AREA BEACHES
Sarasota and surrounding area offers the best beaches in the state. Every beach is unique and easily within reach. Below are details on area beaches to get you started on planning your trip. Be sure to visit the link above to find some of the best Beachside rentals.
Longboat Key Beach
Longboat Key Beach, nestled along the tranquil Gulf Coast of Florida, embodies a serene paradise with its pristine sands and azure waters. The beach stretches 10.8 miles languidly along the island’s western shore, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico’s shimmering expanse. Its powdery white sand invites visitors to stroll barefoot and bask under the warm sun, while gentle waves lap at the shore, creating a soothing soundtrack. Longboat Key Beach is renowned for its peaceful ambiance, ideal for quiet contemplation or leisurely picnics under swaying palms. With its blend of natural beauty and understated elegance, this beach is a haven for those seeking relaxation amidst unspoiled surroundings. There are very few public accesses to Longboat Key Beach, but if you rent through Florida Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals, private accesses are included with Longboat Key Rentals. Look for the blue and white beach access signs. Beach access is available at
- 2825 Gulf of Mexico Dr.
Parking available at Town Hall (501 Bay Isles Rd.) - 3175 Gulf of Mexico Dr.
Parking available on site - 3355 Gulf of Mexico Dr.
Parking available on site - 3495 Gulf of Mexico Dr.
Handicap Accessible on site, also parking across street - 4001 Gulf of Mexico Dr.
Parking available at Bayfront Park (4052 GMD) - 4711 Gulf of Mexico Dr.
Handicap Accessible parking on site - 4795 Gulf of Mexico Dr.
Handicap Accessible parking on site - 6399 Gulfside Road
Parking available at General Harris Street - 6847 Gulf of Mexico Dr.
Parking available at Broadway Access - 100 Broadway St.
Handicap Accessible parking on site - 7055 Seabreeze Ave.
No parking available - 100 North Shore Road
Parking available on site
Lido Beach
Lido Beach in Florida is a stunning coastal gem located near Sarasota on the Gulf Coast. Renowned for its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, Lido Beach offers a quintessential tropical paradise experience. The beach is part of Lido Key, a barrier island known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing along the expansive shoreline. Lido Beach is also popular for its spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, providing a perfect backdrop for romantic evenings or peaceful strolls. Lido Beach offers Lifeguards, concession/restaurant, restrooms, showers, picnic area, swimming pool(fee), and pavilion. There is a large free parking lot at Lido Beach. This beach is popular and can get crowded.
Ted Sperling Park at
South Lido Beach
Ted Sperling Park is located at 2201 Benjamin Franklin Drive, which is the very southern tip of Lido Key. There is no lifeguard. This park offers an exceptional beach experience with picnic tables and a playground. This is a very natural setting and offers views of the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota Bay and Big Pass. Restrooms are available and parking is free.
Coquina Beach
Coquina Beach, located on Anna Maria Island in Manatee County, Florida, is celebrated for its pristine white sands and tranquil Gulf waters. As one of the most popular beaches in the area, Coquina Beach attracts visitors with its picturesque views and wide range of recreational activities. The beach offers excellent amenities including picnic areas, grills, restrooms, and ample parking, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for families and beachgoers. Coquina Beach is also known for its scenic walking paths and opportunities for birdwatching along the nearby wetlands, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts as well as those seeking relaxation by the sea.
The beach’s southern end is home to the historic Coquina Beach Cafe, offering beachside dining with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Here, visitors can indulge in casual fare and refreshing beverages while taking in the sights and sounds of the coastline. Whether lounging under an umbrella with a good book or exploring the waters with snorkeling gear, Coquina Beach provides a quintessential Gulf Coast beach experience with a blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities.
Coquina Beach is located just off the Northern tip of Longboat Key. It is approximately 1.5 mile long and has ample public parking. It also offers a larger picnic area with grills, playground, restrooms and showers. There is also a Beach volleyball court.
Cortez Beach
– Bradenton Beach
Cortez Beach is located in the Bradenton Beach area and is a small undeveloped beach. The address is 1506 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach. There is a picnic area available and nature trail. Parking is available.
