Sarasota County

Sarasota County, with a population of approximately 450,000, is widely known as Florida's Cultural Coast. The county seat is Sarasota, a sophisticated city that punches far above its weight in arts, culture, dining, and natural beauty. The county forms the northern anchor of the Southwest Florida region.

The cultural scene in Sarasota is extraordinary. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art — Florida's state art museum — houses an exceptional collection of European paintings, the historic Ca' d'Zan mansion, and the Ringling Circus Museum. The Sarasota Opera performs a full repertoire season. Asolo Repertory Theatre is one of the premier regional theaters in the country. Florida Studio Theatre, the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, and Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall round out a cultural calendar that rivals cities many times Sarasota's size.

Siesta Key Beach, made of 99% pure quartz crystal, has been rated the number one beach in the United States by TripAdvisor and Dr. Beach. The powder-fine sand stays cool underfoot even on the hottest days, and the beach offers free parking and lifeguard service. Siesta Key Village adds shops, restaurants, and nightlife steps from the sand.

Venice, in the southern part of the county, is known as the Shark Tooth Capital of the World. Prehistoric shark teeth wash ashore regularly, and fossil hunting on Venice Beach is a beloved activity for families and collectors. Venice's charming downtown along Venice Avenue features Italian-inspired architecture, independent shops, and a year-round calendar of events.

North Port, the county's largest city by area, is growing rapidly and is home to Warm Mineral Springs — a natural mineral spring with water that maintains a constant 87 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The spring has been used for its therapeutic properties for centuries.

Lakewood Ranch, a master-planned community spanning Sarasota and Manatee counties, is one of the best-selling master-planned communities in the nation. It offers a range of housing options, top-rated schools, and a vibrant Main Street town center.

Longboat Key, a barrier island shared with Manatee County, offers an exclusive, quiet beach lifestyle with luxury resorts and private residences. Osprey and Nokomis provide a more laid-back coastal experience along the southern Sarasota coastline.