Located between Tampa Bay and Ft. Myers, Sarasota, Florida is a cultural gem on the Gulf of Mexico. Sarasota proves to be the perfect mix between an urban environment and a small town atmosphere. You’ll find a lively cultural scene that includes several performing arts centers and groups, such as the Sarasota Opera House, the Sarasota Orchestra, and the Sarasota Concert Band, as well as a host of arts found in the Center for Sarasota Arts and the Van Wezel Hall of Performing Arts.

If you’re more interested in food than the arts, Sarasota hosts several food festivals throughout the year, including the Forks and Corks Wine & Food Festival in January, Taste of the Sun Coast in March, Florida Winefest & Auction in April, Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week in June and Stone Crab, Seafood & Wine Festival and Taste of Sarasota in November. Even local restaurants boast a variety of cuisines, from local seafood to fine dining, with one of the highest concentrations of Zagat-rated restaurants in Florida. Prepare to enjoy the Florida weather, as many restaurants are outdoors.

White-sand beaches and pristine views are never far from Sarasota homes for sale. Florida’s laid-back west coast lifestyle includes outdoor activities such as golf, boating, fishing, tennis and simply enjoying the nature that surrounds the area. St. Armand’s Circle is a popular shopping area for both tourists and residents. Popular for its diverse shops, you can find anything from designer clothes, shoes and accessories to a thoughtful gift for someone special.

Luxury beachfront homes for sale in Sarasota rival some of the best in the country. There are several neighborhoods that offer million dollar homes for those with luxurious taste. One in particular, Lakewood Ranch, contains several activity options. In fact, half of its 8,500-acre community is reserved for open space and recreation areas that include miles of nature-infused hiking trails, playgrounds, pools, and polo fields. The environmentally conscious will like that Lakewood Ranch is a green community, held to the standards of the Florida Green Building Coalition. New conveniences have even been added nearby, such as a movie theater and a number of shopping options including a Prime Outlet Mall.

If your preference leans more toward historic homes and areas, Laurel Park, near downtown, has been designated a National Register of Historic Places District. Home styles range from bungalow to mission, colonial and Mediterranean Revival, with some dating back to the 1920’s. Its proximity to local shops and restaurants only makes this beautiful area more desirable. This quaint neighborhood is just steps from the water for the surfer or fisherman.