Once a hidden gem of the Sunshine State, Sarasota is rapidly becoming a booming destination for a relaxing beach vacation. Located on Florida's southwestern coast, the city is known for its cultural and environmental amenities as well as for its serene beaches.

Sarasota is home to the Sarasota School of Architecture as well as the Monte Marine Laboratory, which conducts marine science research. It is also home to the Florida Institute of Marine Science, one of the largest marine research institutes in the world.

Sarasota is the perfect place to reside in Florida and is a diverse place where people come from all over the world to visit and live — people of all races, ethnicities, genders, religions, and sexual orientations.

If you look at everything Sarasota has to offer, how can you be wrong if you decide to live here? Just a short drive from Tampa, you'll enjoy the beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico. Rent a bike and ride the Sarasota County Legacy Trail or explore the Myakka River State Park with treetop hikes or walk through the city's parks and recreation areas, such as Lake Okeechobee Trail.

If you are in Sarasota for a longer stay or even just a short time, visit the Detwiler Market, where you can buy fresh produce, fresh fruits, and vegetables, as well as local craft beer and wine. In Sarasota, you can also park in the Siesta Key Village parking lot or in the beach parking garage of Siera Key Beach Park.

Sarasota is the winter home to the Ringling Brothers Circus, so many of the buildings throughout the city are named after the company. Colleges in the area include the Ringling College of Art and Design, the New College of Florida, and Keiser University, among others.

Add in the city's cultural scene that complements the area's beaches, and you have made Sarasota the best place in Florida to pick with its beautiful beaches, great food, and entertainment. And don't forget the award-winning craft beer and Siesta Key Rum made in Sarasota. With more than 1,000 restaurants, bars, hotels, and retail outlets, Sarasota offers a wide range of activities for all ages.

One of the best places in Sarasota is downtown, where you can rent a condo or book a hotel. Anna Maria Island is located further north of Sarasota and is worth a day trip to enjoy a less crowded, clean, and beautiful beach. Although it can be crowded at certain times of the year, there are opportunities for those who want to stay near the island of AnnaMaria and enjoy more secluded beaches. If you enjoy a more private beach, it is worth a trip.