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Sarasota Lifestyles

There's far more to Sarasota than award winning beaches.  A European influenced city with beautiful bays and tree-lined streets, there's galleries, cafe's, live theatre and so much more to explore. Beautiful Gulf waters beckon the boating and water sports enthusiasts, spend endless days on the area's manicured golf courses, or find a match on the area tennis courts.

FLORIDA'S CULTURAL COAST
A thriving arts community is a large part of the Sarasota lifestyle. Professional theaters, symphonies, the ballet, opera and a host of playhouses has earned Sarasota the title of "Florida's Cultural Coast." Home to an abundance of art galleries, along with the
Ringling Museum of Art and Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, this artist's haven attracts global attention from performers, as well as patrons.

BOATING
Sarasota boaters have found the perfect location to spend time on the open waterways. With public ramps throughout the county, discover the amazing marine bounty, marvelous marinas and serene sailing opportunities.

FISHING
The Sarasota area is home to some of the best sport fishing in the state. From a pier, jetty, or deep-sea charter, wet a line and discover coves of grouper, or snag a redfish, kingfish, trout or amberjack. Tarpon cruise the deep waters, while Snook is Florida's official game fish.

OUT AND ABOUT
The diversity of natural beauty in the Sarasota area is best experienced canoeing,, kayaking or on a trail in one of the area's State Parks. Windsurfing lessons, parasailing or fishing, picnic, stroll, hike or bike the vast natural areas. 
Myakka River State Park and Oscar Scherer State Park provide the perfect backdrop for a canopy walk, or observing the fragile wetlands.

DAYS ON THE GREEN
Of the Top 20 Southwest regional
golf courses voted by the readers of Florida Golf News, nine are in the Sarasota area; four local courses are in the top 100 places to play in the whole state. Local professionals and top instructors are one hand at one of the many golf academies to assist you improve your game.

EXPLORE
With an eco-focus, experience the sea life at Mote Aquarium, or the extensive array of wildlife and shows at Sarasota Jungle Gardens. Explore local history at
Historic Spanish Point, or wander the tropical oasis of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

SARASOTA FARE
Well known for fine dining, and it's award-winning restaurants, the area's extensive fare is sure to please. Outdoor, waterfront, intimate cafe, or tropical beach getaway, there's a delectable array of cuisine to choose from.
Select from Spanish, Asian, Caribbean, French or Italian. Using the freshest of seafood, you'll find a delightful assortment of culinary presentations.

AREA SHOPPING
One of the most famous St. Armands Circle features upscale boutiques and specialty stores, along with cafes and alfresco dining. Downtown Sarasota offers small-town ambiance on Main Street, with galleries on Palm Avenue and fine antiques on Pineapple Avenue.  In Venice, experience one of the best downtown areas in America. Nearby outlet malls are sure to please the most discerning shopper.

SARASOTA WEATHER
With abundant sunny days and an average annual temperature of 74 degrees, Sarasota has near perfect weather year-round.
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LISA R. MORRIS