White sand & ancient shark teeth on FL's Gulfside beaches

When visiting Sarasota, North Lido is the beach you'll find closest to the downtown area. The shore is located right off of John Ringling Boulevard, and you can discover boutiques and dining galore in St. Armands Circle before hopping onto the gorgeous white sand. Birdwatchers at North Lido Beach will enjoy the many seabirds living in the dune system here. Parking is plentiful, but the beach itself is on the smaller side and fills up quickly, so get there early to claim the perfect spot! You'll be glad you did as you let your toes sink into the soft sand and gaze out at the blue water! Nature trails and a park behind the dunes offer some additional fun for children and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

This next gem, South Lido County Park, is perfect for those wanting some options for exciting activities intertwined with some relaxing beach opportunities. Walk the trails among the mangroves, or rent a kayak and paddle out into the waters to catch sights of dolphins or manatees. South Lido is the place to be for those wanting a beach with a central location that isn't totally packed with beachgoers. This quiet spot in Sarasota is a total hidden gem. There is no swimming permitted because of the current, but you can experience the sights and visit the tunnels of trees if you paddle out in the water. If you're lucky you'll get to see some turtles nesting... and do we even need to remind you how pleasant it is to watch the sunrise or sunset on an uncrowded beach? Yes please!

Chances are you've seen photos of Siesta Beach, and there's a reason why. The white quartz sand and turquoise water draws in folks from around the country, and it's consistently ranked as one of the best around. The shallow waters near shore and the lifeguards on duty make it a great spot for families to visit, and the restaurants, volleyball courts, and nearby amenities attract people wanting to socialize and enjoy the vacation-y atmosphere. You'll have no issue finding public access points around Siesta, which is a huge plus. Being number one of its kind, this beach in particular gets especially crowded during peak times of the week and year, so be prepared for some potential crowds or perhaps some walking to find a good spot to yourself. But then again, who doesn't love a walk on the beach?

On the southern end of Siesta Beach, Turtle Beach is a favorite of many because it's more private. The rockier sand makes for some great shell-finding opportunities, but the shores at this beach hide something even cooler than seashells; you might even discover prehistoric petrified shark teeth! When you're done combing the beach, there's a park nearby with some shade for children. The overall vibe of the beach draws a family-friendly, laid-back crowd. Oh and, true to the name, sea turtles nest here during mating season, so maybe you'll even get to see some of the action!

Between Sarasota and Venice, Nokomis is a perfect stop for those wanting to get out of the busy city and experience a cozy, small-town atmosphere. It's super inviting to families, boasting has gorgeous views of dolphins, boats, and sparkling waves. You'll have miles of beach to walk along and explore, and locals find it a great location for hunting down unique seashell treasures. If spreading out and having some privacy during your vacation is at the top of your priority list, Nokomis Beach is a spot you'll want to try!

A bit further south from Nokomis is another beach, but this gem differs quite a bit from the rest. It's the only off-leash dog beach around! Brohard is a fantastic way to spend some time with four-legged friends, who will love being free to roam as they please. Even those vacationing without their beloved friends will feel right at home and meet some friendly new faces! The park has washing stations and water fountains for your dog, and there's plenty of room for you and pups to spread out. Picnic tables are on location, making Brohard a spot for the entire family to spend the day. You won't find a beach like this in Sarasota County, and there are even areas in the shade to relax in after those paws get too hot!