Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide Part 3

Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide Part 3

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide Part 3

There’s no place like Sarasota in the summertime! Seas the day in sunny Sarasota with the hottest events of this August. Read below for the complete guide to a beachin’ vacation! 

 

August Events

Venice Cabaret Festival

July 12 – August 25 

Enjoy an evening on the town with Venice Theatre’s riveting Cabaret Festival performances this August! Originally opened in 1950, the Venice Theatre is a frequent favorite of Sarasota locals and visitors alike. Recognized as the largest community theatre in the United States, Venice Theatre brings you the 7th annual Cabaret Festival, featuring many different acts from top performers. 

Shark Days

August 4-10 

Head over to Mote Marine Aquarium for Shark Days, starting August 4th! This fin-tastic shark frenzy is going to be full of fun activities and family-friendly events. Learn all about Sarasota’s shark population while getting a unique perspective on these jawsome aquatic creatures!

Sarasota Slam Fishing Tournament

August 8-10

Get ready for a reel good time at Sarasota Slam Fishing Tournament! Are you ready for a friendly competition to see who wins the biggest catch this year? Sarasota Slam is an annual fishing tournament for pro and amateur anglers. Starting after the captains’ meeting August 8th and concluding August 10th at Marina Jack’s dockside party, this exciting event will have you hooked! 

Pioneer Days in Englewood

August 23 – September 2

End the summer in Sarasota at Englewood Pioneer Days Festival. A South Sarasota annual favorite, this tradition dates all the way back to the 1950s! Featuring kid-friendly activities, such as the Kid’s Shipwreck Dance, Fish-a-Thon, Historical Town Tour, Cardboard Boat Races, and a Diaper Derby. The highlight of the festival will include a parade, Corvette car show, and much more to conclude this fun-filled, annual Sarasota pastime. 

 

There’s no end of fun in the sun and adventures to be had in Sunny Sarasota! Explore Sarasota’s hottest summer events for your best vacation yet. 

Original Article Here

Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide Part 2

Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide Part 2

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide Part 2

There’s no place like Sunny Sarasota this summer! Seas the day in Sarasota county with the hottest spots of the season. Read below for a complete guide to your best vacation yet! 

July Events

Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix

June 29 – July 7

Ready, set, go – get ready for the Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix! An annual Sarasota favorite, this family-friendly, fun event takes off on June 29th, running through July 7th. Some dates to remember: July 3rd – the festival kickoff at Van Wezel, a spectacular evening of fireworks and more! July 5th – the Boats on Main block party. July 6th – Car show and motorcycle event at Rossiter’s Harley Davidson. July 7th is the highlight of the festival, where you can watch the powerboat races at Lido Beach. 

 

Looking for more places to sit back and watch the fireworks? Check out this guide to Independence Day Fireworks in Sarasota!

 

Art and a Movie at The Ringling

July 8 & 22, Aug. 5

Have you been looking for cost-friendly ways to spend your Sarasota vacation this summer? This July, The Ringling brings you Art and a Movie, a summer film series documenting three women whose art is featured in the museum. Each film will be shown on a Monday, the day that the Ringling waives the admission fee all year long. The films will be introduced by staff, who lead a short Q&A on the featured artist. 

Lionfish Derby

July 14

Sarasota fun fact! Did you know that the lionfish population in Sarasota are a venomous and invasive species, that disrupts the ecosystem in the entire Gulf? Reef Environmental Education Foundation has found a fun, creative solution to this problem! 6 years ago, this foundation started a one-day competition in order to remove as many lionfish as possible. This exciting competition, with a delicious finish, was so successful they have held it every year since. The annual Sarasota Lionfish Derby, held at Mote Marine Aquarium, starts July 12th, weigh-in and tastings starting on July 14th. 

Improv Festival

July 12-14

Theatre troupes from across the globe take the stage for the 10th Anniversary Sarasota Improv Festival. A three-day long event, these performances are sure to leave you laughing! 

Beach Volleyball

July 13-14

Are you looking for fun ways to spend your time in the sun? Siesta Key Beach holds an annual Dig the Beach Volleyball Tournament, the perfect way to get moving while still relaxing! 

 

Original Article Here

Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide

Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide

 

There’s no place like Sarasota in the summertime! Seas the day in sunny Sarasota with the hottest events of the summer. Read below for a complete guide to your best vacation yet!

June Events

Sarasota Music Festival

June 1-22

Don’t miss Sarasota Music Festival’s 54th annual music extravaganza! This event is a prominent music festival for professionals from all over the country. Presented by the Sarasota Orchestra, there are an array of performances to enjoy, including Friday Festivals, Saturday Symphonies and more!

