Breeze Flights to Sarasota, FL From $64*

The Sarasota/Bradenton area makes for a serene getaway along the Gulf Coast with shallow white sandbars and sparkling turquoise waters. A hotspot for local fishing and charter experiences, get your fill of fresh seafood right on the ocean. It is also known for nature preserves and wild marshlands. Get your fill of adventure and fun in the sun in this paradise retreat. 

Where to Stay 

Sarasota and Bradenton are protected from the Gulf by a series of barrier islands along the coastline. The most popular beaches are on these islands, but you’ll also enjoy a stay on Sarasota Bay. Siesta and Longboat Keys make for your typical resort areas. Small rows of cottages and larger hotels line miles of open seashore. Break out an umbrella and claim your spot, enjoying the warm ocean breeze as you read a book or sunbathe. Cool off in the mild surf and feel the crunch of sand under your feet. Stay in these spots for the best unbroken beach access. 

If you’re looking for a quieter vacation with more inlets and greenery to explore, consider Lido Key, nestled in the middle of the other islands. It features a unique, outdoor shopping area situated on its own square near the water, St. Armands Circle. South of town, check out Venice Beach, a popular shelling spot. It also has a reef that’s excellent for snorkeling. At the northern tip of Bradenton is Anna Maria Island, a hotspot for fishing. Bean Point makes for a chill place to wander the coast. Last, but not least, Bradenton Beach is a historic place to stay near Cortez, one of the last remaining fishing villages on the Gulf Coast.  Bridge Street pier is a popular spot to look out over the sound and watch the sunset. 

Experience Science and Nature 

Get outdoors and discover local and exotic flora and fauna in Sarasota. You must see the two campuses of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, one in Downtown Sarasota and the other at Historic Spanish Point. Walk through draping banyan trees surrounded by native tropical plants including orchids, bromeliads, and gesneriads. Enjoy the waterfront promenades, canopied boardwalks, lush ponds, and curated horticulture of the landmark. 

Explore the unique ocean inlets and marsh areas in places like Myakka River State Park and the Robinson and Perico Preserves. Peruse the wooden footpaths built into the water past green overgrowth. You can also opt for a kayak to cool off and get close to the action. Look for sea birds, dolphins, manatees, and a variety of fish in these wild spaces. Also keep an eye out for the iconic mangrove trees that line the coastal waters.  

Looking for more animal encounters? Check out Sarasota jungle Gardens, home to more than 200 animals from around the world, including flamingos, alligators, reptiles, parrots, and lemurs. Feel like you’re a part of their natural habitat as you walk through groves of palm trees and other greenery. The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is another great place to get up close and personal with the creatures that roam Florida’s seas. Spot spindly lionfish, sea turtles, sharks, jellyfish, and more in this aquatic emporium. 

A Hub of Culture and Art 

Immerse yourself in various experiences designed to connect you with the heart and soul of the city. Have you ever heard of the Ringling Brothers? One of them, John Ringling and his wife Mable, made an impact on Sarasota by establishing their home on the coast. They even built an art installations and eventually established the winter quarters of the circus there. The historic park named after them sits right on the Gulf shore, sporting Ca’ d’Zan, their waterfront mansion, a rose garden, the Tibbals Learning Center that serves as a museum for the circus, and the Museum of Art all open to tour. 

Many baseball fans flock to town in time for Major League Baseball’s spring training. Three teams call the area home from late February to early April. The Pittsburgh Pirates play up north at LECOM Park in Bradenton. The Baltimore Orioles get warmed up for the season at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Braves hang out at CoolToday Park near Venice. Whether you cheer for one of the teams or you just love baseball, spring training is a fun way to see new prospects and watch the sport in the best weather on earth. 

If you’re looking for quirky, off-the-beaten-path activities, check out the Village of the Arts in Bradenton. Local artists live and work out of little cottages-turned studios. You can see their sculptures, paintings, and murals displayed along the street and browse their galleries. Another interesting place to check out nearby is Manatee Village Historical Park. Discover the restored civic buildings and artifacts of a bygone era including a church, a blacksmith, a general store, a steam engine, and a school. 

Ready for a relaxing escape to the beach? Book your flight to Sarasota with Breeze today.