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Sarasota has a special magic. From stunning Gulf Coast sunsets and bay breezes to vibrant cafes, parks, museums and arts festivals, Sarasota attractions reflect the welcoming spirit and character of this coastal paradise.
Sarasota isn’t just a vacation spot — it’s a way of life. For those thinking of making the move, it might be the best decision you’ll ever make.
Whether you’re leaving city stresses behind to raise a family by the gulf or searching for the perfect retirement retreat, Sarasota offers a lifestyle that makes both dreams a reality. Let’s explore why new homes in Sarasota are truly irresistible.
Popular Sarasota Attractions
Sarasota offers a balance of serene escapes, sun-soaked beaches, a thriving cultural scene and plenty of community events to enjoy year-round.
Beaches and Outdoor Recreation
Life in Sarasota begins and ends with the beach. Siesta Key Beach, renowned for its ultra-soft quartz sand, consistently ranks among the nation’s best, offering breathtaking views and a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
For a quieter, more refined experience, Lido Key is ideal for exploring the nearby boutiques and bistros at St. Armands Circle. For those seeking true tranquility, Turtle Beach, at the southern tip of Siesta Key, delivers gentle waves, peaceful surroundings and the occasional dolphin sighting.
Looking for something more adventurous? Sarasota is a playground for nature lovers. You can bike along the Legacy Trail, kayak through the mangrove tunnels or paddleboard at sunset. State parks like Myakka River and Oscar Scherer offer endless hiking, bird watching and even a chance to spot an alligator or two.
Arts and Culture Scene
Sarasota attractions stand apart from other Florida coastal towns because they passionately embrace the arts. Known as Florida’s Cultural Coast, the city thrives as a hub for artists, galleries, theaters and creative expression at every turn.
At the heart of Sarasota is The Ringling, a world-class complex that includes a Circus Museum, Historic Asolo Theatre, Museum of Art and the lush Bayfront Gardens. For performance lovers, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall lets you enjoy Broadway shows, symphony performances and concerts along its glittering waterfront.
Near downtown Sarasota, you can wander through the Rosemary District and discover art galleries tucked into unexpected corners, while lively festivals transform entire blocks into open-air galleries.
Festivals and Community Events
There’s always something going on in Sarasota, with a consistent lineup of events that bring the community together.
Every spring, the Sarasota Film Festival draws crowds with indie films, red carpet moments and Q&As with your favorite filmmakers. Classical music lovers swoon over the Sarasota Music Festival, while art lovers count down to the annual Sarasota International Chalk Festival, where the streets come alive with jaw-dropping 3D art.
On a more casual note, Sarasota hosts weekly farmers markets, bursting with local produce, handmade goods and live music. Siesta Key Beach also hosts weekly drum circles — an inviting, family-friendly way to enjoy stunning sunsets and the laid-back coastal vibe.
Lifestyle in Sarasota
Sarasota offers a feast for foodies, a lively nightlife, eclectic shopping, a thriving local business scene and endless family-friendly activities to enjoy.
Dining and Nightlife
From seafood-focused tiki huts to candlelit dinners overlooking the bay, there’s no shortage of flavor here.
On Siesta Key, you’ll find spots like SKOB (Siesta Key Oyster Bar) buzzing with locals and tourists, while Downtown Sarasota is full of creative culinary options: fusion cuisine, craft cocktails and sidewalk cafes filled with live music.
Top spots include Blase Martini Bar, Marcel, Offshore Tapas and Wine Bar, Pie on Main, 99 Bottles Taproom and Cafe Gabbiano.
When the sun goes down, sip wine at the upscale Perspective rooftop lounge, catch a live jazz performance or dance under the stars at an open-air venue.
Shopping and Local Businesses
Retail therapy in Sarasota is anything but boring. St. Armands Circle is a shopper’s paradise with a European-style plaza brimming with designer boutiques, unique art shops and irresistible ice cream stands.
Downtown Sarasota is more eclectic, full of independent bookstores, vintage finds and local artisans selling everything from handmade jewelry to coastal-inspired decor. University Town Center has all your favorite big brands, with an ever-growing list of local eateries and fitness studios.