Siesta Key Beach
Siesta Key Beach, located on the barrier island of Siesta Key near Sarasota, Florida, is celebrated for its pristine, powdery white quartz sand that feels cool and soft to the touch—a rare geological feature not commonly found elsewhere. This sand, composed of almost pure quartz crystal, remains remarkably cool even under the hot Florida sun, making it comfortable for beachgoers to walk on. Beyond its unique sand, Siesta Key Beach boasts stunning turquoise waters that gently lap against the shore, inviting visitors to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard in its calm and clear depths. The beach stretches for miles, offering ample space for both relaxation and recreational activities.
In addition to its natural beauty, Siesta Key Beach provides excellent amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and volleyball courts, catering to families, groups, and solo travelers alike. The beachfront is lined with shops, cafes, and rental facilities for beach gear, ensuring convenience for visitors looking to enjoy a full day or evening on the sands. With its vibrant sunsets and laid-back atmosphere, Siesta Key Beach consistently ranks among the top beaches in the United States, attracting visitors from around the world seeking a slice of paradise along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Siesta Key Beach is ranked the #9 best beach in the world by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards. There is a free trolly to access the nearby Siesta Key Village.
Turtle Beach
Turtle Beach, nestled on the southern end of Siesta Key in Sarasota County, Florida, offers a tranquil and picturesque escape for beachgoers seeking a quieter alternative to its more famous neighbor, Siesta Key Beach. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty, Turtle Beach is characterized by its fine white sand and gentle Gulf waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is aptly named for the sea turtles that occasionally nest here, adding to its charm and ecological significance.
Visitors to Turtle Beach can enjoy a range of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and volleyball courts, catering to families and groups looking for a day of fun and relaxation by the sea. The nearby Turtle Beach Marina provides opportunities for boating and fishing excursions, while the scenic trails at nearby Turtle Beach Park offer a chance to explore the coastal flora and fauna. With its serene ambiance and stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, Turtle Beach remains a beloved destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Crescent Beach
Crescent Beach, situated on Siesta Key in Sarasota County, Florida, is renowned for its serene beauty and soft, powdery white sand. As one of the quieter beaches on Siesta Key, Crescent Beach offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to its bustling neighbor, Siesta Key Beach. The beach stretches along the Gulf of Mexico, providing ample space for visitors to relax, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy leisurely walks along the shore. Crescent Beach is also known for its excellent conditions for shell collecting and is a favorite spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the natural splendor of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Along with its natural charm, Crescent Beach features convenient amenities such as picnic areas, grills, and restrooms, making it an ideal destination for families and groups looking to spend a day by the sea. The beach is also popular among snorkelers and paddleboarders who can explore the gentle surf and vibrant marine life. Whether watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink or simply unwinding under the shade of a palm tree, Crescent Beach offers a quintessential Gulf Coast beach experience with a touch of tranquility and charm.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach, located on the southwest coast of Florida in Sarasota County, is renowned for its unique coastal features and relaxed atmosphere. Known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World,” Venice Beach attracts visitors from around the globe eager to search its shores for fossilized shark teeth, which wash ashore due to the area’s underwater geology. The beach itself stretches for miles along the Gulf of Mexico, offering soft, sandy expanses perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Beyond its fossil hunting allure, Venice Beach is beloved for its clear turquoise waters and well-maintained facilities, including picnic areas, boardwalks, and ample parking.
Adjacent to the beach, Venice’s historic downtown offers charming shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a vibrant destination for both beachgoers and enthusiasts of coastal charm. The Venice Fishing Pier, extending into the Gulf, provides opportunities for fishing and enjoying panoramic views of the coastline. Whether strolling along the pristine sands, discovering treasures from the sea, or savoring local cuisine with a view, Venice Beach promises a delightful blend of natural beauty and coastal culture for visitors seeking a quintessential Florida beach experience.
