Sarasota FL

Our real estate agents find that Florida's incredible natural beauty is even more special when they share it with their best four-legged friend. Head out for a great day with your pet at one of these dog-friendly beaches near Sarasota.

• Brohard Paw Park - 1850 Harbor Dr. S., Venice, FL 34285
  Brohard Paw Park, located just minutes from Venice homes for sale, is the Riviera Coast of dog-friendly beaches. After romping in the leash-free fenced-in park, Fido can head to the adjacent beach for a refreshing dip. There are drinking fountains, trash receptacles, and showers, along with an accessible boardwalk and plenty of benches and picnic tables where humans can have lunch or just relax as their pets have fun. Park hours are 7 a.m. - dusk daily.
  
  
• De Soto National Memorial Beach - 8300 De Soto Memorial Hwy., Bradenton, FL 34209
  Bring your leashed pet along to explore De Soto National Memorial Beach, not far from Bradenton homes for sale. The stunning hiking path meanders around a number of different ecosystems, such as a mangrove forest, just like the ones the first visitors found. Afterward, the two of you can cool off wading in the waters of Tampa Bay. Park grounds are open from dawn to dusk, but note that the parking lot gates close at 5 p.m. Admission is free for all guests.
  
  
• Palma Sola Causeway Park - 9000 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34209
  Once you and your precious pooch visit delightful Palma Sola Causeway Park, you may never want to leave. Dogs and horses alike can be found, along with their humans, traversing the sandy stretches of this waterfront area. Visitors give the park high marks for the clean, well-maintained grounds and peaceful ambiance. Grills are available, so pack a picnic lunch with plenty of doggie treats. Palma Sola is open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.
  
  
• Indian Beach Park - 2703 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota, FL 34234
  Tucked right in the center of the magnificent Sarasota Bayfront, Indian Beach Park packs a lot of activity into its single acre of land. The prime location makes it a popular spot for launching kayaks and canoes, while many others come to try their hand at fishing. Wind down after a long day by taking in some amazing sunset views with Fido at your side. Hours are 5 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Bayfront Park - 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Are you into multitasking? Culture, education, and entertainment meet head-on at Bayfront Park. One of the prominent features is the recently installed bioswale, designed to capture and treat stormwater runoff from surrounding surfaces. See if you can identify cabbage palm, mangrove spider lily, and other native plants inside the bioswale. Take a stroll with Fido to see the charming art installations, including Olympic Wannabees, Dolphin Fountain, and Ominous Ikon 69. Bayfront Park also offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Plans are underway to design and rebuild an upgrade to the kids' fountain on-site. Park hours are 5 a.m. - 11 p.m., seven days a week.

Contact us at Wagner Realty for cheerful and experienced assistance with all your real estate needs.

One of the great things about living in Florida is that fresh fruit and vegetables are never really out of season. Local farms around Sarasota and Bradenton cultivate corps that change with the calendar.

Even so, spring is almost certainly the best season when it comes to u-pick produce. These are some of our real estate agents' favorite pick-your-own fruit and veggie farms in the Sarasota and Bradenton area!

• Albritton Fruit Farms - 9600 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241
  A beautiful farm in the rolling countryside just outside Sarasota, Albritton Fruit Farms offers u-pick blueberries and sunflowers throughout the spring harvest season. This family-owned and operated farm is just minutes from these Sarasota homes for sale and includes 60,000 blueberry plants of four distinct varieties. The u-pick season usually runs from mid-March through late May, and specific dates are frequently updated on their website. 
  
  
• Hunsader Farms - 5500 Co Rd 675, Bradenton, FL 34211
  Bradenton's Hunsader Farms is one of the best places around to get fresh produce. In addition to u-pick offerings that change with the seasons, they offer a fully stocked farm stand where you can shop an amazing variety of fruits and vegetables. U-pick offerings throughout April and May include eggplant, green beans, black-eyed peas, purple hull peas, and okra, and many more options are available pre-picked at the farm stand. There's also an on-site petting zoo and playground, and the farm is only a short drive from many Bradenton homes for sale.
  
  
• Brown's Grove - 16015 Winburn Dr, Sarasota, FL 34240
  One of the leading citrus growers in the Sarasota area, Brown's Grove produces a wide range of fruit in their large, picturesque farm. Brown's Grove has been owned and operated by the Brown family since 1915, and their offerings include red and yellow naval oranges, Meyer lemons, red and white grapefruits, and Tango tangerines. The u-pick citrus season runs from December through February, but Brown's Grove also sets up a fruit stand at Phillippi Farmhouse Market in Sarasota.
  
