By Melissa Vogt Florida Weekly | June 25, 2024

Sarasota Outdoor Activities

The Sarasota area is home to a wide range of options for enjoying nature, including biking, shopping at local farmers’ markets, exploring parks, and trying a new water sport. Whether you are just moving to Florida or are simply searching for a new home that provides better access to your favorite outdoor activities, the Sarasota area is an excellent choice for exploring a bit of everything. Here are some top picks among clients we have worked with to add to your to-do list once you have moved into your new home!

 Best Parks & Beaches for Outdoor Activities in Sarasota

The Sarasota area is home to over 50 public parks, as well as an abundance of state parks, beaches, and other recreational areas. With so many outdoor spaces to choose from, chances are you will always have new ones on your list to explore. Many state parks also offer campgrounds, which provide plenty of options for extended outdoor recreation. Some popular choices include:

  • Alderman Multi-Use Recreational Trail
  • Arlington Park & Aquatic Complex
  • Bayfront Park and Marina
  • Bayfront Community Center
  • Circus Trail Nature Park

Sarasota Farmers’ Markets Worth Adding to Your Weekend

Enjoying locally grown produce is an excellent (and tasty!) way to support small businesses and farmers in your community. The Sarasota area is known for its several popular fish markets, and foodies also have plenty of other farmers’ markets to choose from. Some popular choices include:

  • Sarasota Farmers’ Market (open 7 am – 1 pm on Saturdays year-round)
  • Venice Farmers’ Market (open 8 am – 1 pm on Saturdays year-round)
  • Farmers’ Market at Lakewood Ranch (open 10 am – 2 pm on Sundays year-round)

Top Bike Trails for Outdoor Recreation in Sarasota, FL

Sarasota is home to a wide range of both classic and unique bike trails for cyclists of any ability. From quick rides to day trips, both casual bikers and cycling enthusiasts can find plenty to enjoy along Sarasota’s miles of urban, rural, inland, coastal, and other bike trails. Some highlights include:

  • Gulf of Mexico Driver’s 22-mile loop along the waterfront
  • Robinson Preserve’s 7-mile paved loop over a dozen wooden bridges
  • Alafia State Park’s dozens of trails of a variety of difficulty levels
  • Myakka River State Park’s 14-mile easy loop with occasional wildlife sightings

Sarasota Water Sports & Waterfront Activities

Enjoying everything local waterfronts have to offer is a major perk of living in Florida, and the Sarasota area offers an abundance of options for cooling off while having fun in the sun. Some of the most popular water sports options the Sarasota area has to offer include:

  • Turtle Beach Kayak Tours and Boat Rentals
  • Sarasota Mangrove Tunnel Guided Kayak Adventures
  • Key Fishing
  • Blue Water Explorers Dive Charters
  • Siesta Key Watersports and Parasailing

Find a Home Near Sarasota’s Best Outdoor Spots

At Candy Swick & Company, our team prioritizes helping you find a new home that provides easy access to your favorite outdoor activities. We always want our clients to feel at home as early as possible, which starts with selecting a neighborhood that is known for your top priorities. Our extensive knowledge of where to find the best outdoor activities in the Sarasota area makes us a top choice among a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, and we can’t wait to meet you and offer insights into the best parts of town to enjoy your favorites.

Contact us today to learn about our properties that are currently available in the Sarasota area and beyond, and start the process of finding your new home!