Is Sarasota worth visiting?
Yes, you'll find numerous reasons to visit Sarasota, and it's a city that everyone should see. We had an amazing time here.
Whether you're a traveling as a family or a couple, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the great museums and attractions and amazing food.
Sarasota is located south of Tampa in Florida. It has many great beaches, the Mote Marine Lab, and a museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus. While it's often overlooked by visitors to Florida, this makes a fun vacation destination for people of all ages.
Sarasota, Florida
6 Reasons to Visit Sarasota
1. Museums and Attractions
There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.
2. Food
You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.
3. Nightlife
You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.
4. Resorts
You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.
5. Beaches
There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.
6. Shopping
Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.
Is Sarasota worth visiting in the Summer?
The weather in Sarasota is fairly warm during summer, and stays around 28°C (82°F). But it can get as warm as 32°C (89°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.
Summer is the shoulder season for travel in Sarasota, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you can still find plenty of crowds, but better prices.
This is a great time of year to relax at the beach, browse the museums, and enjoy the amenities of a resort. Also, you can experience the nightlife.
Summer Weather in Sarasota
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 28°C (82°F) | 214 mm (8.4 in) |
| August | 28°C (82°F) | 203 mm (8 in) |
| September | 27°C (81°F) | 161 mm (6.3 in) |
Is Sarasota worth visiting in the Autumn?
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Sarasota. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you'll still come across plenty of touriss. However, the prices tend to be a little cheaper.
The warm weather in autumn is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 24°C (76°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 29°C (84°F).
Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums.
Autumn Weather in Sarasota
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 24°C (76°F) | 65 mm (2.6 in) |
| November | 20°C (69°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) |
| December | 17°C (62°F) | 56 mm (2.2 in) |
Is Sarasota worth visiting in the Winter?
This is the low season for travel in Sarasota. This destination is quite touristy, but in the low season you'll see fewer crowds and much better prices.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during winter with average temperatures around 15°C (59°F).
During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the cuisine, and the nightlife.
Winter Weather in Sarasota
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 15°C (59°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) |
| February | 17°C (62°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
| March | 20°C (67°F) | 99 mm (3.9 in) |
Is Sarasota worth visiting in the Spring?
The warm weather in spring is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 23°C (73°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 27°C (81°F).
The low season for travel in Sarasota is during the spring. This destination is quite touristy, but in the low season you'll see fewer crowds and much better prices.
This is a great time of year to browse the shops, wander through the museums, and dance the night away.
Spring Weather in Sarasota
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 23°C (73°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) |
| May | 25°C (78°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) |
| June | 28°C (82°F) | 165 mm (6.5 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Sarasota
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Sarasota might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Sarasota here or see if Sarasota is expensive here.
Related
What is Sarasota most famous for?
Sarasota is most famous for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. People visit this impressive city for its great museums and attractions. It's also known for food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. It is often described as underrated, relaxing, and entertaining.
What is the most famous sight in Sarasota?
The most popular sight in Sarasota is the John and Mable Ringling Museum. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Sarasota on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the John and Mable Ringling Museum and other attractions here.
How touristy is Sarasota? Is it a popular city to visit?
Sarasota is a popular city for tourists and travelers. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Robinson Preserve Mangrove Tour: $55
- Palmetto Ghost & History Tour by Silent Slayer Ghost Tours: $40
- Experience Parasailing in Sarasota: $99
- The Island Tour: $65
- Fly Above Water Efoil Adventure in Sarasota. A Must Do!: $250
- Siesta Key Guided Eco Tour: $59
- Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour: $59
- Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour: $58
How long should I spend in Sarasota?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Sarasota is two to five days. Since Sarasota has activities such as museums and attractions, many visit for up to five days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Sarasota?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Sarasota?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Sarasota?.
For guided and organized tour options, check out The Best Family-Friendly Tours to USA and The Best Wildlife Tours to USA.
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