Sarasota is a coastal county along Florida's "Suncoast." It is world-renowned for beautiful beaches, fine dining, and art. Siesta Key is a small barrier island off the coast of Sarasotas. Siesta Key beaches are the island's premier claim to fame. From being chosen as "Best Overall" in the 1987 International Sand Contest to being named the "Best Sand Beach in America 2004" by The Travel Channel. The sand of Siesta Key is composed of 99% quartz crystal and is consistently rated in the top ten beaches of Florida, the U.S. and the world.
The beaches are quite popular so it is advised to get there early. If you are looking for a more secluded and less crowded beach you can try Turtle beach - located just a few miles south of Siesta Key beach. It is known for large amounts of sea shells. It has all the beauty of Siesta Key without the crowd. The sand, however, is not as fine as that of the north beach. The sunsets are just as beautiful.
Sarasota is also home to the Ringling museum of art. It was established in 1927 as the legacy of Mable and John Ringling for the citizens of Florida. It has since been designated as the official state art museum for Florida. It offers 21 galleries of European paintings as well as Cypriot antiquities and American, Asian, and contemporary art.
Sarasota also offers the top public liberal arts college in the country, New College.
It is a great place to vacation and to live.