Best Sarasota Beaches: Best Beaches Within an Hour of Sarasota
With the best Sarasota beaches, living in this Florida haven is like being on vacation every day. Situated along 40 miles of stunning coastline and six breathtaking barrier islands, you can catch some rays and enjoy the beach vibe year-round at some of the best beaches near Sarasota, FL. So slip into some flip-flops, grab a towel, and come take in the beauty at one (or all) of our favorite iconic Sarasota beaches.
Summary:
- Best Sarasota Beaches Overall
- White Sand Beaches in Sarasota
- Best Beaches in Sarasota for Shells
- Best Public Beaches in Sarasota, Florida
- Quiet Beaches Near Sarasota
Best Sarasota Beaches Overall
Sarasota's coast is a miles-long string of gorgeous beaches, each offering a unique look and experience. From powdery white sands to family-friendly hot spots and even some secluded slices of paradise, these Sarasota beaches reflect the variety this Gulf Coast city offers. We've found the best Sarasota beaches overall, with ideal locations, top amenities, and of course, pristine waters and sand.
Siesta Key
Locals to out-of-towners recognize Siesta Key as the best beach in Sarasota, FL. This eight-mile island boasts three picturesque beaches, including the magnificent Siesta Beach, featuring its iconic quartz sand so soft it's like powdered sugar. This paradise offers all you need and is perfect for an unforgettable day of relaxation. It has restrooms, playgrounds, and even concessions and rentals to make your experience truly magical.
Lido Beach
With its family-friendly atmosphere, Lido Beach is an ideal retreat for those wanting to escape the crowds of nearby Siesta Key. It's only a mile from Sarasota and the St. Armands Circle shopping center. This heavenly beach spans over one mile of coastline and has all the amenities: restrooms, showers, concessions, and more. They also offer rentals on your favorite beach accessories. And if wading in saltwater isn’t quite in your wheelhouse, there's also an accessible community swimming pool sure to make this getaway complete.
Caspersen Beach
Caspersen Beach is a nature lover’s delight. You can stroll or bike the Venetian Waterway Trail to get there from downtown, making it very convenient. Here, you can spot some incredible things like beautiful birds or precious sea turtle eggs. However, what makes this beach special is its designation as the “Shark’s Tooth Capital of The World.” With patience, luck, and a good eye, your visit might result in an unforgettable souvenir. To top it all off, traditional amenities, such as parking areas and picnic shelters, are available for visitors looking for a lovely day trip away from the bustling Sarasota city center.
White Sand Beaches in Sarasota
Sarasota’s white sand beaches make it a top destination for travelers seeking sun and surf with a luxurious touch. Whether you're a resident or visiting this Gulf Coast city, these stunning beaches offer an idyllic view for all. Let's explore some of the most captivating white sand beaches in Sarasota, Florida.
Lido Key Public Beach
Public Beach at Lido Key is one of the top beaches in Sarasota. This family-friendly destination provides ample parking, clean facilities, and a charming pavilion for picnics. Wade in the crystal clear waters, build sandcastles with the little ones, or visit the vibrant arts scene nearby. Plus, be sure to stick around and experience the stunning sunsets that paint the skies in hues of orange and pink.
Indian Beach
Indian Beach is a hidden gem that offers a more peaceful and secluded beach experience. It’s a romantic haven, perfect for young couples or those who wish to savor each other's company and the unspoiled beauty of Sarasota's coast. Here, you can unwind with your loved one, appreciating the calm scenery and the untouched beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. Stroll hand in hand along the shoreline, collecting seashells as the waves gently lap at your feet.
Siesta Key
Siesta Key and its beaches consistently rank as one of the world's top beaches, and once you visit, it's easy to see why. Its powdery, cool-to-the-touch quartz sand is unlike anything you've ever experienced, making it an ideal spot for children and adults. The family-friendly atmosphere is contagious, and you'll soon be making new friends. The beach boasts top-notch amenities, including playgrounds, volleyball courts, and an array of restaurants and shops, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable day in the sun.
Crescent Beach
For those seeking a more intimate beach experience, Crescent Beach on Siesta Key offers a peaceful and welcoming setting. Its curved coastline provides a gentle and sheltered environment, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. This Sarasota white sand beach is an excellent option for couples and families looking to escape the crowds and unwind in a less populated part of paradise. Roam the charming village of Siesta Key, where you can enjoy dining, shopping, and lively entertainment just a stone's throw away from the serene shoreline.
Best Beaches in Sarasota for Shells
For those who collect treasures from the sea, Sarasota offers long stretches of shorelines full of beautiful seashells. Whether you've got an eye for nature's wonders or a taste for beachcombing, these beautiful beaches are the ideal canvas for your treasure-hunting adventures and offer some of the best shelling in Sarasota, FL.
