If you’re dreaming of white sand beaches, outdoor fun in the sun, or a relaxing family vacation, it may be time to book a trip to gorgeous Lido Key, Florida, where you can find all these things and more. This small barrier island, just a short drive from downtown Sarasota, is the perfect blend of family-friendly getaway and upscale beach vibe. And our Destination Manager, Chelsea, is more than happy to create the perfect itinerary.
Day One: Life’s a Day at the Beach
Ease into your first day of vacation by enjoying your morning coffee on the rooftop deck. “This is one of my favorite features of the house,” says Chelsea. “From the rooftop deck, you can look in one direction and see downtown Sarasota, and in the other direction have an amazing view of the ocean. You may even get lucky and spot manatees in the canal below.” After taking in the views, grab your towels and the decadent picnic lunch waiting for you in the fridge from Morton’s Gourmet Market – arranged by your Local Host, of course – and head to the beach, just a short stroll away.
Lido Key Beach is known for its powder-soft sand and turquoise water. The waves here are calm and the beach relatively uncrowded, so it’s a great place to spend time hunting for shells and shark’s teeth, swimming, relaxing, or taking a walk along the shore. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to make your day on the beach even more comfortable.
When you’ve had enough of sand and sun, head back to the house for a dip in the pool or an afternoon siesta on one of the covered patios before getting cleaned up and heading out for dinner. “For great seafood and cocktails, you can’t go wrong with Crab and Fin,” recommends Chelsea. They’re known for their fresh, unique seafood dishes, and the calamari appetizer is a must. For those seeking an entrée other than fish (all of which is fresh off the boat and delicious), the coconut crusted chicken is superb. For an extra treat, let us book your table outside where you can people watch while listening to the live pianist.
Day Two: Time for Adventure
While day one was all about relaxing and settling in, day two’s focus is a local adventure.
There are many year-round outdoor activities to choose from here, but our top eco-adventure recommendation – and a great way to start the day – is to take a two-hour morning kayak tour among Lido Key’s famed mangrove trees with Kayaking SRQ. “This is a must-do activity when you come to Lido Key,” says Chelsea. “The mangrove tunnels are absolutely beautiful and home to a wide variety of birds and marine life. Kayakers often catch sight of dolphins, manatees, jellyfish, and other wildlife, so be sure to bring your camera.”
If the outdoors is calling, but kayaking isn’t for you, let us book deep-sea fishing, golfing, boating, tennis, or snorkeling nearby.
Whatever adventure you choose, after a morning of outdoor fun, you’ll want to head over to the Lido Key Tiki Bar at the Ritz-Carlton for a laid-back lunch. This rustic, open-air tropical beach bar is a Sarasota landmark and offers casual lunch fare and beachy cocktails right at the water’s edge. The kanaloa cocktail is a must try.
To round out your day of outdoor adventure, let us arrange a second fresh-air activity for you in the afternoon – fishing, snorkeling, golfing, tennis – or head over to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to stroll through their 15 acres of desert, rainforest, and display gardens, located along the Sarasota Bay.
For dinner, investors love the rooftop deck at Tommy Bahama which overlooks St. Armands Circle. In addition to their tasty fish tacos, you can’t go wrong with their world-famous coconut shrimp and papaya mango chutney. The mouthwatering macadamia nut crusted Snapper pairs perfectly with the Pinot. The restaurant often has live music for your enjoyment.
Day Three: Shop till You Drop
Wrap up your stay with a day of shopping at the renowned St. Armands Circle, just a short eight-minute walk from the house.
Here you’ll find high end shops offering everything from clothes, home goods, jewelry, art, and more. Alongside cozy courtyards and shaded patios, St. Armands Circle is the perfect perch for people-watching.
When you need a break from retail therapy, grab an elegant lunch at Café L’Europe where the old-world charm and warm brick décor generate a sophisticated but comfortable atmosphere. If you’re craving soup, the lobster bisque and French onion (served in a whole onion) are always worthy of five stars. Be sure to try the grouper sandwich or croque monsieur (Sarasota’s best ham and cheese). Save room for homemade ice cream from Big Olaf Creamery.
“There’s such a great mix of upscale and casual boutiques, artisan’s shops, daquiri bars, spas, and art galleries at St. Armands, It’s easy to spend an entire day here,” says Chelsea.
In addition to the amazing shopping and dining options, visitors can also enjoy community events and a lovely central greenspace featuring Italian statues and a “Circus Ring of Fame” memorial. As always, your Destination Manager will let you know about any special events being hosted here during your stay.
In the afternoon, head back to the house for more time in the pool or jacuzzi, and let us arrange for a private chef to come in and prepare dinner for you.
“I always recommend Chef Richard Knowles,” says Chelsea. “He’s fantastic and our investors love him. Having him come in and cook for you is a great way to wrap up your Lido Key vacation.” Some of chef’s signature dishes include Oaxacan chicken mole skewers with queso fresco, pan seared Anna Maria red snapper, and jalapeno lime Beurre Blanc with a medley of saffron rice, peppers, onions, and plantains. It’s the perfectly relaxing grand finale to a fabulous three days in Lido Key.
At Home In Lido Key with Equity Estates
Situated on the canal side of Lido Key, your Equity Estates home is an easy stroll from the esteemed St. Armands Circle and Lido Key Beach. This spacious and thoughtfully laid-out residence features five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and boasts more than 6,900 square feet of indoor/outdoor living space. With soaring tray ceilings, sustainable bamboo floors and gourmet kitchen, this home nestles you in the lap of luxury. The airy first floor includes a waterfront master suite and spa-style bath. The rooftop observation deck features views of downtown Sarasota and miles of Florida coastline.
Your visit to Lido Key with Equity Estates can be the beach vacation you’re dreaming of – whether you want a more laid-back trip or one that’s filled with activity; whether you’re traveling with friends and family or in need of a quiet, couple’s getaway. We can help you make it happen. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to schedule a call.
