Day Trips from Sarasota: 5 Easy Getaways Worth the Drive

Looking to explore beyond the beaches and bayfront charm of Sarasota? Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are plenty of unforgettable destinations just a short drive away. These day trips from Sarasota offer everything from natural beauty to small-town charm—perfect for a weekend escape or a spontaneous weekday adventure.

A Few Ideas for Planning the Perfect Day Trip from Sarasota

1. Boca Grande: Old Florida Charm on Gasparilla Island

Just over an hour south of Sarasota, Boca Grande feels like a step back in time. This quiet, upscale island town on Gasparilla Island is beloved for its sugar-white beaches, quaint village streets, and stately homes wrapped in lush tropical landscaping. The town has preserved its historic charm, with no high-rises and limited commercial development, creating an exclusive yet welcoming atmosphere.

The island’s Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, built in 1890, offers a small museum and panoramic views of the Gulf. Golf carts are the preferred mode of transport here, giving the area a casual, breezy feel. Spend your day lounging on secluded beaches, shell hunting, or enjoying lunch at the famous Pink Elephant restaurant.

Highlights:

• Quiet beaches with turquoise waters

• The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and museum

• Golf cart-friendly streets

• Local seafood and boutique shopping

2. Myakka River State Park: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Located about 40 minutes inland, Myakka River State Park is one of Florida’s oldest and most ecologically diverse state parks. Spanning over 37,000 acres, this massive wilderness offers a glimpse into Florida’s untouched beauty. It’s perfect for hiking, wildlife photography, kayaking, and simply breathing in the fresh, pine-scented air.

Visitors often spot alligators, wild turkeys, deer, and even bobcats along the trails. The Myakka Canopy Walkway lets you walk among the treetops and offers a sweeping view of the park from its observation tower. The scenic lake and river are ideal for airboat or tram tours, and there’s even a rustic café for refueling.

Highlights:

• Spot alligators, deer, and over 100 bird species

• Walk through treetops on the Myakka Canopy Walkway

• Scenic drives and river boat tours

• Great picnic spots and rustic charm

3. Venice: A Quaint Coastal Downtown with Shark Teeth

Only 30 minutes south of Sarasota, Venice blends Old Florida character with a Mediterranean flair. The historic downtown area is lined with palm trees, fountains, boutique shops, and Italian-style architecture—thanks to city planning in the 1920s. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a coffee, explore a bookstore, and find a hidden antique shop all on the same block.

But Venice is also famous for its beaches, especially Caspersen Beach, where fossilized shark teeth wash ashore daily. It’s not uncommon to see families and collectors sifting through sand with special scoops. Add in the Legacy Trail for biking or walking, and Venice becomes a must-do getaway.

Highlights:

• Venice Beach and Caspersen Beach (shark tooth hunting!)

• Historic downtown with Italian-inspired architecture

• Farmers market and antique shops

• Legacy Trail access for biking or walking

4. Tarpon Springs: Greek Culture and Sponge Docks

Roughly 90 minutes north of Sarasota, Tarpon Springs is a one-of-a-kind coastal town rich in Greek heritage. In the early 1900s, Greek sponge divers settled here, and their legacy still thrives. The sponge docks area feels like a Mediterranean village, with cobblestone streets, Greek music playing from storefronts, and the scent of fresh gyros in the air.

Beyond the dining, you can take sponge boat tours, visit local art galleries, or explore the small but charming aquarium. Don't leave without trying authentic pastries like baklava or koulourakia from one of the Greek bakeries lining the water.

Highlights:

• Authentic Greek bakeries and restaurants

• Historic sponge docks and boat tours

• Quaint waterfront shops and art galleries

• Visit the Tarpon Springs Aquarium

5. Punta Gorda: A Riverside Gem with History and Food

Punta Gorda sits along the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor and offers a relaxing blend of scenic waterfront, rich history, and local flavor—all less than an hour from Sarasota. The downtown area is walkable, filled with art murals, antique shops, and local breweries. At Fishermen’s Village, you’ll find waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and live music.

For history buffs, the Military Heritage Museum offers exhibits and artifacts from nearly every U.S. conflict. You can also rent bikes or walk along the Harborwalk—a scenic path offering views of the marina and estuary.

Highlights:

• Fishermen’s Village for dining and boutique shopping

• Waterfront park and walking paths

• Military heritage museum and murals

• Laishley Crab House and other popular dining spots

Final Thoughts: Easy Escapes, Big Experiences

From cultural curiosities to island hideaways, these day trips from Sarasota prove you don’t have to travel far to find something memorable. Whether you’re hunting shark teeth, walking among the treetops, or enjoying Greek pastries by the sponge docks, there’s a getaway nearby that fits your style.

Take a break from the everyday—your perfect Florida day trip is only a short drive away.