Coquina Beach
Seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Coquina Beach is calling your name. Located at the southern end of Anna Maria Island in Sarasota, this beach offers free parking, room to spread out or roam, and amenities like an inviting café. It’s also a spot frequented by sea turtles who come to lay their eggs on the sandy, white shores. That makes it an ideal location if you love collecting seashells or just want some time among nature within a reasonable distance. Coquina Beach is perfect for getting away without going too far, and one of the best beaches in Sarasota for shells.
Cortez Beach
Cortez Beach, located near Bradenton's Coquina Beach, is one of the best shelling beaches near Sarasota. As you stroll along the shore, you'll discover a stunning array, from delicate coquinas to intricate tulip shells. This family-friendly beach lets little ones collect these natural gems while learning about the marine life that resides in the Gulf. Make it a day of exploration, picnicking, and creating lifelong memories as you scour the sands for exquisite seashells.
Nokomis Public Beach
Nokomis Public Beach, close to Venice’s "Shark Tooth Capital of the World," is a must-visit destination for shell hunters and fossil enthusiasts. While searching for shells, look for prehistoric shark teeth that wash ashore. These intriguing relics offer a unique glimpse into the past and make fantastic souvenirs. This Sarasota shelling beach provides ample opportunities for family bonding, with covered picnic areas, playgrounds, and volleyball courts. It's a fascinating mix of natural wonders and recreational fun for all ages.
Jetty Beach
Jetty Beach is a hidden gem on the southern tip of Casey Key, and makes for some of the best shelling near Sarasota, FL. With its breathtaking scenery and abundant seashells, it's an excellent choice for those who cherish the serene beauty of the Gulf. Walk the coastline, searching for colorful shells, and take in the spectacular views of the nearby jetties and turquoise waters. Jetty Beach offers a more secluded beachcombing experience, a chance to escape the crowds, and all the beauty you desire.
Best Public Beaches in Sarasota, Florida
Sarasota is renowned for its public beaches that blend natural beauty, family-friendly amenities, and an active atmosphere. Whether you're up for family fun, a couple looking for a sun-soaked getaway, or empty nesters seeking some well-deserved relaxation, these public beaches are perfect for everyone.
Brohard Beach
If you're planning a trip to Sarasota with your pup, then Brohard Beach and Paw Park is a canine-friendly destination with sparkling blue waters and all the necessary amenities. Let your four-legged friends take a dip while you enjoy breathtaking views. With fenced-in play yards, doggie fountains, leash posts, and dog showers galore, there's no shortage of space or safety measures at this exciting spot for both pups and their people alike, making it one of the best public beaches in Sarasota, Florida.
Siesta Key
Siesta Key Beach, with powdery white sand and azure waters, is arguably one of the best public beaches in Sarasota. Its family-friendly environment makes it an ideal destination for those with kids, offering a range of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and volleyball courts. You can also enjoy water sports, explore the nearby village, or simply lay back and soak in the sun's warmth. Siesta Key Beach promises a quintessential Sarasota experience that people of all ages can relish.
Manatee Beach
Manatee Beach on Anna Maria Island is a lively, family-oriented destination that combines sun, sand, and endless fun. With a striking backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico, this beach boasts amenities like a playground, picnic areas, and even a café for a quick snack. Children can build sandcastles, parents can relax by the water, and everyone can splash in the gentle waves.
Anna Maria Beach
Anna Maria Beach, also on Anna Maria Island, is a hidden gem that beckons to couples of all ages. This pristine beach offers a more tranquil atmosphere, where you can relax in the beauty of the Gulf without the bustling crowds. Take a leisurely walk along the sand, enjoy a beachfront picnic, or swim in the crystal clear waters. Anna Maria Beach provides an intimate setting for couples and those seeking a serene escape from the daily grind.
Quiet Beaches Near Sarasota
If you're seeking peaceful, lesser-known (and lesser-populated) beaches, we’ve got some of the best secluded beaches in Sarasota, all within an hour of the city. These hidden spots may not be widely popular, but they certainly don't lack charm or natural beauty. Ideal for those who seek more sequestered shores, here are some of the best quiet beaches near Sarasota.
Blind Pass Beach
Blind Pass Beach, located on Manasota Key, offers seclusion and natural beauty in spades. Its tranquil, less crowded atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to escape the hum of city life. Featuring a unique blend of lush coastal greenery and untouched shoreline, Blind Pass Beach creates a serene setting for a leisurely day by the water. It’s one of the best secluded beaches in Sarasota and a wonderful getaway for nature lovers and couples looking for a quiet retreat.