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Caspersen Beach
Caspersen Beach, located south of Venice in Sarasota County, Florida, is renowned for its natural beauty and serene, undeveloped atmosphere. Unlike its more touristy neighbors, Caspersen Beach remains largely untouched, offering a quieter and more secluded experience for visitors. One of the beach’s notable features is its extensive shoreline lined with unique shells and fossilized shark teeth, making it a popular destination for shell collectors and amateur paleontologists. The beach is also known for its nature trails and boardwalks that wind through coastal mangroves and dunes, providing opportunities for birdwatching and exploring Florida’s diverse ecosystems.
Caspersen Beach is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature, away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded beaches. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking in a tranquil setting surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Gulf Coast. With its natural beauty and abundant wildlife, Caspersen Beach offers a unique coastal experience that highlights the unspoiled charm of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Nokomis Beach
Nokomis Beach, situated in Sarasota County, Florida, just south of Sarasota and north of Venice, offers a serene and family-friendly coastal retreat along the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its wide sandy shores and clear blue-green waters, Nokomis Beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its relaxed ambiance and natural beauty. The beach provides ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
One of the highlights of Nokomis Beach is its stunning sunsets over the Gulf, which draw photographers and sunset enthusiasts to witness the sky ablaze with vibrant colors. The beach is also equipped with amenities such as picnic tables, playgrounds, and restroom facilities, catering to families looking to spend a full day by the sea. Nearby, the Nokomis Beach Plaza features shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors, adding convenience and charm to the beach experience. Whether enjoying a leisurely day under the Florida sun or catching a breathtaking sunset, Nokomis Beach offers a quintessential Gulf Coast beach experience with a touch of local charm.
North Jetty Beach
North Jetty Beach, located in Nokomis, Florida, is a beloved destination known for its picturesque setting where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Venice Inlet. This convergence creates a unique coastal environment ideal for fishing, birdwatching, and enjoying stunning views of passing boats and playful dolphins. North Jetty Beach is popular among anglers who come to fish off the jetty or from the shore, hoping to catch a variety of local species. The beach itself offers soft, sandy shores perfect for sunbathing and beachcombing, with gentle waves that invite visitors to swim or simply relax by the water’s edge.
Beyond its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, North Jetty Beach is equipped with amenities such as picnic areas, pavilions, restrooms, and ample parking, ensuring a comfortable experience for families and visitors. The nearby North Jetty Fish Camp provides convenient access to bait, tackle, and snacks, enhancing the beach’s appeal for both day-trippers and locals alike. Whether watching a vibrant sunset over the Gulf or casting a line into the clear waters, North Jetty Beach offers a serene and inviting atmosphere along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
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Anna Maria Beach
Anna Maria Beach, located on the northern end of Anna Maria Island in Manatee County, Florida, is a tranquil and picturesque Gulf Coast destination. Known for its pristine white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, Anna Maria Beach offers a serene setting for visitors seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The beach stretches for miles along the Gulf of Mexico, providing plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. With its laid-back atmosphere and minimal commercial development, Anna Maria Beach retains a charming, old Florida feel that appeals to both locals and tourists.
In addition to its natural allure, Anna Maria Beach features amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and beach volleyball courts, catering to families and groups looking to spend a full day by the sea. The nearby historic Anna Maria City Pier offers panoramic views of the coastline and opportunities for fishing, while quaint shops and eateries in the surrounding area provide opportunities to explore and indulge in local flavors. Whether enjoying a leisurely day under the sun or admiring a spectacular sunset over the Gulf, Anna Maria Beach promises a delightful Gulf Coast beach experience with a touch of coastal charm.
Holmes Beach
Holmes Beach, situated on Anna Maria Island in Manatee County, Florida, is a vibrant and family-friendly Gulf Coast destination. Known for its wide sandy shores and shallow, calm waters, Holmes Beach attracts visitors looking to relax and enjoy the sun with activities like swimming, beach volleyball, and building sandcastles. The beach is equipped with amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and convenient beach access points, making it accessible and comfortable for families with young children.
