You cannot wait to enjoy a fun-filled trip with your family but are busy wondering about the perfect spot for it. This is a common scenario in every household where the main questions include where to go, what to do, and where to stay. While hunting for the perfect spot for a family-friendly vacation, you would require something that has exciting and fun family activities in Sarasota, FL for all age groups. Though the focus usually lies on kids, it is also necessary to opt for a destination that appeals to adults too. If beach and sand are the words that excite you and your group, you can check out the beautiful Gulf Coast in Florida. From the gorgeous Key West to exciting Sarasota, the coast has many fun destinations for the entire group. Spend some relaxing moments on the coast while admiring the blue ocean or dive right into the ocean while enjoying fun water sports, the options are endless. There is so much to do and enjoy that you would not have to worry about killing any dead time. Sarasota is a family-friendly city with a vibrant ambiance to its credit. It is known for its pristine beaches with white sand and blue waters. But, it is also known for its culture with museums, tourist attractions, nature preserves, and much more. You can easily spend a fun day with your family while visiting some unique spots, sampling diverse cuisines, and participating in both indoor and outdoor adventures.
Plenty of Family-Friendly Events for the Trip
Sarasota is a vibrant city so you can look forward to having a great time. It is also a budget-friendly city so you would not have to break the bank while looking for family-friendly attractions. One of the best spots that can easily entertain you for hours is the pristine Siesta Key Beach. This white sand beach has miles of shoreline where you can have a great time with your folks. It is exciting for water sports and activities like surfing, swimming, kayaking, sailing, and much more. Kids can play in the sand while adults can admire the changing colors of the sky. It is also a perfect spot for a picnic where you can relish home-cooked meals while bonding with your folks. After spending a day on this beach, the next adventure awaits at the gorgeous Lido Key Beach. Here you can find picnic areas, white sand, restrooms, and a happening vibe. If you and your kids love to meet animals of different species, you must visit the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. Find a variety of sea animals while learning about their habitat, food habits, activities, and much more. Here, you can see coral reefs, sea jellies, otters, and alligators.
Spend an exciting time at one of the picturesque parks in the area. The Oscar Scherer State Park is a nice destination where you can enjoy a picnic with your group. It has many play areas for kids. Spread over more than 1400 acres, the spot is blessed with lots of natural beauty. It is an excellent idea for a nature trip where you can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking. The park also has designated areas where children can do activities like snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and rollerblading. Nothing can match the joy of spending a day exploring different birds and learning about their sound, color, activities, and habitat. This is possible at the Sarasota Audubon Nature Center where you can go on guided tours to learn about the different birds. The Sarasota Jungle Gardens is the place to be if you would like to see more than 200 different species of animals and birds. It is a fun spot for kids where they can see a wide range of native and exotic animals. Spread over more than 37,000 acres, the Myakka River State Park is another famous family-friendly place where children can have a great time. Another nature trip awaits at this destination where you can see the different varieties of trees, animals, and birds. Some of the popular activities include bird watching, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and camping. If you and your group enjoy walking, you cannot miss the unique Legacy trail. This popular 18.5-mile long trail cuts through the city taking you through downtown districts, suburbs, and other spots. You can enjoy a relaxing walk while checking out the city on foot.
For an outdoor adventure, we can suggest the Celery Fields. This 400-acre site is a fun outdoor spot where you can see a variety of birds. The picturesque landscape has deep ponds, canals, marshlands, and trees. You can enjoy activities like birdwatching, fishing, wildlife viewing, and nature photography.
Choose a Perfect Accommodation
With so many family-friendly activities in Sarasota, you cannot afford to miss all the fun. Along with all the ideas for activities, you would require a safe, comfortable, and clean accommodation. Check out the different options with us at Rent the Keys where you can see the different vacation rentals. Our fully furnished vacation rentals can make you feel at home. While staying with a group, you can choose a big house with a large living area, dining area, a functional kitchen, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and outdoor amenities. Enjoy both private and common areas that make it easy while staying with a big group. Get in touch with us at the earliest to book an impressive vacation rental.
The year-round sun and warmth of Florida make it the ideal destination any time of year you need a break. Pack your bags and gather your friends and family for a fun and exciting fall vacation full of sand, water, and sun, as well as some fun indoor activities for when there’s a little chill in the air. Set your sights on the Florida Keys and Sarasota and their many exciting offerings, and you’ll build one of the best Florida fall vacations to keep you happy and busy throughout your stay.
Anna Maria Island Historical Museum
Take some time out of your busy schedule of fall activities to learn about one of the area’s barrier islands. The Anna Maria Island Historical Museum on nearby Anna Maria Island is loaded with history and treasures from the locale’s past. Visit the old city jail, now an Anna Maria tourist spot but previously the actual city jail that was in use until the 1940s. Learn about the many Hollywood movies shot in the area, like Palmetto and The Perfect Storm, and even early life on the island dating all the way back to 700 AD and evidence of Native American cultures.
Beaches
A Sarasota-area vacation without a visit to its beaches, no matter the time of year, is virtually unheard of. Pack up your group and your beach gear and make the short trip to the sand. While taking a dip in the shimmering waters of the Gulf of Mexico may be a bit chilly, there are plenty of things to do on land, including taking a walk, sitting and soaking up the sun and read, or watching the kids build sandcastles. Whether you choose one of our rentals in Sarasota or surround yourself with water on one of the keys, the many area beaches are a top priority for any family getaway.
Festivals and Fairs
Each one of the Florida Keys, as well as mainland towns like Sarasota, celebrates fall in its own way. Check with the local chamber of commerce or event organizers to find out what special things may be going on. From Oktoberfest and fall harvest and local arts and crafts fairs to special island celebrations like Anna Maria Island Bayfest, there will be plenty of fall flair to enjoy on your Sarasota getaway.
Golf
For the golfers in the group that want to golf near the Gulf, you can set sail with your clubs to one of the two courses on Longboat Key or have the only water you encounter to be the water hazards on the courses around Sarasota. Make tee times at Sarasota courses like Stoneybrook, the Meadows, and TPC Prestancia. The island courses both call the Resort at Longboat Key Club home. Links on Longboat and the Harbourside course are both challenging courses that not only bring on-course water and sand hazards into play but potentially the waters of the Gulf, too!
Bicycle Rentals
Like on many islands, there barrier islands of the Sarasota area have several places that a motor vehicle can’t go. Instead, explore the many walking and bike trails that let you see the sights of the Florida Keys during fall. You will find a bike to fit the needs of each group member, like cruisers, tricycles for added balance and basket space, a romantic bicycle built for two, and even children’s bikes and adult bikes with baby seats. Many rental companies provide complimentary locks and baskets with your rental. Ask about safety gear like lights and helmets, and perks like delivery to your accommodations.
Fall Fun in Florida
When you book a getaway with Rent the Keys, you won’t be short on fun fall activities to fill your time. From spending the day on the sand to spending the day lounging in your vacation rental, you’ll be able to build a getaway that is uniquely yours. Relax and unwind after a fun-filled day. Enjoy a one-bedroom for your small family or fall sweetheart getaway, all the way up to six bedrooms for a group reunion. Make a home-cooked meal in your unit’s fully equipped kitchen, many with stainless steel appliances. Enjoy the meal in the large living/dining areas, or in a private outdoor space. Relax in a private bedroom, or gather the family, pop some popcorn, and watch your favorite movie. Choose a premium unit for perks like a fireplace, double ovens, flat-screen TVs, a private pool, and more. Include the whole family by inquiring about select rentals that allow your fur babies to stay.
Contact us today to book your fall fun Florida getaway!
