5-Day Sarasota and Sanibel Island Adventure Itinerary

Begin your day at The Ringling, an iconic cultural institution that includes an art museum, circus museum, and beautiful gardens. Spend the morning exploring the extensive art collections and learning about the history of the circus.

For lunch, head to Selva Grill, where you can savor innovative Latin cuisine in a vibrant setting. In the afternoon, embark on the Sarasota Taste of Downtown Food Tour to discover some of Sarasota's best culinary spots while learning about the city's history.

Dine at Owen's Fish Camp, a charming restaurant offering Southern-style seafood dishes in a cozy atmosphere. It's a great place to unwind after a day full of cultural exploration.

Kick off your day with an exciting Bradenton Guided Pedal Kayak Tour. This unique adventure allows you to explore the waterways while getting some exercise on pedal-powered kayaks.

Enjoy lunch at Shore, where you can indulge in coastal cuisine with stunning waterfront views. Afterward, join the Osprey Guided Dolphin and Manatee SUP or Kayaking Tour for an unforgettable experience paddling alongside these magnificent creatures.

Have dinner at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, known for its delicious seafood and picturesque views of Sarasota Bay. It's the perfect spot to relax after an adventurous day on the water.

Start your day with a visit to Sun-N-Fun Lagoon, a water park located just a short drive from Sarasota. This family-friendly park features thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool—perfect for keeping your 13-year-old entertained for hours.

After a fun-filled morning at the water park, head back to Sarasota for lunch at Marina Jack. Enjoy delicious seafood dishes while taking in the stunning views of Sarasota Bay. Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring nearby attractions like Bayfront Park.

End your day with the Sarasota Sunset Charter. This evening cruise offers breathtaking views of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. It's a serene and picturesque way to conclude your trip to Sarasota.

Take a scenic drive from Sarasota to Sanibel Island early in the morning (approximately 2 hours). Once there, head straight to Bowman's Beach for some world-renowned shell hunting. The beach is famous for its abundance of unique shells washed ashore by gentle waves.

For lunch on Sanibel Island, visit Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille for some island-inspired dishes that will keep you energized for more shell hunting in the afternoon. Continue exploring different beaches like Blind Pass Beach or Lighthouse Beach Park for more shell treasures.

Drive back to Sarasota in time for dinner at Indigenous. This restaurant offers farm-to-table dining with creative dishes that highlight local ingredients—an excellent way to end your adventurous day trip.