Whether you're relocating to Sarasota County or simply exploring your new neighborhood, one of the best ways to get to know the area is by visiting its parks. With miles of pristine coastline, lush nature preserves, and beautifully maintained community green spaces, Sarasota County is home to some of the most scenic and family-friendly parks in Florida. Here’s a look at some of the most notable parks that make this area such a vibrant place to live.

Myakka River State Park – A Natural Wonder : One of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks, Myakka River State Park is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over 37,000 acres, it offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, airboat tours, and a canopy walkway with panoramic views of the treetops. Residents often flock here for weekend kayaking trips, birdwatching, or simply to unwind in nature. It’s an ideal escape from the bustle of daily life and a great reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds Sarasota County.

Bayfront Park – Waterfront Relaxation in Downtown Sarasota: Bayfront Park is a favorite for locals who want to enjoy Sarasota’s downtown charm alongside breathtaking waterfront views. This centrally located park features walking paths, a playground, and picnic areas. It’s also a prime spot to catch a sunset over Sarasota Bay. Whether you're enjoying a family stroll or simply soaking in the views, Bayfront Park beautifully blends city living with coastal serenity.

Nathan Benderson Park – A Hub for Sports and Recreation: Nathan Benderson Park is not only one of Sarasota’s most modern parks but also an internationally recognized rowing venue. The 400-acre park surrounds a 600-acre man-made lake, making it perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and competitive rowing. It also features a scenic walking and biking path, exercise stations, and regular events ranging from 5K runs to food truck festivals. Its location near University Town Center makes it a convenient and lively destination for all ages.

Turtle Beach Park – Laid-Back Coastal Vibes: While Siesta Key Beach often takes the spotlight, locals know Turtle Beach Park offers a quieter, more relaxed experience. Located on the southern end of Siesta Key, Turtle Beach has picnic areas, a playground, and boat ramps, along with darker sand and deeper waters than its northern neighbor. It’s also a popular nesting site for sea turtles during the summer months, offering a unique and educational experience for families.

Oscar Scherer State Park – A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers: Nestled between Sarasota and Venice, Oscar Scherer State Park is a peaceful retreat with over 15 miles of trails and access to the Legacy Trail, a paved path for biking and walking that stretches from Sarasota to North Port. The park is home to the rare Florida scrub-jay and features a freshwater lake for swimming, canoeing, and fishing. It's a favorite for campers, hikers, and anyone seeking a quiet escape into Florida’s unique ecosystem.

Payne Park – Family Fun in the Heart of Sarasota: Located just east of downtown Sarasota, Payne Park offers a bit of everything. The park includes tennis courts, a skate park, a popular playground with a splash pad, and a meandering trail for walking or jogging. It's a go-to spot for families looking for a fun and safe place to play, and the on-site café makes it easy to spend a full afternoon enjoying the amenities.

Arlington Park and Aquatic Center – A Neighborhood Favorite: Arlington Park blends classic park features with top-tier recreational facilities. Located just minutes from downtown, this park is home to walking trails, shaded picnic areas, basketball and tennis courts, and one of Sarasota’s best public pools at the Aquatic Center. The lap pool, teaching pool, and fitness room make it a year-round destination for swimmers and families alike. It’s a great community asset tucked into a quiet residential area.

Red Bug Slough Preserve – A Natural Escape in the Suburbs: Tucked away in the heart of Sarasota’s suburban neighborhoods, Red Bug Slough Preserve offers a quiet, wooded escape for walkers, dog lovers, and wildlife watchers. With shaded trails, a small lake, picnic shelters, and a playground, it's a serene spot for those looking to connect with nature without straying far from home. It's especially popular with locals who enjoy peaceful walks and spotting everything from turtles to wading birds.

The Legacy Trail – Sarasota’s Beloved Bike Path: The Legacy Trail is more than just a park—it’s a 20+ mile paved trail that connects Sarasota to Venice and beyond. Loved by cyclists, runners, and walkers, it passes through parks, neighborhoods, and scenic natural areas, offering both recreation and transportation. With trailheads, water stations, and rest areas along the way, it’s a safe and scenic option for outdoor activity that ties communities together. As the trail continues to expand, it becomes even more central to life in Sarasota County.

Rothenbach Park – A Blend of Green Space and Innovation: Built atop a former landfill, Rothenbach Park is a shining example of environmental restoration and community planning. It features five miles of paved trails ideal for biking, walking, and rollerblading, all surrounded by grassy open space and scenic wetlands. With pavilions for gatherings and a playground for kids, it’s a peaceful and well-kept park with an eco-conscious legacy. It’s a lesser-known gem that impresses those who discover it.

Gillespie Park - A Historic Urban Oasis in the Heart of Sarasota: Gillespie Park, situated just north of downtown Sarasota, is a 10-acre urban oasis that combines recreational amenities with cultural significance. Established in the 1920s and named after Sarasota's first mayor, John Hamilton Gillespie, the park offers a variety of facilities for visitors of all ages. Recreational features include three tennis courts, two basketball courts, a playground with a 24-foot-tall climbing structure, and an outdoor fitness trail. The Canine Club, an off-leash dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs, caters to pet owners. Picnic tables, barbecue grills, and shaded walking paths beneath grand oaks provide spaces for relaxation and social gatherings. The park's central pond attracts various bird species, enhancing its appeal to nature enthusiasts. With its blend of recreational facilities, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty, Gillespie Park serves as a cherished green space for both residents and visitors in Sarasota.

Urfer Family Park - A Blend of Nature, History, and Recreation: Located at the corner of Bee Ridge Road and Honore Avenue, Urfer Family Park offers 55 acres of natural beauty and family-friendly amenities. Visitors can explore paved and unpaved trails through pine flatwoods and wetlands, enjoy birdwatching, or use the outdoor fitness stations. The park features age-appropriate playgrounds, shaded picnic areas, and open fields perfect for gatherings and play. A centerpiece of the park is the historic Dr. C. B. Wilson House, built in 1906 and now open for self-guided tours. As Sarasota’s first Gold LEED-certified park, Urfer also reflects a commitment to sustainability, making it a standout spot for recreation and reflection.                      

Twin Lakes Park - A Versatile Destination for Recreation and Events: Located at 6700 Clark Road in Sarasota, Twin Lakes Park spans 123 acres and offers a diverse array of amenities suitable for all ages. The park features multiple athletic facilities, including baseball, softball, soccer, and football fields, as well as tennis, racquetball, and basketball courts. Visitors can enjoy paved and unpaved trails, picnic areas with grills, a playground, and a community garden. The park is also dog-friendly, with pets welcome on a leash. Twin Lakes Park serves as a training base for minor and major league baseball, with professional games open to the public at no charge from February to October. A large picnic pavilion and open space are available for rentals, and the park hosts various special events, including family reunions, weddings, corporate picnics, dog shows, and musical events. Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Twin Lakes Park is a versatile destination that caters to sports enthusiasts, families, and event organizers alike.

Exploring Sarasota, One Park at a Time

Parks play a big role in what makes a community feel like home, and Sarasota County has no shortage of them. Whether you’re drawn to wide-open wilderness, lively cityscapes, or quiet coastal corners, there’s a park here that fits your lifestyle. As real estate professionals who live and work in this beautiful region, we know how important it is to feel connected to your surroundings. So next time you're touring neighborhoods or considering your move, take a moment to explore the parks—they might just help you fall in love with Sarasota.