Sarasota Tours: 7 Fun Ways to See This Coastal Gem

Sarasota has been refereed to as Florida’s Cultural Coast due to the city’s arts and culture scene. However, visitors shouldn’t overlook the area’s natural beauty and history. Scenic bays and beaches, wildlife, and The Ringling Brothers are just a few examples of what to expect. Read on for the top Sarasota tours and get ready to see the city.

Sarasota Tours for Culture, Cruising and Natural Beauty

sarasota tours nature siesta beach

Sea Life Kayak Adventures

Sea Life serves Sarasota, Lido Key and Siesta Key areas. Book a guided or self-guided tour, and explore one of the most popular kayaking spots in the area.

Visitors select from morning or afternoon mangrove tunnel tours. While kayaking, see manatees, dolphins, sting rays and waterfowl. Each tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, or rent a kayak for an extended half-day trip.

Liquid Blue Outfitters

Another kayak rental company in Sarasota is Liquid Blue Outfitters. This operator offers guided kayak tours and rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

Outdoor enthusiasts embark on a two-hour trip into local mangrove tunnels. On the tour, watch dolphins, manatees, conch, sea urchin, and different birds and fish. For something different, rent a stand-up paddleboard and ride calm waters.

sarasota siesta key fishing tour

Siesta Key Fishing Charters

Siesta Key Fishing Charters ranks among the largest fishing charters on the Gulf Coast. Anglers can plan inshore, nearshore and offshore excursions, with each trip targeting different fish.

Inshore tours search for redfish, snapper and Spanish mackerel. Nearshore options venture 3 to 4 miles off the beach where anglers fish for grouper and kingfish. For a deep-sea trip, head 8 miles into the Gulf to catch cobia, tuna and cuda. In addition, Siesta Key Fishing Charters will clean and store fish, so guests can take them home.

Key Sailing

This sailing charter hosts groups and private sailing trips in Sarasota. Key Sailing has three different options, so guests can customize their adventure.

For a short trip, book the two-hour bay tour perfect for families in the morning. The three-hour or sunset tour ranks as the most popular and visits Ringling Mansion. The four-hour option is available for private tours only and lets guests take the helm. Each tour takes place on a 41-foot Morgan yacht complete with bathrooms.

sarasota tours dolphin sailing

LeBarge Tropical Cruises

For over 30 years, LeBarge has provided laid-back Sarasota tours for large groups. Pick from three options, including morning dolphin and manatee, afternoon nature and sightseeing, and evening sunset cruises.

The dolphin tour educates passengers about marine life and protection efforts. Additionally, sightseers hear about the area’s history and folklore. On the sunset cruise, enjoy the view, food and live music. LeBarge also hosts moonlight cruises for guests 21 and older.

Sarasota By Segway Tours

Want to see this lively city? Plan a Segway tour. Sarasota By Segway Tours offers guided two-hour rides through the popular neighborhoods.

Each tour ventures into downtown Sarasota, the bayfront, Main Street Ringling Bridge, St. Armand’s Circle and Island Park, home to Lido Beach. Tours depart three times per day, ensuring visitors find the best option for their schedules. Riders should note: Segways are best for guests 12 and older.

Key Culinary Tours

Sarasota encourages creativity, which can be sampled at area restaurants. The best way to experience the area’s top restaurants is taking a Sarasota food tour. Key Culinary Tours offers two tours in Sarasota and additional tours in nearby Venice and Lido Key.

Those vacationing in Sarasota have different tours based on tastes and interests. For example, Savor St. Armand’s spends an afternoon in the historical area sampling local food. In downtown, try international flavors, signature favorites and chef-led farmers market picks. For an added adventure, book Venice culinary tour or Lido culinary bike tour.

After picking some Sarasota tours, browse vacation rentals in Sarasota-Siesta Key.

Visiting with someone special? Check out the most romantic restaurants in Sarasota.