Summer Circus Spectacular

June 11 – Aug. 3

Summer really starts to heat up in Sarasota when the Summer Circus Spectacular comes around! Located at the Historic Asolo Theatre, The Ringling works with the Circus Arts Conservatory to bring a thrilling family adventure featuring performers from across the globe!

Players Centre Summer Sizzler Series

June 12-23, July 23-28, Aug. 14-25; Players Centre for Performing Arts

A Sarasota hotspot, The Players have been annually performing in Sarasota for 83 years! This carefully crafted combination of professional and new performers makes for a unique show. They have some sizzlin’ package deals available for purchase; such as all THREE shows for only $45! This package deal also comes with a three gift cards to Caragiulo’s, Sarasota’s finest Italian American cuisine! Check out The Players website here for more information about their delightful upcoming summer performances.

Friday Fest Summer Concert Series

June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Friday Fest is a great family-friendly activity for those on a budget! A relaxing evening event featuring blues, jazz, R&B and many more performances. This free outdoor concert is held on the third Friday of every month and will have food trucks, beverages and more. Enjoy a midsummer ice cream overlooking the Sarasota Bay with live music in the background.

 

There’s no end of fun in the sun and adventures to be had in Sunny Sarasota! Explore Sarasota’s hottest summer events for your best vacation yet.

 

Original Article Here

Learn About Sea Turtles In Sarasota!

Learn About Sea Turtles In Sarasota!

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Sarasota County is a nesting ground for the highest amount loggerhead turtles in the Gulf. If you are planning your Sarasota vacation, it’s important to know all about their graceful habitants, the sea turtles!

 

The History Sarasota’s Sea Turtles

May 1st through October 31st is sea turtle nesting season in Sarasota County. Through July 1st, female turtles journey ashore to nest and lay their eggs, and starting around July the hatchlings begin their swim back into the Gulf of Mexico. Last year, the research from Mote Aquarium showed over 3,000 nests – almost all loggerhead sea turtles! Nine of those nests were reported to be green sea turtles. Both of these are on the endangered species list, but with the help of Mote’s sea turtle conservation efforts, last year’s nesting total was the third-highest since they began the program about 40 years ago.

Mote Marine Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Conservation

The Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Program, founded at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium has 35 miles of Sarasota and Manatee beaches in their care. Partnered with federal efforts to preserve sea turtles, Mote Marine Aquarium focuses primarily on loggerhead turtles, as the population in Sarasota is the highest on the Gulf of Mexico.

Learn About Sea Turtles at Mote Aquarium

If you want to get a more intimate look into the life of Sarasota’s sea turtles, go to Mote Aquarium for their exclusive sea turtle exhibit. You will learn all about sea turtle habits, endangerments, and Mote’s conservation efforts. Take a look at Mote’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital, which treats hurt turtles and prepares them to continue their life in the wild. Visit their resident sea turtles, Hang Tough, Montego, Squirt 2, and Harry. These turtles sustained injuries which rendered them unable to survive on their own, but now spend their days relaxing as Mote’s signature residents.

Nesting Information and Photos

Coastal Wildlife Club, a non-profit run entirely by volunteers, takes care of the sea turtle nesting habitats stretching the coast from Caspersen Beach in Venice to Stump Pass Beach State Park in Englewood. Check out their Facebook page for more information on nesting and photos throughout the season.

 

Original Article Here

How To Navigate Through Sea Turtle Nesting Season in Sarasota

How To Navigate Through Sea Turtle Nesting Season in Sarasota

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

How To Navigate Through Sea Turtle Nesting Season in Sarasota

 

Are you planning your Sarasota vacation for the summer? If your explorations are scheduled anytime before October 31st, there are some things you need to know about sea turtle nesting season! Sarasota County is a nesting ground for the highest amount loggerhead turtles in the Gulf.

 

Sarasota is the natural habitat to these elegant sea creatures, so here are some things to remember on your vacation:

 

  1. Help The Hatchlings

Sarasota’s sea turtle population is dependant on visitors and residents working together to make the hatchlings journey as safe as possible. If you are planning your trip to Sarasota, this means keeping some tips in mind on the waterfront. When setting up your beach day site, be sure to give nesting sites a wide berth. These are easy to spot as the sites are marked by wooden stakes and bright caution tape. If you are lucky enough to happen upon some hatchings coming out of their shell, watch from far away! Adults that are nesting can be spooked away easily, so it’s always best to give them space. Since sea turtles are a protected species, it is illegal to come in contact or interact with them at all.

When taking photos, be sure your flash is off, as the light can disorient and scare turtles.

