Beaches, boating, golf, dining, shopping, theater -- there's always something exciting going on in Sarasota. Sophisticated or casual, upscale or economical, it's all just minutes away.

Each area of Sarasota County has its own personality, and our visitors are delighted to find more vacation variety here than they ever expected. The City of Sarasota, with its active downtown and arts and theater district, still has a friendly, small town feel. Luxurious Longboat Key's manicured beach resorts and condos also offer world-class tennis, golf and dining. Laid-back Siesta Key has the feel of a tropical island, with sugar white sand officially designated "the whitest, finest beach sand in the world." St. Armand's Circle is home to gourmet restaurants and chic shops featuring the best items from around the world.

Once known primarily as a vacation or retirement destination, today's Sarasota is home to diversity. A great year-round climate, expanding employment opportunities, abundant leisure time activities and excellent schools attract creative entrepreneurs, skilled workers and professionals who want to thrive in a community where life is fun. Almost half of Sarasota County's population is in the prime working age range of 25 to 64. No matter what your age or stage, there's always something interesting to do in Sarasota.

Located on the Florida Gulf Coast, about 60 miles south of Tampa, Sarasota combines a leisurely coastal lifestyle with a worldly sophistication. No longer just a tourist destination and retirement haven, Sarasota has become a diversified community with an expanding economic base, skilled workers and professionals, and one of the best school systems in the state. The cultural capital of Florida, it is known for its culture offerings, from the Ringling Museum of Art, the state museum of Florida, to its own symphony, opera and ballet. Read about Sarasota's accolades.