  
• Honeyside Farms - 24105 FL-62, Parrish, FL 34219
  An organic vegetable farm spanning 12 beautiful acres, Honeyside Farms is the pride and joy of Tiffany Bailey, a 4th-generation farmer who started growing her own produce just outside Bradenton in 2008. Today, the farm grows dozens of different crops a stone's throw from these Parrish homes for sale and offers weekly organic veggie box subscriptions. U-pick is offered on select days that are announced in advance via their social media pages. Honeyside Farms also sells produce at the Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market during the growing season from November to May.
  
  
• Fruitville Grove - 7410 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34240
  Fruitville Grove is a working farm as well as a farm market, and they offer a huge variety of local homemade goods year-round, as well as fresh produce in season. You'll always find fresh baked goods, jams and preserves, honey, and dairy products at the market. December through March is the peak season for most of their organic fruits and vegetables, but many crops are available well into spring. Fruitville Grove is perhaps best known for its annual Pumpkin Fest, which includes u-pick pumpkins and a wide range of food, games, and entertainment every October. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Florida! Fresh local produce year-round is just one of many things that make this part of the world special, and our real estate agents can't wait to help you find your dream home in Sarasota, Bradenton, and the surrounding areas. 

Lauded by U.S. News & World Report as the #1 place in Florida to visit, Sarasota truly stands out. Whether you're looking for Sarasota homes for sale or at neighboring Bradenton homes for sale, you'll have the chance to enjoy all the amenities this sun-soaked community offers. Our real estate agents are excited to show you more.

Replete with natural wonders and fascinating Florida history, Sarasota excels in more ways than one. As you explore, you'll encounter striking architecture, some of the best restaurants on the East Coast, and more than a few examples of the things that make Florida unique.

With sister city Bradenton adjoining it – just 25 minutes away from downtown – residents of either one can boast they are right in the midst of two of Florida's most desirable cities. Miles of quality beach and Florida vacation getaways like Longboat Key and Holmes Beach await.

Let's take a closer look at some of the unusual attractions in Sarasota:

• The John N. & Mable B. Ringling Museum of Art – 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243
  The John N. & Mable B. Ringling Museum of Art is located on the former estate of circus magnate John Ringling. Established in 1927 and including 21 galleries of art and antiquities from Europe, Asia, and the Americas, it spans 66 acres. In addition to the Museum of Art, you can visit the Circus Museum commemorating the history of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus.
  
  
• Siesta Key – See Website for Location Details
  Siesta Key may just be the #1 place in Florida to enjoy the soft sand and glittering surf of the Gulf of Mexico. This barrier island is known for Siesta Key Public Beach, where the fine white sand is cool all year around. It also features a number of secluded spots where you might spot a dolphin.
  
  
• Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
  Marie Selby Botanical Gardens features two campuses giving visitors the opportunity to see an array of air plants from all over the world. The facilities are deeply connected with the traditional land stewardship of Florida's native people and are open all year long except on Christmas Day.
  
  
• Mote Marine Lab & Florida Research Aquarium – 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
  Mote Marine Lab & Florida Research Aquarium is one of the crown jewels of Florida's tireless efforts to uncover secrets of the Atlantic. Researchers here nurse injured marine life back to health while gathering data that helps humans and the environment. You may have the chance to see manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, and many others. The rays are among the most popular at the aquarium.
  
  
• Save Our Seabirds – 1708 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
  While you're learning more about the unique Florida ecosystem at Mote Marine Laboratory, you can take a two-minute walk to Save Our Seabirds, an animal hospital that rescues, rehabilitates, and then releases ill and injured Florida wildlife, especially birds. You can visit with and learn about the birds, including the facility's permanent residents, with the help of experienced scientists and caregivers.
  
  
• Saint Armands Circle – See Website for Location Details
  Located on the island of Saint Armands Key, just across from Sarasota, Saint Armands Circle is a lively shopping, dining, and entertainment district. Under the watchful eye of the famous John Ringling statue, you can discover more than 130 boutiques and specialty shops, including many you won't find anywhere else. Connected to the mainland by two bridges, it's a world away from the hustle and bustle.

Inspired to turn your visit to Sarasota into a move? Contact us to find out more or get started.

If you live in Sarasota, FL, you're lucky to experience the area's amazing weather, abundant recreational opportunities, and countless family-friendly destinations. You'll also find numerous special events that cater to nearly every interest, whether you're a baseball fan or are searching for the perfect antique.