When your day of fun in the sun is winding down, be sure to clear away all beach furniture, toys or trash. You also want to fill any holes that were dug and knock down sandcastles to make the hatchlings route to the water as smooth as possible.

Another very important tip to keep in mind is that darkness is paramount for baby sea turtles! Hatchlings survival rates depends on how quickly they get into the water, and they find the sea by following the brightest direction, which typically will be the open night sky over the water. That means: keep off all flashlights, fishing lamps, outdoor lights, and close your drapes if you are staying on the beachfront. Any artificial light on or near the beach can disrupt turtles’ natural instincts and make their journey to the water much longer, which is dangerous for newborn turtles. To keep the beach free of artificial light, dim your cellphone or ideally keep it off altogether. If you must pull your cellphone out, try to shield your screen with your hand.

  1. What To Do For Vulnerable Sea Turtles

Since it is illegal to interact with sea turtles, it’s important to have a few numbers on hand to contact in the case of an injured or stranded sea turtle. Mote Marine Laboratory’s Stranding Investigations can be contacted at 941-988-0212 and instruct on how to assist. If you find a stranded hatchling or one that is heading away from it’s natural migration pattern, toward the Gulf, call Mote’s Conservation Program at 941-388-4331. It’s imperative you call first and get professional advice on what action to take! Sea turtles are sensitive creatures and require special care.

  1. How To Safely Survey Sea Turtles

For a unique sea turtle spotting expedition, take a trip out to Longboat Key for a turtle walk lead by Longboat Key Turtle Watch. This free exploration meets at 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive and runs Saturdays in June and July., starting at 6:45 a.m. for the early birds. No reservation is needed, just show up on time and ready to see some turtles!

 

Original Article Here

Enjoy Sunny Sarasota’s Coastal Charm: Part 2

Enjoy Sunny Sarasota’s Coastal Charm: Part 2

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Are you planning your Sarasota vacation and looking for the best places to have fun? Full of coastal charm and tropical attractions, no matter how you choose to spend your time, Sunny Sarasota has endless fun in store for all.

 

Here Are Some Of Sunny Sarasota’s Best Local Attractions:

 

Sporty Sarasota Spots

Ed Smith Stadium

Kick back and relax with America’s pastime at a baseball outing. Sarasota spring training is in full swing and a hotspot of fun! Spend your holiday the all-American way while snacking on Dippin Dots and watching the Baltimore Orioles at Ed Smith Stadium.

Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf

Feed the baby alligators before your game at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf! Featuring a beautiful freshwater reptile habitat, you can head over to the course after feeding the gators. A full Floridian adventure with caves, waterfalls, pirate ships and more, this mini golf course is a family-friendly outing all will enjoy.

TreeUmph! Adventure Course

Get ready for the ultimate adventure at TreeUmph!, a 14-acre zipline park. This fun Bradenton favorite has courses of all kinds, from dangling ropes, ziplines, aerial tours and more. Keep in mind if you are looking for an adventure for the whole family, TreeUmph! has an age restriction of seven years and older. Containing obstacle courses and endless fun, this is sure to be an unforgettable adventure!

 

Sarasota Tours

Sarasota Bike Tours

Take an intimate tour of Sarasota and gaze over the beautiful landscape with Sarasota Bike Tours. This biking adventure runs from Siesta Beach to the Ringling Museum, and goes along the Sarasota Bayfront, giving you a full view of Sarasota. Learn all about the scenic gems you pass from the knowledgeable and friendly guide leading your tour.

Cruise The Seascape On LeBarge Tropical Cruises

Explore the Sarasota seascape on LeBarge Tropical Cruises, where you will see dolphins, manatees, and many other sea creatures. Your cruise will be guided by educated marine biologists, who will acquaint you with the beauty of Sarasota Bay.

 

Looking for more coastal sun in the fun? See part one for more of Sarasota’s best local attractions!

 

Original Article Here

Enjoy Sunny Sarasota’s Coastal Charm At These Local Attractions!

Enjoy Sunny Sarasota’s Coastal Charm At These Local Attractions!

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Enjoy Sunny Sarasota’s Coastal Charm At These Local Attractions!

There’s no place to be like Sunny Sarasota this summer! No matter how you choose to spend your time, Sarasota has endless fun in store for all.

