There’s a reason so many people say Sarasota beaches are beautiful. They are! If you’re on the hunt for the best Sarasota beaches, you’re in the right place.
Located along the picturesque coastline of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sarasota is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. With brilliant white sand and crystal clear waters, every single beach in Sarasota offers a memorable experience for visitors and locals alike. Check out our top picks for the best Sarasota beaches — and our favorite beaches in the surrounding areas.
Siesta Key Beach
In the way of the best Sarasota beaches, this one tops the list. There’s a reason Siesta Key is consistently named one of the top beaches worldwide. The 99 percent quartz white sand and crystal clear waters make it one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
But that’s not all. Visitors and locals flock to Siesta Key for its unforgettable vibe. You can find tiki bars with live music, amazing outdoor restaurants and adorable shops. It’s also one the best places in the area to play beach volleyball.
Tip: Check out the Captain Curt’s Sneaky for great outdoor live music. And kids love taking a ride on the free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley.
Lido Key Beach
Just a quick drive from downtown Sarasota, Lido Key Beach offers a picturesque setting with a more low-key vibe than Siesta Key. It’s the perfect place to take kids, as it has a lifeguard. In addition, it has a really fun pool. Older kids can go back-and-forth between the pool and the beach. It’s also very close to St. Armands Circle, which is a great option for lunch.
Tip: For a private beach feel, check out the first access point right after St. Armands Circle. This is the favorite beach of many locals. Please note that there are no lifeguards or restrooms at this access point.
Longboat Key Beach
Longboat Key is absolutely beautiful. That said, Longboat Key’s beach does not have amenities or a lifeguard. If you’re going to choose this beach, be aware that there is not much parking. It’s a great place to go to get away from crowds, but probably not the best choice for families.
Tip: For adults, consider lunch at Drydock followed by a stroll on the beach.
Turtle Beach
When we say Sarasota beaches are beautiful, we’re not exaggerating. Turtle Beach is truly one of the best Sarasota beaches. Named for its sea turtle nesting habitat, Turtle Beach is a beautiful, secluded beach on Siesta Key. Not only does it offer nearby boating and fishing opportunities, it has a horseshoe pit. And Turtle Beach Campground is the perfect place to gaze at the stars on an overnight adventure.
Crescent Beach
Also located on Siesta Key, Crescent Beach is a hidden gem that extends from Siesta Beach down to the Point of Rocks. It boasts the same crystal clear waters and white quartz sand as other beaches on Siesta Key, but with fewer crowds. This is the beach where you would go to read a book under an umbrella. It’s usually pretty tranquil.
Coquina Beach
Located on the southern tip of Anna Maria Island, the scenery at Coquina Beach is like none other. It’s a favorite amongst locals who live in Bradenton. One of the highlights of Coquina Beach is its stunning coastline, which stretches for miles along the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can stroll along the beach and take in the views. Additionally, this beach offers picnic areas, restrooms and tons of parking, making it a top choice for families.
Ana Maria Island
Sarasota beaches are beautiful, but so are the white sands of the surrounding areas. Just a short drive from Sarasota, Anna Maria Island is a world all its own. Visitors love cruising around on golf carts and taking in the small-town feel and laid back vibe. The brightly colored condos and homes add a playful feel. In addition, Anna Maria Island is known for its famous restaurants, such as Sandbar. This favorite lunch stop is located right on the beach and offers a beautiful view of the area’s famed turquoise waters and beautiful white sand.
Tip: Be sure to check out Anna Maria City Pier. Mote Aquarium has a satellite location on the pier, and the views at the end of the pier are breathtaking.
Enjoy the Best Sarasota Beaches — Sarasota Beaches Are Beautiful
No matter which seaside location you choose in Sarasota, you’re sure to be wowed by the picturesque beauty and tranquility of Florida’s Gulf Coast. So pack up your sunscreen and beach towel and get ready to experience beautiful Sarasota, Florida, where you’ll find some of the best beaches in the world.
And do we need to say it again? Sarasota beaches are beautiful! Just look.