Our real estate agents suggest checking out the following events coming to Sarasota in 2022:

• The Simon & Garfunkel Story - Feb. 12, 2022 - Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236 
  The Simon & Garfunkel Story is an immersive, concert-style theater show that tells the story of the folk-rock duo using a full live band and state-of-the-art video projection and lighting. It takes you through their history, starting with their beginnings as Tom & Jerry and culminating with "The Concert in Central Park" in 1981 with over half a million fans. Along the way, you'll be treated to such hits as "Bridge Over Troubled Water," "Mrs. Robinson," "Homeward Bound," and more.
  
  
• Sarasota Audubon Society Guided Walks: The Celery Fields, Second Mondays - Feb. 14, and Mar. 14, 2022 - Celery Fields, 6893 Palmer Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34240
  Join bird experts Peter Brown and Kelley Berkey on a Sarasota Audubon Society Guided Walk in The Celery Fields. The 400-plus acre site is owned by Sarasota County and is on the Great Florida Birding Trail, so you're likely to see many species along the way. Over 200 species of birds have been identified at The Celery Fields. Walkers and bird-watchers should meet at the Raymond Road Boardwalk and then proceed on the walk.
  
  
• The Sarasota FL Antiques Show - Feb. 26-27, 2022 - Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
  If you love antiques, you won't want to miss The Sarasota FL Antiques Show, where you'll be able to shop inside in an elegant, comfortable atmosphere. Over 50 national and regional exhibitors will have smaller wares displayed in showcases and larger pieces such as furniture attractively arranged so you can appreciate them up close. You'll be able to see and buy fine antiques as well as decorative and fine arts from ancient times to the 20th century.
  
  
• 33rd Annual Venice Italian Feast & Carnival - Feb. 24-27, 2022 - Venice Airport Festival Grounds, 610 Airport Ave. E., Venice, FL 34285
  You know an event is going to be fun when it's been an annual event for over 30 years! Head over to the Venice Airport Festival Grounds for the 33rd Annual Venice Italian Feast & Carnival. The festival put on by the Italian American Club of Venice has live entertainment, carnival rides, and of course fantastic food! Be sure to stop by after looking at Venice homes for sale.
   
• Baltimore Orioles MLB Spring Training - starting Feb. 26, 2022 - Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St., Sarasota, FL 34237
  When Major League Baseball starts spring training in 2022, they'll have 15 teams playing in Florida's Grapefruit League and taking advantage of the area's great weather. Teams include the Baltimore Orioles, who play their home games at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. Games offer a fun, relaxed way to see your favorite MLB players, as well as some promising minor leaguers who are trying to break into the major leagues. 

Contact us if you'd like to see Sarasota homes for sale or Bradenton homes for sale. Established in 1939, we've earned a reputation for providing professional, personal service. We live and work in the community and would love to help you with your real estate transactions. 

Our real estate agents want to introduce you to the taste of Sarasota!

Florida is known for its excellent seafood, but that is only the beginning. No matter if you are exploring Sarasota homes for sale, going with Bradenton homes for sale, or looking elsewhere in the area, you are sure to enjoy this region's food culture.

While all your favorite chains are represented, unique chef-led restaurants are a big part of what makes Sarasota special. These run the gamut from small, family-owned eateries – often in historic buildings – to acclaimed locales led by some of the most famous chefs in the world.

As a result, the flavors of Sarasota incorporate influences from all across the globe. With such a strong blend between local community restaurants and celebrity chefs who come to the city to show they've made it big, there's an endless array of options for you to savor.

Let's take a closer look at some prime Sarasota picks:

• The Garden Room Cafe at Shoogie Boogies – 1919 Morrill Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
  The Garden Room Cafe at Shoogie Boogies has been described as a dining experience nothing short of being transported to Europe. With a dining room that exudes careful attention to detail in the spirit of continental European elegance, it is one of the top fine dining event venues in Sarasota. 
  
  
• Michael's on East – 1212 East Avenue South, Sarasota, FL 34239
  Michael's on East is "top of the line" all the way, starting with one of the most auspicious domain names in dining ("bestfood.com") and following through with world-class food and guest experience. Whether you are looking for a full three-course dinner, desserts like the chocolate peppermint torte and layered pumpkin kiss, or a relaxing time in the lounge, Michael's on East will never disappoint.
  