Here Are Some Of Sunny Sarasota’s Best Local Attractions:

 

Artist’s Retreat

The Ringling

Art lovers from all over revel at The Ringling’s 66-acre breathtaking bayfront hideaway. Once the estate of art appreciators John and Mable Ringling, this historic museum includes priceless art, a circus, gorgeous gardens, historic tours, and more! With classic collections from the original owners to modern artists, the magnificent art display at The Ringling has something for everyone.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

This 15-acre scenic site is full of blooming florals and many different types of plant life. If you’re looking for an artsy adventure for the whole family, the Selby Botanical Gardens features The Children’s Rainforest, which has many different kids activities to enjoy. A tropical paradise filled with orchids, banyan trees, ferns and many more local plants, this peaceful retreat is a spot you must visit.

Nature Lover’s Paradise

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Another adventure the whole family can enjoy, Sarasota Jungle Gardens allows you to take an intimate look at the habitats of florida’s most fascinating animals. This 10-acre site is home to over 150 rescued animals, including parrots, lemurs, monkeys, crocodiles and many more. Feed the flamingos or watch the reptile show on this intriguing tropical venture.

Big Cat Habitat

If you can’t get enough of florida’s exotic animal life, check out the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary, a Sarasota non-profit and rescue sanctuary. Pet the goats and llamas, or watch the giant cats and vibrant birds in the animal shows performed.

Mote Marine Aquarium

This amazing aquarium houses over 100 species of marine life! The “Shark Zone” is a 135,000 gallon tank of shark frenzy fun everyone will enjoy gazing at. Stroll by the touch tanks and pet the stingrays, sea cucumber and other aquatic life. Don’t forget to wave goodbye at the friendly Mote mascots, the manatees Hugh and Buffett!

Mixon Fruit Farms

Yet another family-friendly adventure Sunny Sarasota offers, Mixon Fruit Farms has tram rides, historical charm and more! Wind through the citrus groves on a relaxing tram ride and check out the butterfly garden, all while learning of the Sunshine State’s fabulous fruits.

Original Article Here

The Best Of Sarasota: 6 Exquisite Waterside Dining Experiences

The Best Of Sarasota: 6 Exquisite Waterside Dining Experiences

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

 

Whether your dream Sarasota vacation includes water activities, safari adventures, or relaxing by the waterside with a good book, you will want to make time to grab a bite at some of these six breathtaking waterside restaurants. If you want to make the most of your time in Sunny Sarasota, you’ve come to the right place! Below you will find Sarasota’s best waterfront restaurants; sit back, relax and enjoy Florida’s freshest bounties with serene saltwater on your horizon.

 

Fin’s at Sharky’s

Take a short trip to the south end of Venice Island, where you will find Fin’s at Sharky’s, the only local restaurant situated right on the Gulf of Mexico. Sip on a carefully crafted cocktail while drinking in the beauty of the Gulf. Famed for their Tuna Tacos and unbelievable view, Fin’s at Sharky’s will be a lunch or dinner treat to remember.

Old Salty Dog – City Island

Complete your Sarasota adventures with a lunch break at Old Salty Dog. Their namesake, Salty Dog, is a must try! This treat is a quarter pound hot dog deep fried to golden perfection and served on a toasty bun – the ideal Sarasota vacation isn’t complete without it! Also famed in Sarasota for their bloody marys, the “Spicy Mary” comes highly recommended to sip with your seafood.

Ophelia’s On The Bay

Looking to experience serene Sarasota in style? Stop by Ophelia’s On The Bay to enjoy their exclusive wine, fresh seafood and more! Be sure to reserve your seat at an outdoor table ahead of time.

The Crow’s Nest

South of Venice Island has all of the best-kept secret spots! Dock on the side of The Crow’s Nest for a relaxing midday meal. The crabcake is The Crow’s Nest’s famed meal – the most flavorful crab you’ll find in Sarasota!.

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill

No Sarasota vacation is complete without dinner at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill. A local favorite for their classic lobster roll, this waterside dining spot will satisfy all of your seafood needs. If you’re not much of a lobster lover, their sandwich selection and pasta dishes provide a mouthwatering affair.

O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill

If you are looking for a picturesque dining experience with unforgettable views, O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill is the place to be. This laid-back, fur-baby friendly grill is the perfect pit stop when exploring downtown Sarasota or end to an adventurous day. The outdoor picnic area is reminiscent of Sarasota’s glistening beaches with soft sands underfoot. Serving seafood classics such as fried shrimp and grilled Mahi Mahi, the tiki bar is a lively haunt, frequented by locals and tourists. Relax over dinner and drinks while gazing at the mangroves and Sarasota Bay, the perfect end to your day!

 

Regardless of where you spend your vacation in Sunny Sarasota, you will want to make time for a meal at one of these serene seaside spots!

