400 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA 
271 miles from Panama City Beach, FL
Lido Key Beach is one of Sarasota’s several choices for beach recreation. It is quiet, serene and never gets crowded. No houses at the water’s edge and no concessions or facilities whatsoever.
Instead, there is a wide stretch of silky, white sand near the fascinating, bright blue ocean where everyone can find a private relaxation spot. The northern part of this beach is also famous in the LGBT community since it’s a favorite place with local gays.
Location and Access
Located at 50 Benjamin Franklin Drive in Sarasota, Florida, Lido Key Beach is a five-minute walk from St. Armand’s Circle. It is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Check the current data on the red tide on the official website.
If you go a little further north, you can parallel park on Benjamin Franklin Drive for free so don’t be too quick to pay at the first pay station. There is also a huge parking lot in the middle of Lido Key Beach.
Amenities
Lido Key Beach is located on a serene seashore and has few facilities. Most amenities such as public restrooms, showers, food concessions, and gift shops are located in the middle of Lido Key Beach and you’ll have to walk a long way if you need something so it is better to replenish your supplies in advance.
Sand and Water
The north end of Lido Key Beach is wider and offers plenty of space. The sand is white and soft and very good for shelling and sand dollar hunting. If you face the ocean and walk to the right, you’ll find a big sandbar with plenty of sand dollars, conch shells, etc. – a great spot to bring children to collect little treasures.
The main part of Lido Key Beach is guarded while North Lido Beach doesn’t have a lifeguard station – so if you choose to stay in this part of the beach, you should exercise caution in the water.
Other Activities
The beach is a good place for walking and running. There is an unpaved trail. Birding and wildlife viewing are also nice pastimes in this area. During the turtle season, you can see protected sea turtle nests along the dunes not far from the sandbar. These animals like Lido Key Beach too!
Driving Time
- 1 hour 5 minutes from Tampa, FL
- 1 hour 25 minutes from Fort Myers, FL
- 2 hours 5 minutes from Orlando, FL
Hotels and rentals
If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:
- Nearby rentals from VRBO.
- Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.
Beaches nearby
Additionally, there's a number of beaches near Lido Key Beach which you can visit:
- Siesta Key Beach (4 miles)
- Coquina Beach (12 miles)
- Casey Key Beach (13 miles)
- Cortez Beach (13 miles)
- Bradenton Beach (14 miles)
221 Casey Key Rd, Venice, 34275, United States
Drag and zoom the map to view lodging options near the beach.
4 mi away