The Best Bradenton and Sarasota beaches

In this post I will try to show you some of the best Bradenton and Sarasota beaches there are. Hopefully I cover what I believe are the best feel free to reach out and share your beaches and why you feel they are the best.

After going to many beaches in Florida for over 30 years. As well as growing up on the east coast and going to beaches up and down the Atlantic ocean. In addition to visiting the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

Crystal clear

I can tell you there is no more beautiful experience than swimming in the crystal clear waters along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.

Each beach is unique.

One thing I can tell you is that every beach in Florida has it’s own unique flavor and even though the sand and water may look similar the ambiance is always a little bit different.

From Naples to Clearwater every beach is unique. However we will share with you our personal opinions from our own experiences and speaking with thousands of people through the years the best Sarasota beaches they liked best and why.

1 -SIESTA KEY
Siesta Key has emerged as the top local tourist destination and one of the best Sarasota beaches you will find. Such as its soft sand and iconic beach pavilion, it’s a must-visit on your travel itinerary. To get to the Siesta key beach area you must travel approximately 20 minutes south from Sarasota Bradenton airport.

*Activities at Siesta Key Beach*

Indulge in yoga on the beach and immerse yourself in the popular sunset drum circles at 948 Beach Road. Additionally, don’t forget to check out their Sunday church service!

*Accommodation Options*

Explore mom-and-pop local rentals because of the lack of large hotels. Also book an Airbnb through platforms like Booking.com or VACASA’s website for a unique beach vacation experience.

*Parking Tips and Alternative Locations*

The presence of taller buildings along the beach area determines where you’re likely to go. During peak season (Jan 1 to end of April), parking lots fill up quickly. Consider utilizing St Boniface for parking, especially when there’s no church service taking place.

*Explore Turtle Beach*

For instance for a quieter escape, venture to Turtle Beach situated south of Stickney Point. However revel in a more secluded beach experience if you’re an adventure seeker!

2-Anna Maria Island

ANNA Maria Island made it into the best Bradenton and Sarasota beaches because of it’s uniqueness

Just west of the city of Bradenton and about 25 minutes northwest of Sarasota Bradenton airport is an incredible place Anna Maria Island and with a lot of things to do and yet it still keeps it’s downhome charm. If you choose you can also stay on Longboat Key and just drive a few minutes north to Anna Maria island.

* Activities at the Beach *

There are 2 major Manatee Beaches one on the south end of the island is Coquina beach. Which has plenty of parking. the beaches have warm sands and places to eat and they both have swings and slides and a volleyball net for fun.

* Accommodation Options *

There are plenty of mom and pop resorts as well as plenty of vacation rentals for larger family or friendly get together.

* Parking Tips and local transportation*

Manatee county beach has the smaller parking lot. However Coquina beach which has plenty of parking and allows parking for RVs .While just as nice of a beach.

* Rentals*

A lot of people staying on Anna Maria Island like to rent golf carts or bikes to get around the island. Click here to check out some of our affiliates Anna Maria Island activities

3-VENICE BEACH

About 30 minutes south of Sarasota Bradenton International airport

is Venice which has a charming beach area. Although it has a small town feel to it and there are always fun activities happening near the beach. and they have the famous sail pavilion. This is why it made our list of the best Bradenton and Sarasota beaches list.

*Activities at the beach*

If you want a tropical experience from the live music to the street fairs Venice Florida is wonderful. While on at the best Sarasota beach for finding an abundance of sharks teeth just a few feet off shore someone found shark teeth thousands of years old happy hunting.

* Accommodations *

You will find hotels and resorts similarly vacation rentals. In all price ranges it’s a very affordable and comfortable place to vacation.

*Downtown*

The downtown area has restaurants and bars and lovely shops. And also don’t forget to visit the Farmers market open every Saturday.

4-LIDO BEACH

About 20 from Sarasota Bradenton Airport SRQ is Lido beach. Just down Tamiami Trail and over the Ringling Causeway you will continue past the iconic St. Armand’s Circle. Subsequently you will be treated as a valuable high end vacation goer.

* PLACES TO STAY*

Likewise there are many high end hotels and resorts plus many vacation rentals in all price ranges with many amenities.

*ACTIVITIES*

For example the pavilion with it’s swimming pool offers vacationers the best of both worlds. The pool which is open Wednesday thru Sunday from 10AM TO 430 PM and the beach which is open everyday.

Additionally there is food available at the Lido Island Grill or you could bring your own and make a day of it.

* Places to eat on the circle

If you like Italian food, Spanish food or wonderful seafood you could have breakfast lunch or dinner there.

* SHOPPING *

Conversely you have an abundance of choices whether it is for clothing Florida souvenirs and artwork you will be amazed at what you will find on St. Armand’s circle.

5-ENGLEWOOD AND MANASOTA KEY

Traveling about 40 minutes or so is the secluded Englewood and Manasota Key beach are one of the best Sarasota beaches most nature friendly areas Whether you are staying on Lemon Bay or the Gulf of Mexico.

*HOTELS AND OTHER PLACES TO RELAX*

During your stay have choices on the mainland or on Manasota Key. Hotels and resorts most are very reasonable depending on the time of the year.

*ACTIVITIES*

From kayaking to fishing and plenty of trails you can even visit. For example the Lemon Bay aquatic preserve.

* PLACES TO EAT*

For example you have a wide variety of choices whether in Englewood or Manasota Key at reasonable prices.

If you are looking for a laid back Florida vacation at an affordable price. Than look no further than the Englewood- Manasota Key beach area. Overall you are definitely going to have an amazing time.

To sum up the best Bradenton and Sarasota Beaches

Wherever you choose to stay along you will have an amazing time. Likewise if you want just lay back and relax. As well as enjoy all that these Florida beaches have to offer. Similarly if you want an adventurous time by snorkeling or kayaking through the mangroves. It’s all there for you to take in for your gulf coast getaway. Additionally if you are a foodie like me the world will be your oyster. In closing I hope you enjoy the Florida gulf coast as much as I have for over 25 years thanks.