I have vacationed in Florida since I was little to visit family there, had my last family reunion there and got engaged there :) . Recently Morgie and I went to Sarasota and Anna Maria Island and here is some suggestions of fun things to do in that area.
In Sarasota + Surrounding Areas
* Visit Lido Beach , Sanibel and Siesta Key for the beautiful beaches with white powdery sand and great shells. These beaches are always in the top beaches for the country.
* For the kiddies or nature lover-
Mote Marine Aquarium - touch tank, sharks , manatees, eels oh my!
*Sarasota Jungle Gardens - I haven't been here in years but Kelly and I used to love the bird show and seeing the alligators.
* Ringling Museum
Great art and history. Lilly Pulitzer had an event there that looked amazing! http://blog.lillypulitzer.com/2011/02/09/ringling-museum-event-party-in-pink/
*St.Armands Circle
Full of great shopping with everything from tshirt shops to a Lilly Store . Also filled with many restaurants the Columbia ( try their 1905 salad, mojitos and sangria ) , Tommy Bahama Bar and Kilwins chocolate shop mmmm.
Mudda with Poseidon in St.Armands Circle
*Marina Jack's Restaurant
Great view of the ships , I would go here for the views and drinks.
Anna Maria Island
* Martiniville- drinks are a little pricey but are from fresh ingredients! Try the island taster that comes with ahi tuna, chicken satay and veggie spring rolls with a side of mango infused sweet potatoes. yummmm!
* The Sandbar restaurant
Scott proposed to me here after dinner. It is on the beach with many weddings occurring here.
* Sand Dollar
Best shop with beachy finds for the home and great inexpensive jewelry.
* Dcoy Ducks
Well this one may need a disclaimer. If you want to go to a place that's a smokey dive but alot of fun this is the place!
The island is great to explore for it's food, shopping and beaches and relaxation!
Even though we just drove by the Ringling Museum it was breathtakingly beautiful!! I can see why Lilly had an event there, and it would have been so much fun to go to it. Love the pictures ;) let's go back!
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