The warmth and sun of Florida are an attraction any time of year, and the fun of an island vacation is nearly irresistible. Add some patriotic flair and take a refreshing respite this 4th of July. Pack your bags and prepare for fun in the sun, water, and even on land as you check out patriotic events including island-wide celebrations, parades, and more in addition to many other exciting activities the area has to offer to keep you busy during your Florida Keys July 4th stay.
Anna Maria Island Fireworks
As the sun goes down, look to the sky for a patriotic way to light up the night on Anna Maria Island. On this 4th of July, the Sandbar Annual Fireworks Spectacular hosted by the Sandbar Restaurant, located at the north end of the island, is set to explode. The patriotic display lights up the night from near the restaurant’s wedding pavilion, but the show can be seen from almost any part of the island! For a “front-row seat,” take advantage of the restaurant’s exclusive VIP package. It includes a private area to watch the fireworks, delicious food prepared by the restaurant’s culinary team, an open bar, party favors, and valet parking. Fireworks start just after dusk.
Cape Coral Red, White & Boom!
The City of Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department is presenting what is often considered to be the best fireworks display and 4th of July party in Southwest Florida. There will be food trucks, a “Freedom 5K” race, live entertainment, and more. Purchase an adult or kids VIP ticket for extras like a BBQ catered meal, beverages, game and face painting areas, air-conditioned restrooms, and a prime viewing area for the fireworks show. Children under two are free, and children older than 13 will need to purchase an adult ticket to the VIP area. The Red, White, and Boom fireworks take place on Cape Coral Parkway at the foot of Cape Coral Bridge. The light show begins at 9:30 p.m. Please no pets, personal fireworks, or outside alcohol.
Fourth of July Parade
Enjoy an island 4th of July parade like no other. The Anna Maria Island Privateers are hosting a 4th of July parade and celebration. The parade is set to start at Coquina Beach and end at City Pier in Anna Maria. The Privateers will board their boat-float, the Skullywag, to lead the parade filled with other people and groups, as well as the island’s elected officials and staff in parade float-golf carts. The parade starts at 10 a.m. at Coquina Beach and moves north along the island where it ends at City Pier Park in Anna Maria around 12:30 p.m.
Sarasota Bayfront Fireworks
Check out the Sarasota Bay side of the islands on July 4th. You’ll love celebrating America’s birthday with a unique annual celebration that benefits youth. Suncoast Charities for Children is sponsoring the show that will light up the sky around dusk after you’ve enjoyed the Sarasota Bayfront Parade and other activities.
Longboat Key Celebration
Longboat Key will be decked out in red, white, and blue this 4th of July. Dress in your most festive red, white, and blue and prepare to meet Uncle Sam. Make sure the kids sport their best red, white, and blue, along with you, and if your furry friend made the trip with you, give them some patriotic swag as both kids and families can walk with their pets in the parade. Residents and guests can decorate cars, floats, scooters, strollers, golf carts, bikes, and wagons, while floats sponsored by island businesses will go by on four-wheeled vehicles such as golf carts and automobiles. The Annual Freedom Fest and Hot Diggity Dog Parade will begin at 9 a.m. at Town Hall.
Island Patriotism in the Keys
When you book your fun-filled 4th of July getaway to the Florida Keys and Sarasota, you won’t be short on activities to fill every minute of every day. With so many activities, both patriotic and otherwise to choose from, you’ll find something to do to keep the entire group entertained and happy. Choose a one-bedroom for your small family or a patriotic getaway with your sweetheart, all the way up to six bedrooms for a 4th of July reunion! Prepare a mouth-watering home-cooked meal in your rental’s fully equipped kitchen or use the provided BBQ in many units. Enjoy morning coffee, or a relaxing drink as you watch the sunset from a private balcony or patio. Recharge with a nap or a good night’s sleep in your own bedroom or spread out in the spacious living area to read a book or watch a movie. Choose a premium unit for upgrades like stainless steel appliances, double ovens, flat-screen TVs, and more.
Contact us to book your stay full of 4th of July fun and memories today!