 

Original Article Here

Dive Into Sarasota’s Tastiest Seafood Spots

Dive Into Sarasota’s Tastiest Seafood Spots

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Dive Into Sarasota’s Tastiest Seafood Spots

By Hannah M.

 

Are you planning your Sarasota vacation and on the search for the best seafood spots? Southwest Florida has the freshest fish on the Gulf of Mexico! Take a look below at some of Sarasota’s favorite fish restaurants.

 

Walt’s Fish Market, Restaurant & Tiki Bar

4144 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Originally started as a fish market by the Wallin family, this restaurant took off in the 40’s when Tom Wallin began to cook up the catch of the day for local fishers. Since then, they have relocated and refreshed their entire business to include a full bar and a variety of fresh fish, including a rotating catch of the day. The grouper sandwich is a local favorite and said to be the best in the area!  

Crab & Fin

420 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota

A fundamental pitstop on St. Armand’s Circle for over four decades, Crab & Fin is known for the freshest fish in the region. Serving seafood from near and far, this seafood spot is one of the tastiest around! Their menu features a variety of seafood, from mahi-mahi to crab claws; Crab & Fin will satisfy all of your seafood cravings.

Eat Here

5315 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach

If you are craving the most savory seafood tacos in Southwest Florida, Eat Here has it all!. Featuring fish tacos in a truly authentic setting, this fish taco restaurant brings only the best ingredients to your plate. Served with Sriracha and crunchy vegetables, this taco promises a mouthwatering fare no matter what you fill it with.

Indigenous

239 S. Links Ave., Sarasota

A go-to spot for Sarasota locals, Indigenous offers great meals and good times. While they serve a variety of local food, Indigenous is most renowned for their seafood specials. Chef Steve Phelps carefully crafts each plate to perfection and is devoted to promoting renewable species. This restaurant is a fundamental fishy spot for your Sarasota vacation!

Spearfish Grille

1265 old Stickney Piont Rd, Sarasota

Quaint and relaxing, Spearfish offers fresh fish, shellfish and more right from the Gulf while giving you an close perspective of local life. Serving some of the most scrumptious seafood in the area, Spearfish doesn’t focus on appearance, but rather being known for the freshest catch around.

 

Original Article Here

Exploring Sarasota’s Burgeoning Rosemary District

Exploring Sarasota’s Burgeoning Rosemary District

by Scott Le Roy Comment Closed

Exploring Sarasota’s Burgeoning Rosemary District

 

Take a day trip just north of downtown Sarasota to the Rosemary district, where you will find the peak of Sarasota’s culture. This vibrant coastal corner is Sarasota’s center of modern culture, local art and tasty cuisine!

 

Sarasota Modern

If you’re looking for the perfect quaint hideaway, Sarasota Modern is in the center of the Rosemary District and focuses on lavish living. This elegant hotel promises a relaxing stay to look forward to at the end of the day.

The Yoga Shack

What better way to start the day than by greeting the sunrise with a salutation? The Yoga Shack starts it’s schedule early, with a variety of classes to suit all levels of yogis.

Lolita Tartine

After your refreshing yoga session, take a short walk over to Lolita Tartine, a tasty, traditional French breakfast spot. Start off with something sweet, like their mouthwatering chocolate croissant or a crepe while you sip on your cafe au lait. For those who like a more filling meal to start the day, give the personal quiche a go with your espresso.

The Overton

Experience the Rosemary District and Sarasota culture up close during your lunch break at The Overton. This trendy lunch spot is named after Sarasota County’s first Black community, and is the heart of the Rosemary District. Meander around the neighborhood after lunch and take in the colorful murals, local art and intriguing history. The murals in the Rosemary District are reason enough to visit this charming location; the art found here draws in locals and tourists alike.

Mandeville Beer Garden & Rudolph’s

For some happy hour specials to kick off your evening, Rudolph’s offers a perfectly crafted cocktail. If a local brew is more up your alley, Mandeville Beer Garden keeps a rotating selection of local brewers, including the popular JDub’s Brewing Company.

The Rosemary

Head over to The Rosemary for dinner in classic Sarasota style. With delectable dishes like tuna tartare and duck a l’orange waiting to be enjoyed while watching the sunset, this restaurant is a key dining experience. Named after the Rosemary District, the cultural cuisine served here in a coastal setting is wonderful way to finish the day.

The Blue Rooster

For a lively way to end the evening, The Blue Rooster offers nightly blues entertainment. Featuring local and touring musicians, the soulful sounds found at The Blue Rooster is an esoteric experience.

 

The Rosemary district is one of Sarasota’s many historical locations! See here for more intriguing historical escapades to enjoy on your vacation.

 

Original Article Here

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