  
• Euphemia Haye – 5540 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228
  Euphemia Haye features both a lounge and a dedicated dessert room that has received high praise from the local culinary press. The lounge was converted into a relaxed "bachelor pad" atmosphere, as it was the former owner's apartment. The dessert lounge allows you to view the complete selection of daily fresh-baked pastries and other delights before you select the one that's right for you.
  
  
• Indigenous Restaurant – 239 South Links Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236
  Indigenous Restaurant is a seasonal American eatery focused on the freshest local ingredients with the lowest environmental impact. It emphasizes sustainable seafood with a carefully designed supply chain that empowers local fishermen, artisans, and farmers. As a result, the menu can change as frequently as twice a week, and there's always a delicious new delicacy for you to try.
  
  
• The Old Salty Dog – 1601 B. Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
  With three locations across Sarasota and Venice, The Old Salty Dog is a popular selection for authentic Floridian family dining and fun. The menu has a little bit of everything, from starters to soups and salads, sandwiches, dogs and burgers, and food baskets. The homemade crab dip, lobster roll, firecracker wrap, and Caribbean jerk tacos are just a few of the favorites.

The culinary scene is one of the many draws of living in the Sarasota area. Contact us today to learn more about what Sarasota has to offer.

Southwest Florida is known for its gorgeous waterfront, and what better way to enjoy that waterfront than at the Englewood Beach Waterfest? Whether you live in the area or are in town to look at Englewood homes for sale, this event is a must-see. Last year's event was canceled due to COVID-19 concerns, but the festival is back and better than ever for November 18th - 21st, 2021. Here are the other key details about each of the activities at the festival.

• Powerup Pre-Race Party: 260 Maryland Ave., Englewood, FL 34224
  The Powerup Pre-Race Party kicks off Englewood Beach Waterfest on November 18th. It is scheduled for 5 - 10 pm at The Lighthouse Grill. There's a cash bar, and guests can choose dishes from a special pre-race menu. You can also listen to live music, meet some of the drivers who will compete over the weekend, and chat with other fans. 
  
  
• Waterfest Block Party: 262 S. Indiana Ave., Englewood, FL 34223
  The Waterfest Block Party is another great way to get excited about the upcoming water sports competitions. It takes place on Friday, November 19th, between 5 and 9 pm at the Englewood Shopping Center. There will be food for sale, delicious drinks, and live music to enjoy. Throughout the evening, the race boats will parade through the shopping center, giving you the chance to see them up-close. 
  
  
• OPA Racing World Championships: Beach Rd., Englewood, FL 34223
  This is the highlight of Englewood Beach Waterfest! The OPA Racing World Championships are scheduled for Saturday, November 20th, and Sunday, November 21st. The gates at Englewood Beach will open at 9 am both days, and the races begin at 10 am.
  
  The OPA Championships bring numerous powerboats to the water off the coast of Englewood. You can watch them power along at incredible speeds over 150 miles per hour. There are various purses they compete for throughout the day. For example, in previous years, the drivers have competed for a $10,000 Geico Triple Crown Purse. In 2019, there were 75 boats overall. A similar number is expected for 2021. Races should conclude around 4:00 pm each day.
  
  You can purchase Waterfest tickets online for $20 per person or pay $25 per person at the gate. Tickets are for both days and include parking and bus transportation to Englewood Beach. Children under 12 get free admission with the purchase of an adult ticket.
  
  
• The Family Conservation Center: Englewood Beach
  The Family Conservation Center along Englewood Beach will also be open during Waterfest. Here, you can learn about sea creatures, including horseshoe crabs, sea turtles, coral reefs, alligators, and various birds. 
  
  The Family Conservation Center also hosts a number of fun kids' activities. Kids can have their faces painted, help build a boat, create sand art, or go on a sea-themed scavenger hunt. There's even a photo booth where you can snap a memorable photo with your favorite sea creature.
  
  
• Cantina and Food Court: Englewood Beach
  There will be several tents on the beach throughout Waterfest. These tents will serve as a food court where local restaurants will prepare various seafood and regional dishes. There's also an on-site bar serving beer, wine, and the signature Raceday Cocktails. 

Life on the water is something to celebrate in the Englewood area. If you're looking at Bradenton homes for sale or Sarasota homes for sale, we recommend stopping by for this annual event. Our real estate agents would be happy to help you find the perfect home nearby. Contact us to learn more about our services.

Florida may be known as the Sunshine State, but this time of year, we also get our fair share of rain. If dark skies are threatening your beach plans, don't worry! There are tons of fun, family-friendly things to do in the Sarasota area. In fact, our real estate agents often take their families to these spots on their days off. 

