Are you dreading snowmageddon 2.0? Come with us to a better place, where the rum flows and summer never ends. Momtourage writer Karin shares her press trip to Lido Beach Resort in Sarasota.
Sitting along white sandy beaches and endless turquoise waters, Sarasota’s Lido Beach Resort is family-friendly beachfront luxury with a close proximity to St. Armands Circle and other local attractions. Newly completed room renovations complement the stunning views.
Appetizers and cocktails on the beach at sunset. You need to be here!
Because it’s all about that beach
Seashells dot the white powdery sand where warm tropical waves gently roll in. Soak in the sun in a lounge or rent a cabana while the kids play in the waves. The pool area is just a step off the beach, featuring 3 jacuzzis and 2 pools – one that’s adult only, so it’s cannonball-free. Cafe Lido & Tiki Bar provide poolside dining and cocktails.
Things to do near Lido Beach Resort
Shopping and dining in St Armands
Comprised of upscale boutiques, restaurants and beautiful scenery, the St Armands shopping district is about a half mile from the Lido Beach Resort. Take the resort shuttle, or enjoy a leisurely walk and get your shopping on. With street views of St Armands Circle from every seat, Shore Diner gets two thumbs up for lunch and cocktails. I have it on good authority that Big Olaf Creamery makes the best ice cream on the island, so make sure that’s on your list!
Get close to nature
Take a guided kayak excursion where cormorants dive for fish right under your boat. You might even see manatees or dolphins playing nearby. The trip I took crossed through mangroves, which was fascinating. At one point in our trip around the bay we stopped to watch dolphins play. We held our breath in awe as they slowly swam closer, then suddenly they separated and darted between our kayaks. It was magical, something I won’t soon forget.
Run away with the circus
Or at least get lost in the history of it. In 1927 John Ringling made Sarasota the Winter Quarters of the Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey® Circus and over the years have left a lasting legacy that’s impressive. Kim-Marie names Ringling Museum and Mansion – A “Must Do” in Sarasota.
Rum tasting at Drum Circle Distilling
Seriously, this should be on the top of your list. Rum tasting THEN the beach, repeat. Family owned and operated, Drum Circle Distilling only uses the freshest and finest ingredients, which is apparent when you take a taste of any one of their award-winning Siesta Key rums. My favorites? Siesta Key Spiced Rum and Toasted Coconut Rum – so incredibly good! I considered leaving my clothes in Sarasota, and packing home bottles of rum instead. That’s high praise.
Plan a dinner out at the legendary Michael’s on East
I’m a bit of a food snob, let’s just get that out there. Michael’s on East has a great reputation so I knew it would be a good dinner, but it really surpassed my expectations. Every month Michael’s Epicurean Adventures present culinary journeys to a new destination, making dinner an experience. When I visited, the feature was a Londolozi Epicurean Adventure, a three-course dinner showcasing signature recipes from Londolozi Game Reserve in South Africa. But that’s only a part of the menu. I tried several of the entrees, all were so fresh and flavorful, with perfectly balanced spice combinations. Try Molly’s Truffled Macaroni and Cheese and you’ll never be the same again. And the wine selection? Ridiculous. Michael’s on East is child-friendly, but make it a date night and savor the evening.
This visit was part of a press trip sponsored by Lido Beach resort and Visit Sarasota. The opinions and experiences are all mine.