Sarasota takes pride in its local businesses, so shopping here feels like you’re supporting your neighbors. Sarasota Trading Co. has rare vintage treasures, Pineapple Bay Trading Co. has an array of tapestries and sarongs, while L. Boutique is full of contemporary fashion and body-care products.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re moving with kids, Sarasota might just be your parenting paradise. There are endless opportunities for your little ones to learn, play and explore.
Payne Park is right in the heart of downtown. It offers a whimsical, circus-themed playground with a splash pad. The Sarasota Jungle Gardens lets kids visit with flamingos, lemurs and reptiles, while the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium offer fun, hands-on marine science experiences.
Add in The Selby Butterfly Garden, children’s theatres and a calendar packed with kid-friendly festivals, and it’s easy to see why families love Sarasota.
Living in Sarasota: What Residents Should Know
Before moving to Sarasota, be sure to explore other Sarasota attractions like housing options, neighborhoods, schools and transportation access, to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
Unique Neighborhoods and Housing Options
From beachfront condos to gated communities, there are new homes in Sarasota to suit every style.
If you’d like to be closer to the cultural scene, look for neighborhoods near downtown or the historic charm of Arlington Park. If you dream of waking up to the Gulf breeze, check out the barrier islands for some of the most scenic properties in Florida.
Bradenton boasts a vibrant coastal lifestyle with stunning beaches, a thriving arts and cultural scene and plenty of family-friendly amenities, while Parrish offers a peaceful, small-town charm surrounded by open green spaces, perfect for those seeking tranquility and easy access to Tampa and St. Petersburg.
Medallion Home Communities
Did you know that Medallion Home offers its own distinct communities in the greater Sarasota area? These include:
- Hampton Lakes: A gated neighborhood featuring spacious homesites of 4 plus acres and horse-friendly land, ideal for those seeking space and privacy.
- Legends Bay: Waterfront living along Sarasota Bay, with easy access to the Gulf, shopping and schools.
- Watercolor Place: A thriving community of villas, single-family and coach homes with shared amenities that include a luxury pool, outdoor kitchen and fitness center.
- Aqua: A private, relaxed, coastal community built around a scenic lagoon with resort-style amenities. It also offers townhomes for an upscale experience with less maintenance.
Each community is thoughtfully designed to blend quality construction with a distinctive lifestyle and stunning surroundings.
Schools and Education
Sarasota is known for its strong public school system, with many schools receiving top ratings in the state, placing second in Florida for the Best School District and earning an “A” grade from the Florida Department of Education.
There’s also a wide array of private and charter school options, as well as excellent colleges like Ringling College of Art & Design, University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee, and New College of Florida.
Transportation and Accessibility
Getting around Sarasota is relatively easy, especially if you live near your favorite amenities and shops. Most residents rely on personal cars, but the city offers public transportation, bike-friendly routes and a charming trolley system.
During peak tourist season, traffic does increase, especially near the beaches, but locals quickly learn the rhythm of the city and adjust their commutes accordingly.
Tips for New Residents
As a Sarasota resident, you can truly make it feel like home by embracing the seasons and staying actively involved in the community.
Getting Involved in the Community
One of the best things about moving to Sarasota is how quickly it starts to feel like home. Residents here are warm, welcoming and highly engaged. From beach yoga classes and community gardening to volunteer groups and book clubs, there are countless ways to connect with your neighbors.
Sarasota is great for attending a local art walk, joining a neighborhood association or just striking up a conversation at the farmers market. You’ll find community around every corner.
Seasonal Considerations
Florida summers are hot, but Sarasota’s coastal breezes keep things comfortable and the warm winters more than make up for the warm months.
Fall and spring are especially beautiful, and if you time your move during these seasons, you’ll enjoy lighter traffic, greater housing availability and a smoother transition as you settle in.
Make the Move to Sarasota With Medallion Home
With dazzling beaches, rich culture, welcoming neighborhoods and unforgettable sunsets, Sarasota offers a lifestyle that you’ll fall in love with again and again.
Ready to call Sarasota home? Medallion Home is here to help you start your next chapter. From modern coastal homes to family-friendly communities and luxurious retreats, we make finding new homes in Sarasota easier than ever.
Visit Medallion Home today to explore model homes, browse available properties or discover a community that’s calling your name. Sarasota is waiting for you, and your dream home is just a click away.
