The 15 best things to do in Sarasota (2026)

We rank 192 experiences in Sarasota, United States, on the same 0 to 100 Outty Ranking. The best right now is Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour at 97/100, and 5 experiences here make the 90+ Club. Updated Sep 2026.

Quick picks

The ranked list

  1. Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour

    There is a reason that the Mangrove Tunnels of Lido Key are a must-do experience when visiting the Gulf Coast. We launch from Ted Sperling Nature Park (190 Taft Dr Sarasota FL) which has clean restrooms, a rinsing shower. Peak Performance at 97/100, 5.0/5 from 2,775 traveler reviews, 2h from $59, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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  2. Mangrove Tunnel & Manatee Kayak Eco-Tour in Sarasota, United States

    Paddle into one of Lido Key’s most unique eco-adventures: the mangrove tunnels. This guided kayak tour takes you through calm, winding waterways where mangrove branches create shaded “tunnels” overhead—quiet, beautiful,. 90+ Club at 93/100, 4.9/5 from 1,145 traveler reviews, 2h from $59, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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  3. Manatee Discovery Anna Maria Island in Sarasota, United States

    If you've ever wanted to witness the wonder of manatees in their natural habitat, our Manatee Discovery Tour is the perfect choice for you. What sets our activity apart is the opportunity to embark on a kayaking journey. 90+ Club at 93/100, 5.0/5 from 612 traveler reviews, 2h from $55, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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  4. Sarasota Mangrove Tunnel Guided Kayak Adventure

    Our guided kayak adventure is the best of its kind in the area! Our expert guides have vast knowledge of the local flora and fauna, as well as the fascinating local history! We get to kayak for a living! We never lose si. 90+ Club at 92/100, 4.9/5 from 1,320 traveler reviews, 2h from $65, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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  5. Siesta Key Electric Bike Sunset Tour in Sarasota, United States

    Experience America's number 1 beach in an incredibly unique manner! Our electric bikes are top of the line and feature both a 5 level pedal assist as well as on-demand throttle so you can work as much or little as you de. 90+ Club at 91/100, 4.9/5 from 1,107 traveler reviews, 2h from $71, free cancellation, an Outty 90+ Club member.

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  6. Myakka State Park E-bike Safari in Sarasota, United States

    We have been avid explorers of Myakka River State Park for the better part of two decades and have been operating tours for nearly 5 years so our knowledge and expertise of the park and it's wildlife inhabitants is unmat. Exceptional at 89/100, 4.9/5 from 503 traveler reviews, 2.5h from $85, free cancellation.

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  7. Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure in Sarasota, United States

    Get up close and personal with our resident bottlenose dolphins on this fun-filled 2 hour tour! Not only is there a possibility to encounter plenty of playful dolphins throughout the journey, but you may also catch sig. Exceptional at 88/100, 4.9/5 from 415 traveler reviews, 2h from $55, free cancellation.

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  8. Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour in Sarasota, United States

    You will explore the Gulf Coast and the beautiful back bay. We will cruise the crystal clear waters to look for manatees grazing (seasonal) and dolphins playing. At a low tide you can often view wading birds on the expos. Exceptional at 88/100, 4.9/5 from 421 traveler reviews, 2h from $58, free cancellation.

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  9. The Island Tour in Sarasota, United States

    9. The Island Tour

    Outty Ranking88

    What sets our kayak adventure apart is the incredible variety of marine life you'll encounter! Dolphins, manatees, birds, fish, and shells galore! As we paddle to the island oasis, keep your eyes peeled for playful dolph. Exceptional at 88/100, 5.0/5 from 261 traveler reviews, 2.5h from $65, free cancellation.

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  10. Lido Key Pedal Kayak Tour in Sarasota

    Liquid Blue Outfitters offers guided pedal kayak tours in Sarasota, Florida, featuring easy-to-use pedal-drive kayaks that feel just like riding a bike. This hands-free design makes the tour comfortable, stable, and begi. Exceptional at 86/100, 5.0/5 from 166 traveler reviews, 2h from $74, free cancellation.

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  11. Sunset Kayaking with Dolphins in Sarasota, United States

    What sets our sunset dolphin tour apart is the magical experience of witnessing these incredible creatures in the golden glow of the setting sun. As you kayak through the picturesque blue waters surrounding Anna Maria Is. Exceptional at 86/100, 5.0/5 from 160 traveler reviews, 2h from $60, free cancellation.

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  12. Robinson Preserve Mangrove Tour in Sarasota, United States

    What sets our mangrove kayak tour apart is the unique opportunity to explore the stunning Robinson Preserve. Glide through the calm waterways, surrounded by the beauty of the mangroves. You'll be in awe of the incredible. Exceptional at 86/100, 5.0/5 from 141 traveler reviews, 2h from $55, free cancellation.

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  13. HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour in Sarasota, United States

    The 2 seater CraigCat Catamarans! It’s a unique watercraft that is in a class of its own with its Compact Boats. It’s the world’s finest and only compact power catamaran of its kind on the market. The ergonomic, side-by-. Exceptional at 84/100, 5.0/5 from 400 traveler reviews, 2h from $146, free cancellation.

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  14. Amish Experience Trolley Tour: Bridges to Understanding in Sarasota, United States

    Visit the only place in the world that the Amish and Mennonite communities come to vacation en masse and learn about their culture with your tour guide. On this tour, the goal is to create a “bridge of understanding” abo. Exceptional at 83/100, 4.9/5 from 224 traveler reviews, 1.8h from $80, free cancellation.

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  15. City Sightseeing Trolley Tour of Sarasota

    Sarasota's BEST City Sightseeing Tour, a wonderful way to learn where to eat, shop and visit, and about Sarasota's interesting past, whether you are a longtime resident, a newcomer, or a visitor. Guests will travel in ou. Exceptional at 83/100, 4.8/5 from 1,017 traveler reviews, 1.5h from $86, free cancellation.

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Traveler ratings are provided by Viator and Tripadvisor. The Outty Ranking is our own independent evaluation. How the ranking works.

When to go

November to April for dry weather and calm bay water.

Frequently asked questions

What is the number one thing to do in Sarasota?

Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour is the top ranked experience in Sarasota right now, with an Outty Ranking of 97 out of 100 from 2,775 traveler reviews, from $59 per person. It leads a field of 192 experiences we rank in the city.

What are the must-see attractions in Sarasota?

Sarasota runs dolphin and manatee boat tours out of Sarasota Bay, kayak trips through Lido Key mangroves, Siesta Key beach days and visits to the Ringling estate.

How much do things to do in Sarasota cost?

The 15 best experiences average $72 per person. The cheapest of them is Manatee Discovery Anna Maria Island from $55, and 15 of the 15 offer free cancellation.

What are the best things to do in Sarasota with kids?

Mangrove Tunnel & Manatee Kayak Eco-Tour, Lido Key Pedal Kayak Tour in Sarasota are the highest ranked family-friendly picks. Check the minimum age on each before booking.

When is the best time to visit Sarasota?

November to April for dry weather and calm bay water.

How is this list ranked?

Every experience is scored 0 to 100 by the Outty Ranking, which blends traveler sentiment, review depth, booking momentum, value against comparable options in Sarasota, quality signals and cancellation flexibility. The list updates automatically as new reviews and bookings arrive.