What Family Fun Can You Find on Lido Key and Sarasota’s Coast?

When it comes to a sunny, kid-friendly escape, Lido Key checks all the boxes. Tucked just off the coast of Sarasota, this beachy island blends coastal charm with endless family adventures. From nature trails and splash zones to science museums and dolphin tours, Lido Key is more than just a beach, it’s a playground for curious little explorers. 

Whether you’re planning a full family vacation or just a day trip, here’s your guide to the best things to do with kids on Lido Key and in Sarasota. 

Lido Key Beaches & Outdoor Fun 

Lido Beach 
Soft white sand, gentle waves, and shallow water make Lido Beach perfect for younger children. There’s a shaded pavilion, snack bar, restrooms, and even a seasonal pool, making it one of the most convenient family beaches near Sarasota. 

South Lido Park (Ted Sperling Park) 
Looking for a mix of beaches, nature, and adventure? South Lido offers picnic areas, nature trails, and a kid-friendly canoe/kayak launch into the mangrove tunnels. It’s a great spot to paddle through shaded waters or spot birds, crabs, and maybe even dolphins. 

St. Armands Circle 
Just steps from the beach, this lively spot is a win for families. Grab an ice cream cone, window shop in colorful boutiques, or stop for a bite at one of the many kid-welcoming restaurants. St. Armands also hosts seasonal events and festivals that are fun for all ages. 

Educational & Interactive Activities 

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Mote’s beloved City Island aquarium officially closed on July 6, 2025 — but don’t worry! The marine science experience is far from over. Mote is preparing to reopen as the brand-new Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota. When it opens, families can look forward to larger exhibits, touch tanks, sea turtles, and hands-on ocean science displays. 

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – Downtown Sarasota Campus 
A beautiful place to wander with kids. Walk among butterfly gardens, koi ponds, and banyan trees, and check out the Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden, where little ones can climb, crawl, and explore in a nature-themed play zone. 

The Ringling – Sarasota 
This isn’t your typical museum! Families love the Circus Museum, filled with costumes, interactive exhibits, and an enormous model of the circus in its heyday. The outdoor gardens and banyan trees also make great spots to run and explore. 

Water Adventures & Boat Tours 

Dolphin & Wildlife Boat Tours – Sarasota Bay 
Board a family-friendly eco-tour departing near Lido Key and cruise through the bay in search of dolphins, manatees, and seabirds. Some tours even include marine education tailored to kids. 

Kayak Rentals in South Lido Park 
Rent a tandem kayak and paddle through the calm mangrove tunnels of South Lido. It’s a low-key, high-reward way for families to explore Sarasota’s unique coastal ecosystems together. 

Fishing from Lido Key Shoreline 
Older kids may enjoy casting a line from Lido’s quiet spots. Just bring a pole and bait — no boat required! 

Creative & Sensory-Friendly Fun 

Art Center Sarasota – Family Saturdays 
Check their calendar for hands-on art workshops and kid-friendly classes. It’s a great way to beat the heat and spark some creativity. 

Early Morning Beach Walks 
For families with sensory-sensitive children, Lido Key’s beaches are peaceful and uncrowded in the early hours. The soft sand and gentle Gulf breeze create a calming start to the day. 

Sarasota Jungle Gardens 
Step into “Old Florida” at this enchanting wildlife park, one of Florida’s oldest attractions since 1939. Kids can handfeed flamingos, meet rescued parrots, and hold baby alligators. The stroller-friendly paths wind through lush tropical landscapes and lead to a fenced-in playground and splash area, perfect for sensory-friendly, hands-on fun 

Kid-Approved Eats & Treats 

Big Olaf Creamery – St. Armands Circle 
A must-stop for hand-scooped ice cream after a beach day. Classic flavors, colorful cones, and friendly service — what more could a kid want? 

Columbia Restaurant – St. Armands Circle 
While elegant enough for adults, this iconic restaurant welcomes kids with open arms and a kid’s menu full of tasty options. Plus, the flamenco-inspired décor keeps everyone entertained. 

Lido Beach Snack Bar 
Grab lunch without leaving the sand! Burgers, fries, and frozen treats make this spot a go-to for hungry beachgoers. 

Family Memories Begin on Lido Key 

Whether you’re kayaking through mangroves, digging into a scoop of gelato at St. Armands, or exploring Sarasota’s cultural gems, Lido Key offers the perfect balance of relaxation and family adventure. With sunshine, sand, and something for every age, it’s no wonder Lido Key remains one of the top family vacation spots on Florida’s Gulf Coast.