In addition to its recreational offerings, Holmes Beach boasts a charming coastal atmosphere with local shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors within walking distance of the shoreline. Visitors can rent bicycles or paddleboards to explore the area, or simply stroll along the beach to soak in the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Whether spending a leisurely day under the shade of a beach umbrella or savoring fresh seafood at a waterfront eatery, Holmes Beach offers a quintessential Gulf Coast experience with a blend of relaxation and local charm.
Rental Condos
Beach Residences -Managed by Ritz Carlton
Lido Key
The Beach Residences are exquisite luxury on the beach in the world renowned Ritz Carton Beach Club on Lido Beach. We are now offering premier 4 Bedroom 4 bath 3,800 square feet accommodations that can be rented from 1 month to 12 months. Book this with us and receive a membership to the Ritz Beach Club while you are visiting. Please call as this option may not be reserved online.
Islands West
Longboat Key
NEW PROPERTY – ( 3 month Minimum) Islands West is a 15 story, high-rise condominium complex. It is located directly on the beautiful, white-sand beaches of Longboat Key and adjacent to Longboat Publix shopping center. Guests love the building’s large wrap-around balconies with breathtaking views of the beach, gulf, bay and downtown Sarasota skyline.
Beachplace
Longboat Key
1 acres of manicured gardens with a backdrop to the beach and Gulf of Mexico. Beachplace offers 2 and 3 bedroom condos with a variety of views. Offers a minimum of 30 day rentals and amenities sure to delight including tennis courts, fitness center, pool and beach. We offer a large selection of condos at this gated property near the Southern end of Longboat Key.
Seaplace
Longboat Key
Reserve your piece of paradise on Longboat Key. Seaplace Seaplace is a 42 acre gated community of 461 maintenance-free condominiums. There are two mid-rise buildings, nine garden buildings and twelve townhouses. Seaplace is one of the most popular family beach complexes on Longboat Key. Two Month Minimum stays are required in this beachfront location.
The Pierre
Longboat Key
66 luxury residences nesting on 7 acres facing a beautiful sandy beach behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club . Meander along the dune onto the private beach and relax at a tiki hut or slip into a chair or lounger.
The Promenade
Longboat Key
The Promenade provides beautiful gardens and luxurious amenities in very upscale setting. Located on a spectacular section of Southern Longboat Key with a beautiful soft sand beach. A gated community with 24 hour security and in building concierge available seven days a week. The lush tropical grounds are a park-like setting and feature Har-Tru tennis courts and a beautiful Gazebo, gathering and grill area. The swimming pool is one of the largest on the island and also features a hot tub. The lobbies have been recently renovated and are a very comfortable space. Fitness centers and Club rooms are also available. Garage covered guest parking available. This is a 90 day minimum rental property
Contact us with your Rental Inquiry - 800-921-GULF or 941-879-9300
Host: Rick Benninghove
I work to find you the ultimate vacation accommodation. We will assist every step of the way including meeting you at the condo or house for check-in and giving you an orientation to the property and amenities. Call, text or email today so that our team can ensure you find your perfect place in paradise
Customer Reviews:
Dan and Cathy W: We have just completed a one month tenancy at Beachplace on Longboat Key with Rick Benninghove as the agent for the owner. We found him at all times to be attentive to our every need and extremely professional in the management of his business. We would definitely rate him as a 5 on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the highest.
Sandy L: Rick Benninghove was responsive to all my needs be it small or large. He is impeccable, personable , and has excellent communication skills with tenant. I would recommend Florida Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals as my first choice in Florida.
Bruce B : You and Katie were so helpful throughout our stay. We really appreciate all you did for us.
Dr Chris: My beach rental on longboat key Florida was and is perfect in every way and form. I would like to cite The exemplary service provided too me from Florida Gulf Coast Rentals is and has always been perfect and professional. Thanks again to the team at F.G.C.V.R and for treating me like family.
Mary: This was my first time renting from Florida Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals, and it was a very positive experience. Rick and Katie were there to greet me when I arrived. The apartment was very clean and well equipped and had beautiful gulf views. Rick helped me connect to the internet and helped me set-up my Roku, which was much appreciated.