• The Ringling: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
  The Ringling is home to an incredible art museum, a circus museum, and 66 acres of stunning bayfront property. It's also home to the Ca'd'Zan, the Venetial Gothic home of John and Mable Ringling, where you can take a step back in time with a personal tour. This is by far one of the most extraordinary museums in the world and is definitely a "must-see" area attraction. 

• Mote Marine: 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236
  Mote Aquarium is another incredible attraction located just minutes from downtown Sarasota. When you visit this aquarium, you'll be able to get up-close and personal with manatees, sharks, sea turtles, otters, and more. Some of the best attractions here include Contact Cove, Florida's Bay Habitats, and Oh Baby! Life Cycles of the Seas. 

• The Met: 35 South Blvd. of the Presidents, Sarasota, Florida 34236
  When you're ready for some serious pampering, you'll want to pay a visit to The Met. This luxury independent fashion house, salon, and day spa is located on St. Armands Circle. When you visit, you can book an appointment for a massage or facial, shop for incredible clothing and accessories, and visit their in-house fine jewelry counter. St. Armands Circle is just a short drive away from some of the best Sarasota homes for sale, so while you're there, be sure to take a drive around and explore some of these stunning neighborhoods. 

• Regal Hollywood: 1993 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236
  Watching a movie in the theater is a great way to spend a rainy day in Sarasota. The Regal Hollywood theater shows both new releases and classics on the big screen. If you're a movie fan, you can also join the Regal Crown Club, where you'll earn credits for the money you spend on tickets and concessions, or even join the Unlimited Program, which lets you watch as many movies as you want, as often as you want! 

• The Mall at UTC: 140 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243
  You can shop 'till you drop at The Mall at University Town Center! This upscale mall features many of the most popular stores, including Macy's, Dillard's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Lululemon, Michael Kors, and more. It's also a premier dining location, offering incredible restaurants like Season's 52, The Capital Grille, Brio Tuscan Grille, and The Cheesecake Factory. 

• Artisans World Marketplace: 128 S. Pineapple Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236
  Another wonderful shopping adventure to enjoy on a rainy day, Artisan's World Marketplace is a fair trade gift shop that carries handmade goods by artisans from around the globe. Here you'll find unique art, jewelry, and other items from Africa, Asia, and Oceania. When you visit this store, you'll find a wide selection of unique and beautiful items and can also feel good knowing that every purchase you make supports their mission to help rebuild villages and improve people's lives. 

Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started. Your dream home is out there waiting for you, so don't delay! 

Happy birthday, Sarasota County! We love calling this area home and are excited to celebrate this occasion. Sarasota County was formed on July 1, 1921, but the celebration is lasting all month long, and then some! Join our real estate agents in celebrating the centennial with these exciting events and activities taking place around Sarasota homes for sale.

• Venice Museum & Archives - 351 Nassau St. S., Venice, FL 34285
  What was Sarasota like during its formative years? Take a visual tour with Celebrating a Centennial: The Origins of Sarasota, a current exhibit at Venice Museum & Archives. Photos tell the story of Sarasota's origin and development, along with the specific role played by Venice. While you're there, check out the other exhibits that give a fascinating glimpse of architecture, nature, and other features of the area. Celebrating a Centennial runs through January 12, 2022. Hours are 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and admission is free.
  
  
• The Ringmaster's Wife - Senior Friendship Centers, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, FL 34236
  Sarasota served as the home of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The Ringmaster's Wife turns the spotlight on Mable Ringling, wife of John Ringling. An authentically dressed presenter will share Mable's first-hand perspective behind the scenes of "The Greatest Show on Earth." Light refreshments will be served and former mayors of Sarasota will be on hand for a meet-and-greet. The presentation takes place on Thursday, October 21, from 9 a.m. - noon. Admission is free.
  
  
• Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Sale - Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Rd., Sarasota, FL 34241
  Sarasota's natural beauty is one of the biggest draws for residents and visitors. Beautify your own home with purchases at the Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Sale. The annual event is held by the IFAS Extension of the University of Florida to promote sustainable gardening. This year's event will have some added flair as part of the centennial celebration. Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 9, from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Admission is free.
  
  
• Sarasota County Auto Tours 
  Learn the backstory behind Sarasota's top landmarks with Sarasota County Auto Tours. This new app, offered by the Sarasota County Centennial Committee, provides travel directions and audio narration that allow you to explore these points of interest at your own pace. Eight tours are available, each with its own specific focus. Areas covered include Bayfront, Downtown, and 5 Points, and Phillippi. Download the free app at Google Play for Android or the App Store for iPhone. 
  