The year-round sun and warmth of Florida makes it the ideal destination any time of year. Pack your bags and gather your friends and family for a fun and exciting fall vacation full of fun, sand, and sun, as well as some fun indoor activities in the Florida Keys for when there’s a little chill in the air. Set your sights on the Florida Keys and its many exciting offerings and you’ll build a fall vacation to keep you happy and busy throughout your stay and memories to last a lifetime.
Anna Maria Island Historical Museum
Take some time out of your busy schedule of fall activities in the Florida Keys to learn about where you’ve chosen to stay. The Anna Maria Island Historical Museum is loaded with history and treasures from the locale’s past. Visit the old city jail, now an Anna Maria tourist spot but previously the actual city jail that was in use until the 1940s. Learn about the many Hollywood movies shot in the area, like Palmetto and The Perfect Storm, and even early life on the island dating all the way back to evidence of Native American cultures in 700 AD.
Beaches
An island vacation without a visit to its beaches, no matter the time of year, is virtually unheard of. Pack up your group and your beach gear and make the short trip to the sand. While taking a dip in the shimmering waters of the Gulf of Mexico may be a bit chilly, there are plenty of things to do on land – like take a walk, sit and soak up the sun and read, or watch the kids build sand castles. Whether you choose one of our rentals on the mainland or surround yourself with water, the many area beaches are a top priority for any family getaway. The best part?
Anna Maria Island Bayfest
The event is back for its 20th anniversary. Visitors and islanders alike come together at the event for food, fun, arts and crafts, a car show, live music all day long and more. The one-day event is October 16, 2021, from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Admission is free, and transportation to the Pine Avenue location is free on the Anna Maria Trolley.
Other Festivals and Fairs
Each one of the Florida Keys celebrates fall in its own way. Check with local chamber of commerce or event organizers to find out what special things may be going on. From Oktoberfest to fall harvest and local arts and crafts fairs, there will be plenty of fall flair to enjoy on your island getaway.
Golf
For the golfers in the group that want to golf near the Gulf, there are two Longboat Key courses you won’t want to miss. Both courses call the Resort at Longboat Key Club home. Links on Longboat is a par 71, 18-hole course full of small waterways running along one side of the fairway on many holes. Check the course website for tips on the “Signature holes” and how to play them. The Harbourside course is located three miles north of the Links on Longboat and is made up of three nine-hole courses so you can mix and match nines for your own unique 18-hole challenge. The “White Egret” nine features tight fairways, while you may drown your ball at any moment on the “Red Hawk.” You’ll have a taste of everything – including ample wind as well as nine of the 45 total “signature holes” of the club’s holes.
Bicycle Rentals
Like on many islands, there are several places that a motor vehicle can’t go. Gather the group and explore the many walking and bike trails that let you see the sights of the Florida Keys during fall that aren’t accessible by car. You will find a bike to fit the needs of each family member. You can rent single-seat bikes with or without gears (also known as cruisers), tricycles for added balance and basket space, a romantic bicycle built for two, and even children’s bikes and adult bikes with baby seats. Many rental companies provide complimentary locks and baskets with your rental. Ask about safety gear like lights and helmets, and perks like delivery to your accommodations.
Family Fun in Florida
When you and the family book a getaway with Rent the Keys, you won’t be short on fun, family-friendly activities to fill your time. From spending the day at the sand to spending the day lounging in your vacation rental, you’ll be able to build a family getaway that is uniquely yours. Relax and unwind in a private vacation rental after a fun-filled day. Enjoy a one-bedroom for your small family, all the way up to six bedrooms for a family reunion. We have single-family homes for extra privacy. For even more privacy and peace of mind, book a rental with a private garage. Make a family meal in your unit’s fully equipped kitchen, many with stainless steel appliances. Enjoy the meal in the large living/dining areas in many rentals, or in a private outdoor space. At the end of the day, relax in a private bedroom, or gather the family, pop some popcorn, and watch your favorite family movie. Choose a premium unit for perks like a fireplace, double ovens, flat screen TVs, private pool – some are even screened in for added protection from the hot Florida sun. Include the whole family by inquiring about select rentals that allow your fur babies to stay.
