Things to do in Sarasota go far beyond relaxing on soft white sand on shores of clear turquoise waters and extend to art galleries, museums, open-air markets, and championship golf. You can tour historic sites, hit the Red Bug Shough Preserve for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. You can get pampered at a local resort spa. Check out the Red Barn Flea Market for deals on everything you can imagine.
Head for Venice Beach and find fossilized shark teeth or visit the Ringling Art Museum to see free classic art exhibits. Finally, attend the festivals going on all year long.