Florida's Gulf Coast is packed with gems, and Sarasota is one that shines particularly brightly. Settle into this lively and welcoming community, and feel like a local by staying at your choice of Sarasota vacation homes.

Like most of Florida, Sarasota boasts humid summers and mild winters. During the peak of summer in July and August, temperatures often exceed 90 degrees, and the area receives frequent thunderstorms. In the winter, Sarasota experiences temperatures in the 70s, and the skies remain relatively dry.

Flying into the Sarasota area is easy, thanks to several convenient airport options. Whether you fly to the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, the Tampa International Airport, or the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, you'll be just a short drive from most Sarasota vacation homes. Since Sarasota spans both the mainland and islands, you'll cover the most ground by car.

With art, architecture, and flora, The Ringling has something for everyone. You could easily spend an entire day touring the Venetian Gothic Ca' d'Zan, delighting in the details of the 44,000-piece Howard Bros. Circus Model, smelling the flowers in Mable Ringling's Rose Garden, or looking for treasures in John Ringling's Renaissance-style Museum of Art Courtyard.

No matter the season, you'll find a festival or special event to pique your interest in Sarasota. Dance, music, and theater lovers should mark their calendars for the Ringling International Arts Festival, which celebrates the best of contemporary performing arts. In January, the Forks and Corks Food and Wine Festival treats attendees to wine and food tastings, celebrity chef events, and food demonstrations. In April, the Sarasota Film Festival spans 10 days, highlights over 200 films, and welcomes more than 250 filmmakers. With panels, symposia, and talks with filmmakers, this is one of the city's most popular events each year.