Contact us today to book your family fun Florida getaway!
The warmth and sun of Florida is an attraction any time of year. Pack your bags and prepare for fun in the sun, water, and even on land as you check out many of the exciting activities the area has to offer. While the weather may be perfect for the majority of your trip, you’ll want to prepare some activities in the Florida Keys for times when the weather doesn’t cooperate with your beach and outdoor schedule.
Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-tiki
The spa is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit, no matter how gloomy the weather. Head to the spa on Anna Maria Island to pamper yourself with a wide range of spa services, with a myriad of massage treatments you’ll love. Enhance the experience with reflexology, scalp soothing, warm stones, or a sea scrub. There are facials and other bodywork techniques to choose from, too. If you don’t want to brave the rain, someone will come to you to complete your relaxation at your rental. If you choose to visit the spa in person, you’ll be able to choose one of the many rooms in the spa. Come back when the sun is shining for treatment in their beachfront tiki hut. Keep in mind some of the add-on treatments may not be available in the hut, and wherever your treatment occurs, make sure to bring a mask.
Island Players
While movies may be a great way to pass a few hours on a rainy day, give your entertainment a live twist and take in a show by The Island Players. The Anna Maria Island group is the oldest community theater in Manatee County. When in season, they have shows Tuesday-Saturday, plus a Sunday matinee. If the rain hits on a Monday, you’ll be out of luck for a show, since that’s their day off. Make sure to visit their website, where you can check the schedule and book tickets beforehand.
Anna Maria Island Historical Museum
After you’ve spent plenty of time in the sunny, warm weather exploring the outdoor aspects of Anna Maria Island, use a rainy day to learn more about the history of the island at an indoor venue. The Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, near the old city jail, has plenty of information about the history and treasures of the island’s past. You can brave the rain to visit the jail, which used to be the city jail until the 1940s or stick to the museum and stay warm and dry. You’ll also learn about the many Hollywood movies shot on the island, like Palmetto and The Perfect Storm. Go way back in time and find evidence of Native American cultures that date back to 700 AD.
Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
Florida is one of the best places for a variety of nature’s best. From inland lakes and the picturesque shores of the coast of the shimmering Gulf of Mexico to wildlife that live on land and wildlife that inhabits the sea, there’s a lot to see and learn about the unique ecosystem of Florida. For some indoor fun on a rainy day when you can’t visit the beach, head to the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, formerly known as the South Florida Museum, located in Bradenton. You’ll want to prepare for fun and learning with many permanent exhibits, as well as a number of rotating exhibits, meaning no two visits will ever be the same! Make sure not to miss the manatee habitat where you can meet the manatees and learn about measures for manatee rehabilitation or visit the planetarium for an out-of-this-world show.
Rainy Day Fun Activities in the Florida Keys
When you book your fun-filled getaway to the Florida Keys, you won’t be short on activities to fill every minute of every day, even when the sun isn’t shining. With so many activities in the Florida Keys to choose from, you’ll find something to do to keep the entire group entertained and happy. Spend some time in your accommodations if you don’t feel like going out. From a one-bedroom for your small family or a getaway with your sweetheart, all the way up to six bedrooms for a family or group reunion, you’ll find something by Rent the Keys to fill the bill! Instead of getting wet when heading out to eat, stay warm and dry and prepare a mouth-watering home-cooked meal in your rental’s fully equipped kitchen. Recharge with a nap or a good night’s sleep in your own bedroom or spread out in the spacious living area to read a book or watch a movie. Indulge in a premium unit for upgrades like stainless steel appliances, double ovens, flat-screen TVs and more.
Contact us to book your stay full of all-weather memories today!