Manasota Beach
Manasota Beach on Manasota Key is a hidden treasure for those who appreciate a quieter beach experience. Its isolation is its charm, and you'll find yourself undisturbed as you wander along the coastline, looking for unique shells and enjoying the sound of the waves. This lesser-known gem provides a more intimate beach experience and is perfect for couples seeking a serene and romantic getaway.
Turtle Beach
Turtle Beach on Siesta Key may not be as famous as its neighbor, Siesta Beach, but its peaceful ambiance sets it apart. Here, you can enjoy a tranquil day of sunbathing and beachcombing without large crowds. The beach’s relaxed vibe makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic and the soothing sound of the Gulf waves. Turtle Beach is an excellent choice for those who want to escape the crowds while remaining within easy reach of Sarasota, making it one of the best quiet beaches near Sarasota.
Palmer Point Beach
Palmer Point Beach is a hidden gem located along Little Sarasota Bay that offers a unique waterfront experience. This lesser-known beach provides a serene escape for those who prefer the quieter calm and beauty of bay waters. It's a fantastic place to kayak, paddleboard, or simply relax. This coastal retreat is a favorite for couples and empty nesters, and our list of best Sarasota beaches would be incomplete without it.
New Construction Homes Near Best Sarasota Beaches
Sarasota’s breathtaking beaches and vibrant coastal lifestyle make it the perfect backdrop for those seeking to live near the sun, sand, and surf. Whether you're a growing family, a young couple, or retirees looking for your slice of paradise, these new construction homes in Sarasota provide the ideal blend of proximity to the beach and amenities that support the beach vibe and relaxation you crave.
- Magnolia Ranch: Close to award-winning Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, and Lido and Siesta Key beaches, this intimate gated community is an excellent location for beachgoers. Homes here also come with the option of a state-of-the-art indoor/outdoor pool, perfect for stay-at-home swim days.
- Sapphire Point at Lakewood Ranch: With easy access to the Gulf Coast, you're just minutes away from the captivating Siesta Beach. Unwind by the water or enjoy a beachside picnic with the family. The community's beach-inspired amenities include the resort-style neighborhood pool, community dog park, playground with a covered pavilion, fire pit, and basketball court. You’ll enjoy a relaxed, vacation state of mind every day.
- Avanti at Waterside: Just a short drive from renowned Lido Beach, you can live in the lap of coastal luxury. Nestled around a sparkling 146-acre lake, you can get beachfront views right outside your door. For those who appreciate easy beach access, Avanti at Waterside is one of the communities closest to all of Sarasota’s best beaches.
- Shoreview at Lakewood Ranch Waterside: Indulge in the ideal fusion of a waterfront lifestyle and beach proximity. Living here means you're just a short distance from the powdery sands of Siesta Beach. Relax on warm, sandy shores and return home to enjoy vacation-inspired amenities like a heated resort-style pool and spa, kayak launch, outdoor bar and BBQ grills, tennis and pickleball courts, and a fire pit.
- Legacy Groves: Embrace coastal living near Sarasota's beautiful beaches. Located near the Gulf Coast, Legacy Groves offers easy access to the sun and sand of Siesta Beach. You also get beach-themed amenities, with a community pool and pool cabanas that ensure every day feels like a beachside getaway.
- Lakespur at Wellen Park: Enjoy a coastal lifestyle and a short drive to Sarasota's exquisite beaches. With easy access to the Gulf Coast, you can regularly visit the nearest beach to soak up the sun and surf. Lakespur at Wellen Park has a resort-style pool and fire pit lounge, creating a perpetual and relaxing beach vibe.
- Arbor Oaks: Nestled near the Gulf Coast, Arbor Oaks makes beach living a reality, offering a quick escape to sun-soaked shores. Soak up the sun at the resort-style pool, barefoot bar, or fire pit grill. This community exudes a relaxing coastal atmosphere, making it feel like a permanent vacation.
Conclusion
In summary, Sarasota is an amazing place if you’re looking to live near some of the best beaches. With so many white sand beaches, you'll have no shortage of chances to collect shells or take beautiful photographs. Public beaches like Siesta Beach and Turtle Beach are great for larger groups while quieter spots like Blind Pass Beach provide the perfect backdrop for a secluded morning or evening stroll.
Whatever type of beach experience you're looking for, you can find it in Sarasota. Make your dreams come true and seize your chance to soak up the sun by the turquoise waters of these incredible coasts - all without ever leaving sunny Florida. The best neighborhoods in Sarasota may be the perfect fit for you.
Explore new construction homes in Sarasota today or browse more Pulte blogs.
Written By: Jordan Thomson, Orange County-based Freelance Writer
Last Updated: 1/17/2024