Sarasota Activities, Attractions, Tours, Museums, Shows, Beaches, and Other Events
Beaches
BEACHES
Siesta Key Beach
Ranked as One of the Best Beaches in the US and the World
(Soft, White, Powdery Sand)
(99% Pure Quartz!)
(Clear, Calm Waters)
THINGS TO DO
VIATOR E-Bike Rental
BIKE & KAYAK RENTALS
RIDE & PADDLE BY SIESTA KEY RENTAL
Siesta Key’s most convenient Bike, E-bike, kayak, and beach gear rental service.
Book your bikes, kayaks, and all online.
The most FUN you can legally have on Siesta Key! Robin Hood Rentals is the place for all your
Siesta Key rental needs. Not only do we have a wide variety of Golf Carts, Scooters, Scoot Coupes,
Bicycles, Paddle Boards, Kayaks, and more!
Discover Sarasota Tours offers fun, entertaining, interactive, and informative air-conditioned
trolley tours of the most interesting places and stories that shaped our community’s rich cultural past.
If you are looking for a fun activity, look no further! Check out all the theme tours to see which one captures your area of interest!
RESTAURANTS
SIESTA KEY OYSTER BAR (SKOB)
The “SKOB,” as the locals know it, has a laid-back, beachy feeling that will get you right into the “Island Spirit” you seek when visiting Siesta Key. SKOB has an expansive menu that offers award-winning wings and mouthwatering burgers. All produce is locally sourced, pesticide-free, and sustainably grown.
VILLAGE CAFÉ
Village Café is a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike. It is a family-owned, casual café with a Full Breakfast and Lunch Menu all day. This café is open from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Welcome to Village Cafe!
GILLIGAN'S ISLAND BAR & GRILL
Siesta Key’s Live entertainment destination…Gilligan's Tiki Bar! Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Siesta Key’s favorite tropical escape, where every moment feels like a vacation. Step into a world of vibrant energy and tropical delights at Gilligan’s Island Bar, where the island spirit comes alive with every sip and bite. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this tiki bar offers an unforgettable escape filled with refreshing cocktails, mouthwatering dishes, and the best live entertainment on Siesta Key. Don’t miss out on the ultimate island experience!
SIESTA KEY SUMMER HOUSE STEAK AND SEAFOOD
The name is synonymous with Siesta Key, with a rich history of creating memorable experiences. The new Siesta Key Summer House Steak and Seafood will pay homage to creating great experiences with a brand new concept. Siesta Key Summer House Steak and Seafood is a must-visit for everyone who lives or vacations on Siesta Key. The menu is extensive, with something for everyone.
CAPTAIN CURT’S SIESTA KEY SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
Captain Curt’s Crab & Oyster Bar is among the best Siesta Key seafood restaurants along the Florida Gulf. If you’re looking for fresh fish, tasty appetizers, and mouthwatering entrees, Captain Curt’s is your go-to option. First, the food is fantastic, and a blend of freshly caught Gulf fish, fried seafood, and non-seafood items are offered. The cocktail menu is extensive, so have a drink or two while you eat. We’re also very family-friendly, with dishes that cater to everyone of any age. We also host live music on most nights, providing extra entertainment with your meal. If you want a fantastic dining experience, come to Captain Curt’s Crab & Oyster Bar. YOU CAN ALSO RENT BICYCLES AND KAYAKS!
SHOPPING
SANDAL FACTORY
Looking for the largest available selection of major sandal brands? Look no further than Sandal Factory, which is open 7 days a week. Choose from brands like Teva, Merrell, Reef, Sperry, Clarks, Quiksilver, Roxy, Billabong, Sanuk, Guy Harvey, Mephisto, Birkenstock, and more. You can also find top-notch surf apparel like Rip Curl, Columbia, Under Armour, hats, sunglasses, beach gear, souvenirs, and more. From boating to hiking to exploring the beach or just lounging by the pool, you’ll find all you need to enjoy unlimited fun in the sun, in comfort and quality.
BEACH BAZAAR OF SARASOTA
Located in the heart of Siesta Key Village, Beach Bazaar is your one-stop shop for all beach and vacation needs. You can find swimwear by Kenneth Cole, Maxine, and Body Glove. Looking for sunglasses, we offer Reef, Costa, and Native sunglasses. You can also find sandals by Reef, Sanuk, and Pali. Looking for “Floridafied” merchandise and Siesta Key vacation souvenirs? Well, the Beach Bazar will have anything you're looking for. Beach Bazaar is Siesta Key's beach superstore.
