Tampa International Airport 1 hr 5
Sarasota Bay (25 min)
Named an estuary of national significance, this subtropical, coastal lagoon is popular for kayaking. Robinson Preserve (17 min)
Nature preserve with hiking & biking trails, picnic areas, a boat launch & observation platforms. Bean Point (20 min) Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge (1 hr)
Former military base is now an endangered wildlife preserve accessible only by water. Sarasota Jungle Gardens (24 min)
Historic attraction featuring more than 150 animals & shows in a tropical setting. Sunshine Skyway Bridge (34 min) DeSoto National Memorial Park (15 min)
Nod to the famed explorer's landing site with living-history camp, exhibits, shore & nature trails. Ca' d'Zan (24 min)
Once home to the Ringlings, this circa-1924 mansion draws inspiration from the palazzos of Venice. Bean Point Beach (19 min)
Peaceful locale known for its wide sandy beach, tranquil waters & stunning sunset views. Manatee Public Beach (9 min)
Park featuring a beach, a playground, picnic tables, grills, bike racks, restrooms, showers & more. Coquina Beach (7 min)
Long public swimming beach featuring picnic tables, cabanas & play areas, plus a casual cafe. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art (22 min)
State art museum founded by the circus magnate with 31 galleries in a pink Renaissance-style palace. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium (24 min)
Aquarium with a stingray touch tank & shark tank plus manatees in the nearby mammal center. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature (20 min)
A planetarium, aquarium & history museum under 1 roof with dioramas & films. Fort De Soto Park (55 min)
Beaches, camping, trails & a historic fort in a vast park spread over multiple connected islands. | 
