Gay Sarasota
Sarasota is one of the cities on Florida’s Gulf Coast. It is the gateway to rich cultural heritage, abundance of attractions and activities, and world-class amenities. Sarasota is an important beach destination, undoubtedly one of Florida's best and most beautiful.
There are distinct rainy and dry seasons in Sarasota. The rainy season lasts from June to September, while the dry season lasts from October to May.
Sarasota has a laid-back feel and it is the ideal place to experience coastal living in Florida. It is known for its eclectic population, with many of its residents descending from circus performers, veterans and sailors.
Photo Credit: Yanny Mishchuk
What do you want to discover?
Top Things to See and Do in Sarasota
MUST DO: Attractions & Activities
MUST VISIT: Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Local Expert: Gay Scene in Sarasota
Although the gay scene in Sarasota is not as expansive as that in larger coastal cities, it is definitely blooming. There are plenty of LGBT events and activities happening on a weekly basis to make up for it. One of them is Sarasota Pride which has become a big success and it occupies an entire week of different activities, parties, and drag shows. Aside from that, the city also hosts other LGBT+ focused events such as the ‘Embracing our Difference’ festival and the Harvey Milk Festival.
Photo Credit: Michelle Diamond
Best Time to Visit Sarasota
When is the best time to visit Sarasota? March to May and September to November are excellent periods to go there when temperatures and prices are manageable. Anytime is actually a great time. At any time of the year, there is something special happening in Sarasota.
Photo Credit: Tessa Wilson
Top Things to See and Do in Sarasota
1) Myakka River State Park
2) The Ringling
3) Ca' d'Zan
4) Lido Beach
5) Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
6) Sarasota National Cemetery
7) Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
8) Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary
9) St. Armands Circle
10) Siesta Key Beach
Photo Credit: Tony Williams
MUST DO Sarasota Attractions & Activities
Sarasota is one of the most picturesque cities in Florida. Besides great scenery and wonderful photo opportunities, the city offers a wide array of attractions to provide quality recreation and entertainment for people of all ages. Treat yourself to diverse dining, enriching arts and culture, shopping districts of all sorts and natural Florida fun. Each moment is your own here in Sarasota.
Sarasota is not shy of beaches at all! It has many miles of white sandy beaches, including the most famous of all: Siesta Key and an official gay beach over at North Lido.
Photo Credit: Danaisa Rodriguez
MUST EAT Sarasota Gay-Friendly Dining
Sarasota is literally a seafood haven. While most streets have at least one beach-themed restaurant and almost every establishment offers a catch of the day, you can also find many restaurants serving innovative dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Oasis Restaurant & Bar is gay-friendly and is a safe place for the community to come together, eat and drink and be entertained.
MUST VISIT Sarasota Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Apart from the beaches and extraordinary complex of museums, Sarasota has a vibrant nightlife and a number of gay clubs and bars.
The main and oldest gay bar of Sarasota, Purple Rhino, is still standing and it's lively as ever. It is the perfect place to meet gay people in Sarasota, FL.
Go to Oasis on a Friday night for the weekly drag show. It's a drag bar, a strip club, and a dance club all wrapped up in one.
The Pangea Alchemy Lab is a very hip gay friendly speakeasy lounge in Sarasota and is famous for its craft cocktails and sleek environment.
Travel Safety Tips
From on-the-water adventures to shopping experiences, Sarasota has plenty of ways for you to social distance outdoors. You can visit Sarasota County beaches and attractions, as long as you keep some important safety restrictions and recommendations in mind. You may also want to check the Sarasota County Florida Health website for local updates.
Submit Your Content to be Featured on GayTravel.com
Are you well traveled? Want to contribute content to GayTravel.com, as well as to our widespread readership? From photos to recommendations to travel tips, we would love to see it all! Submit your content to be featured here.
Sarasota Photos:
