, and many healthcare providers accept various insurance plans. It's advisable to have travel insurance or a plan for medical emergencies.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide