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Leisure

So much of the Sarasota appeal is derived from a vast selection of leisure time activities. Of course the waters of Sarasota invite a wealth of activity. Numerous parks offer hiking, canoeing, fishing, swimming and other water sports. Sporting activities in the area include baseball spring training, professional volleyball and ice hockey. Enjoy the amenities at one of the 60 area golf courses, a wide array of tennis options, dock your boat at one of the marvelous area marinas, parasail, deep-sea fish, or leisurely sail the majestic Sarasota Bay.

Sarasota's location and tropical climate offer the perfect location for environmental protection, educational exhibits and research of Florida's natural bounty.  Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a showcase of over 6,000 orchids and a tropical paradise. Mote Marine Aquarium combines research with hands-on learning exhibits where sea turtles, manatee, sharks and other marine life are nurtured studied, and protected. Numerous area attractions reveal an intense regard for the environment, as well as the historical masterpieces and museums of Sarasota.

Bishop Planetarium
Circus Sarasota
Ed Smith Stadium 
Gulfcoast Wonder and Imagination Zone 
Mote Marine Laboratory
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Museum of Cars and Music
The Parker Manatee Aquarium
Sarasota Convention & Visitor's Bureau
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Sarasota Polo Club
Sarasota Red Sox
South Florida Museum

With a great waterfront location, the area State Parks feature beaches, boating, shelling and bird watching.  The whole family will enjoy airboat cruises, eco-cruises, an abundance of wildlife, kayaking adventures or a peaceful park picnic.

Historic Spanish Point
Historic Spanish Point, overlooking Sarasota Bay, provides a window into 5,000 years of human history, with Native American shell middens, preserved pioneer structures, nature trails and formal gardens.

Myakka River State Park
Myakka River State Park is Florida's largest natural park, offering canoeing, fishing, camping, an airboat cruise, a canopy walk and biking among a diversity of bird and wildlife. Safari tram tours of the park?s back country are offered from mid-December through May. The Myakka River flows through 58 square miles of wetlands, prairies and woodlands.

Oscar Scherer State Park
Oscar Scherer State Park is one of the best places to see Florida scrub-jays, a threatened species found only in Florida. Hike or bike through 15 miles of nature trails or kayak or canoe along South Creek, a black water stream that flows to the Gulf of Mexico. Fishing is available along the creek or the shores of Lake Osprey. The park has picnic areas; pavilions, full-facility campsites and a youth/group campground.