Enjoying the Sun in Sarasota
If you enjoy year-round sun and a record amount of sunny days per year, maybe no other location in the world delivers like Sarasota. Nestled in the gulf coast of Florida, Sarasota is bathed in warm tropical breezes and a never ending supply of Florida sunshine year round. So, what is there to do outside in all of this sun? Sarasota has it all!
Sarasota easily has the best selection of beaches in the world. The soft, sugar sand stretches of beach are only rivalled by the sapphire and emerald color of the water. There are many award winning beaches in the Sarasota area, including Siesta Key, which has the whitest, softest sand of any beach in the world. The best times to visit Siesta Key, and all the popular beaches in the Sarasota area is during the late summer and early spring when they are at their emptiest. Even after it´s gotten too cool to swim, a quiet December stroll down an empty Siesta Key is like something out of a storybook.
Siesta Key isn´t alone on the Sarasota beach list. Lido beach is dotted with beautiful palm trees that sway in the gentle breeze that comes off the water. The sheer size of the white sand beach has to be seen to be believed and the dedicated caretakers of Lido beach keep it looking pristine. This is a much more private beach than Siesta Key and it may not have lifeguards on duty at all times, so be aware when you go for a dip.
If you´re looking for a bit more privacy, the little known Palmer Point Beach lies just south of Siesta Key and the best part is, most tourists don´t know about it. Enjoy a quiet walk along the rocky outcroppings and listen to the gulls sing their famous song. Palmer Point Beach is also a great place to sit and watch the beautiful tropical Florida wildlife.
If you need a break from the beach, there are many other fun outdoor attractions in the Sarasota area. Myakka River State Park allows boat trips into the Florida interior to see wildlife and experience the old-fashioned Florida. Ever wanted to see a real Florida alligator? This is your chance!
The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens features a wide array of flowers and plant life to satisfy anyone´s curiosity. Come enjoy the fantastic location right on the water in Sarasota, and take part in a full calendar of events and exhibits that change depending on the season.
If you prefer the company of feathered friends to flowers, the Pelican Man´s Bird Sanctuary is for you. It is one of the largest and best run animal rehab centers in the US, and is open every day of the year except Christmas and American Thanksgiving.
As you can see, Sarasota has so many different ways you can enjoy the sun, it may take a whole lifetime to do them all. Toss in the great selection of spectator and recreational sports and you have one of the most exciting and beautiful places you could live: Sarasota | 
