Lido Key, Florida

Lido Key, a smaller barrier island located just north of Longboat Key is just across the bridge from downtown Sarasota. The barrier island of Lido Key lures visitors with gorgeous beaches, upscale shopping, and family-friendly accommodations. When circus magnate and ambitious developer John Ringling moved to Sarasota in the 1920’s, he saw Lido Key’s huge potential, and proceeded to use his elephants to haul materials from the mainland to construct the world famous St. Armand's Circle. It is said that John Ringling won the area in a Poker game. Today the rotary and Italian-style garden is peppered with high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and fine art galleries that spill out into the streets.

A stones throw from Lido Key's St. Armand’s Circle, wide beaches and stately palm trees attract swimmers, sun worshippers, and watersports enthusiasts. Mote Aquarium, on the northern tip of the key, offers hands-on exhibits and insight into the area’s fascinating sea life. On the southern tip of key, the South Lido Park and Nature Center offer canoe trails and picnic spots with panoramic views of both the Sarasota skyline and the Gulf.