Lido Beach
(Long Stretch of Pristine White Sand and Grassy Dunes)
(Year-round Lifeguards)
Longboat Key Beach
(Private, less Crowded)
Gorgeous Miles of Coastline
as
Far as the Eye Can See
Venice Beach
(Great Beaching!)
ACTIVITIES, ATTRACTIONS, TOURS, MUSEUMS, SHOWS, AND OTHER EVENTS
ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS
Kayaking with Manatees
( Only for the Brave at Heart)
Kayaking with Dolphins
Just Kayaking
Ringling Brothers Circus Museum
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Ca'd'Zan Estate (Life in the Roaring Twenties)
Shopping
St. Armands Circle
St. Armands Circle is next to Lido Beach in Sarasota and offers a green space for relaxation, with a nearby path directly to the beach. The “Circle,” known amongst the locals, is an upscale location that offers a mix of attractions, including the Circus Ring of Fame, a statue walk with works purchased initially by John Ringling, and numerous shops, restaurants, and art galleries. It's a popular destination for fine shopping, dining, and leisurely strolls, with a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. The “Circle” is a very exciting spot and often hosts various special events throughout the year, including art festivals, sidewalk sales, and holiday celebrations.
St. Armands Circle boasts a variety of boutiques, specialty shops, and art galleries--Shopping Favorites
Crazy Shirt:
Men's, women's, and children's apparel and accessories with Crazy Shirts designs.
Destination Florida
Apparel for adults and children, gifts, and home décor
Breezin' Up
Comfortable, durable men's, women's, and children's clothing inspired by the beach.
Beach House Sarasota
Extensive collection of beach and coastal-themed décor, apparel, and gifts.
Binjara Traders
A global shopping experience that includes clothing, jewelry, and accessories for all ages.
Given Tree Gallery
A family-owned contemporary gift shop gallery featuring extensive collections of award-winning
jewelry designers and American artisans.
Spice and Tea Exchange
This is a food store that specializes in hundreds of savory and exotic spices, gourmet teas, and
flavor-infused sugars, and exotic salts from around the globe.
Wyland Galleries
A fun and energetic team with a mission to enhance your life and beautify your office environment.
St Armands Antiques & Gifts
The available merchandise includes antiques, collectibles, unusual and decorative items,
vintage and unique handbags, and jewelry.
St. Armand's DINING
The Circle offers numerous restaurants and cafes serving diverse cuisines, from Spanish/Cuban to Italian
Columbia Restaurant
A well-known establishment serving its signature Spanish Cuban cuisine.
Cha Cha Coconuts
It's a fantastic spot to let your hair down. You can dine in the pub or sit outside and enjoy the ambiance
that St. Armands Circle offers while watching the many tourists and locals.
Ricos Italian and Pizzeria
Great local restaurant that has a fantastic taste of Italy.
The Blue Dolphin Café
Intimate and fun. Freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, and specials are served daily and prepared
by our Culinary Institute graduates.
Tommy Bahamas
Island vibes and stunning sunset views from its second-story dining room.
This is the place to go to treat yourself to fresh, island-inspired fare and cocktails.
Kilwins-Sarasota
A place where you can satisfy your sweet tooth. With high-quality products, in-store craftsmanship,
and genuinely friendly team members, a visit to Kilwins provides an authentic sensory and taste
experience like none other.
(MAY BE TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO WEATHER--CHECK FIRST)
River Street Sweets
Southern-cooked confections such as the world-famous pralines, saltwater taffy, chocolates,
caramel apples, ice cream, and gelato.
Settimi’s Gelato
Offers quality-made gelatos in various flavors, and you can also get sugar-free gelatos!
Ellenton Premium Outlets
(over 130 Outlet Store)
The Mall at University Town Center (UTC)
The Shoppes at University Center
Westfield Sarasota Square
Crossings at Siesta Key
The Arts
Numerous Museums & Art Galleries
Cultural
Tours
Family-Guided Tours through Newtown & the Former Hardy Streets & Churches
A Variety of Culinary Tours!
Downtown Sarasota Street Food Tour 2 Hours
Classes
Parasailing Adventure
SHOWS & DINNER THEATERS
Murder Mystery Trolley: Who Killed The Circus Queen?
Arts & Culture Scene Nightlife
FLAVORINGS OF RESTAURANTS
RESTAURANTS