9:00 a.m.
Enjoy a Market-Fresh Breakfast
Downtown Sarasota comes alive with a new energy on Saturday mornings as the Sarasota Farmers’ Market takes over Lemon Avenue from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local vendors have adorned the streets with tents every weekend since 1979, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, local artwork, and two live musicians. For breakfast, indulge in local favorites like Greek Triangles’ classic spanakopita, a breakfast empanada from The Empanada Girl, where the house-made dough is filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and cheese, or Dream Earth Bowl’s signature acai bowl, layered with acai, granola, fresh banana, strawberry, and honey. Need a morning pick-me-up? Try O&A Coffee’s tonic cold brew or grab a 16 oz bottle of Flobucha’s best-selling kombucha flavor – the guava ginger hibiscus.
11:00 a.m.
Unwind on an Internationally Acclaimed Beach
Sarasota’s 35 miles of pristine coastline provide an abundance of idyllic spots to bask in the sun, surf, and sand. While Longboat Key and Lido Key are closer to Downtown, Siesta Key just to the south is the favored choice of locals and global travelers alike. Its beaches have been recognized by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards as the second-best beach in the U.S. and the #9 best beach in the world. Stretching three miles, these renowned shores are distinguished by their fine white sugar sand, composed of soft quartz, and crystal-clear aquamarine waters. Relaxation awaits with a beach towel in hand, offering the perfect vantage point to observe birds gliding overhead or playful dolphins on the horizon. For the more active beachgoers, several rental shops, including Siesta Key Bike and Kayak Rentals, allow visitors to rent beach bikes, scooters, beach chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards.
3:00 p.m.
Wellness on the Waterfront
For a mid-day rejuvenation, those staying at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota can retreat to the on-site Ritz-Carlton Spa. More than 100 European-inspired treatments make up the comprehensive menu, but massages are the Spa’s specialty. The Strength & Resilience Massage, a 100-minute signature treatment, has been designed to boost energy levels and support the immune system. Using ESPA skincare products, the therapy session will include yogic stretching, aromatherapy oils, reflex zone foot massage, back massage, sinus release, and a scalp massage.
Future residents of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay will luxuriate in a unique private Wellness Center, complete with cold Vitality Plunge Pools, sauna and steam rooms, and tranquil spa treatment areas. The Wellness Center is just one of the delightful diversions incorporated into The Harbor Club. This 20,000 sq. ft. resident-exclusive Club will use an innovative campus-style design to cater to all generations. Families will enjoy a dockside small watercraft launch, revel in theater-style screening rooms, an innovative sports simulator Gaming Room, sunrise to sundae beverage bar, and more – all against the breathtaking harborside setting of Sarasota Bay. A private service kitchen will also serve curated menus delivered to your private residences or anywhere within The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota Bay campus, ensuring uninterrupted relaxation for residents.
3:00 p.m.
Wellness on the Waterfront
For a mid-day rejuvenation, those staying at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota can retreat to the on-site Ritz-Carlton Spa. More than 100 European-inspired treatments make up the comprehensive menu, but massages are the Spa’s specialty. The Strength & Resilience Massage, a 100-minute signature treatment, has been designed to boost energy levels and support the immune system. Using ESPA skincare products, the therapy session will include yogic stretching, aromatherapy oils, reflex zone foot massage, back massage, sinus release, and a scalp massage.
Future residents of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay will luxuriate in a unique private Wellness Center, complete with cold Vitality Plunge Pools, sauna and steam rooms, and tranquil spa treatment areas. The Wellness Center is just one of the delightful diversions incorporated into The Harbor Club. This 20,000 sq. ft. resident-exclusive Club will use an innovative campus-style design to cater to all generations. Families will enjoy a dockside small watercraft launch, revel in theater-style screening rooms, an innovative sports simulator Gaming Room, sunrise to sundae beverage bar, and more – all against the breathtaking harborside setting of Sarasota Bay. A private service kitchen will also serve curated menus delivered to your private residences or anywhere within The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota Bay campus, ensuring uninterrupted relaxation for residents.
5:00 p.m.
A Symphony of Flavors
After nourishing the mind and body, head to Bijou Garden Café to satisfy one’s appetite. This award-winning downtown establishment has been a staple of Sarasota’s dining scene since 1986. Located in the heart of the theatre and arts district, Bijou Garden Café is renowned for its intimate setting, white tablecloths, a live piano player, and its French/ Continental cuisine. The ever-rotating menu is a testament to the chef’s dedication to using the freshest locally sourced produce. Guests can savor dishes like the house-made pappardelle pasta with wild mushrooms and braised short rib or the roasted half duck with a cherry coffee reduction and warm cinnamon apple farro salad. Leaving room for dessert is a must. The crème brûlée is a delightful treat that melts in one’s mouth, while the rotating selection of gelatos and sorbets offers a refreshing finale to the meal.
8:00 p.m.
Celebrate the Arts
Of course, it wouldn’t be a visit to Florida’s Cultural Coast without exploring one of the region’s world-class performing arts venues. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Center is an iconic 80,000-square-foot facility that stands out with its purple hue, a striking contrast to the surrounding blues and greens of The Bay. What truly sets this theater apart is its ability to attract top-tier entertainment. Head up to the box office to see what shows from the 100-event season are playing. It could be anything from a Broadway musical, world-class symphony orchestra, popular comedians, or dance performances. Additionally, the Van Wezel hosts over 50 performances and events annually for local organizations such as the Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Ballet, and the Sarasota Concert Association.
8:00 p.m.
Celebrate the Arts
Of course, it wouldn’t be a visit to Florida’s Cultural Coast without exploring one of the region’s world-class performing arts venues. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Center is an iconic 80,000-square-foot facility that stands out with its purple hue, a striking contrast to the surrounding blues and greens of The Bay. What truly sets this theater apart is its ability to attract top-tier entertainment. Head up to the box office to see what shows from the 100-event season are playing. It could be anything from a Broadway musical, world-class symphony orchestra, popular comedians, or dance performances. Additionally, the Van Wezel hosts over 50 performances and events annually for local organizations such as the Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Ballet, and the Sarasota Concert Association.