about Lido Key

Lido Key is a barrier island off the coast of Sarasota. The narrow natural reef offers pristine sandy beaches along its west coast overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The island features a scenic forest park and shifting sand dunes. Enjoy panoramic views of the Sarasota skyline and Sarasota Bay from the bustling beach bars and restaurants on the boardwalk.

Lido Key’s beach is divided into three sections. The quiet north beach, with its fine white sand, invites beach strolls and sunbathing. The beach is much less lively than the other beaches in the Sarasota area. Here you can relax in front of the dunes. However, there are no lifeguards on this stretch of beach, where strong currents are to be expected.

On the south side of the island is South Lido Park and a shady pine forest. During your trip or short getaway to Lido Key, explore the forested shoreline with a walk along the park’s forest trail. Watch for luxury yachts anchored near Big Pass, an ocean passage that connects Sarasota Bay to the Gulf of Mexico.

Between the north and south sections is Lido Beach, a spacious, family-friendly beach. In addition to a snack stand offering snacks and drinks, there are washrooms, a swimming pool, and lifeguard services. Picnic tables are available for your use at Lido Beach. Bring a cooler bag and enjoy a picnic. Afterwards, visit the observation tower, which is also accessible to strollers and wheelchairs.

From one of the casual shoreline bars, you’ll have an unobstructed view of the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico. Treat yourself to a special culinary experience at one of the restaurants located on the top floor of the tall resort buildings. The panoramic view of the golden sunset over the Gulf of Mexico to the west and the twinkling city lights to the east are the highlights of an unforgettable evening.

Lido Key is located west of downtown Sarasota and is connected to the mainland by the John Ringling Causeway, which runs through the lively St. Armands Key neighborhood of shopping and restaurants.

On the way to Lido Key, you’ll pass Bird Key, which was man-made by John Ringling and is now an exclusive residential area, with the largest homes on the Bay.

You will pass the Sarasota Yacht Club, which impresses with its modern architecture and is only accessible to members. In downtown Lido Key, the wonderful St. Armand’s Circle invites you to stroll with fine stores, gift stores, boutiques, galleries and restaurants for every taste. Lido Key has beautiful beaches and to the south is South Lido Park. There you can paddle through mangrove forests by kayak or canoe.

Free parking is available near the central beach section of Lido Beach. Beach access is free of charge. Only for the use of the swimming pool there is a small fee.

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