  
• Avenue of Art - Burns Square, 543 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
  What does Sarasota mean to you? In conjunction with the centennial, founders of the iconic Chalk Festival are sponsoring the Avenue of Art. Participants of all ages are filling the sidewalks in Burns Square with paintings that depict their vision of Sarasota County. Stroll the area any time of day or night to view these personal works of art. A QR code that displays information about the artist and the painting is being added to each completed work. The project will remain on display until September 30, prior to the Chalk Festival's "Spirited Festivities" over Halloween weekend. Budding artists can apply on the website. Donations of $10 for adults and $5 for students are welcome.

Ready to be a part of Sarasota County's next 100 years? If you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Wagner Realty to get started.

When potential buyers begin searching for Sarasota homes for sale, they often ask about things to do here. Boating and fishing top the lists of our real estate agents for outdoor fun in Sarasota.

Choosing the right charter means the difference between an incredible experience you'll never forget, and a day that's just so-so. To help make sure you enjoy every minute of your trip, we've created the following list of our favorite local fishing and sailing charters. 

1. Sarasota Fishing Charters -  2576 Hillview Street, Sarasota, FL 34239
   For a family-friendly fishing trip, Sarasota Fishing Charters with Captain Jack Hartman is a great choice. He welcomes all anglers from beginners to those with expert skills. The tours cover local area waters including Sarasota, Siesta Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key, and Anna Maria Island and are ideal for catching Taron, Redfish, Snook, and other Florida fish species. 
   
   
2. Charter Fishing Sarasota - 1718 Cherry Lane, Sarasota, FL 34236 
   Sarasota Charter Fishing is also a family-friendly experience. You can choose from inshore charter fishing in Sarasota Bay, sport fishing, offshore fishing, or a custom deep-sea charter. Some of Captain Will's favorite fish to catch include Snapper, Grouper, Shark, Kingfish, Amberjack, and Barracuda. Charter guests also love the exceptionally smooth ride that the 23' Maco offers. 
   
   
3. Key Sailing: 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236 
   Book your adventure through Key Sailing and join Captain Tim and First Mate Jen on their 41' Morgan yacht. Whether you want to relax and enjoy the sunset, view local waterfront properties, or take the helm for a sailing lesson, Captain Tim and First Mate Jen are happy to accommodate you.  This Sarasota adventure is an excellent option for a couple's "date night," while families with children are encouraged to book one of their affordable private charters. 

4. Captain Jack's Charters - 6174 Clark Center Ave. Sarasota, FL 34238 
   Captain Jack's Charters allows guests to experience the luxury of a 42-foot yacht. It's perfect for sunsets and sightseeing and available for weddings, birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and other special occasions. They'll arrange full catering with food and drinks, or you're welcome to bring your own. 
   
   
5. Siesta Kation Sarasota Fishing Tours & Charters - 5587 Merrimac Dr. Sarasota, FL 34231
   For the ultimate well-rounded boating experience, look no further than Siesta Kation Sarasota Fishing Tours & Charters. Some of the services they offer include sightseeing, dolphin tours, diving, snorkeling, shelling, tiki bar tours, and sunset cruises. They also offer inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing excursions. Choose the charter package that's right for you or have them create a completely custom package to suit your needs. 
   
   
6. Inshore Addict Charters - 1059 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
   Captain Matt Davie of Inshore Addict Charters specializes in light tackle, inshore, and nearshore fishing. Both beginners and seasoned anglers are welcome on these charters. You can expect to catch local species like Snook, Trout, Tarpon, and Redfish. Sometimes, you'll also come across Sheephead, Cobia, Grouper, and more. 

Are you thinking about buying a home in the Sarasota area? Wagner Realty can help! Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started. 

Our REALTORS® are always thrilled when new residents come to Sarasota to look for a home and ask about interesting things to see and do. Inevitably, we direct them to a popular destination with public art that comes with quite a storied past. 

Sarasota's "Unconditional Surrender"

One of the most photographed statues in Florida, if not America, is a 26-foot tall statue that calls Sarasota home. It commemorates the famous photo that appeared in LIFE magazine of a young U.S. sailor dipping and kissing a nurse in Times Square on the day World War II ended. The statue, Unconditional Surrender, is part of a series of statues created by American artist Seward Johnson and can today be found in Sarasota's Bayfront Park.  This statue pays homage to the "Greatest Generation" and the joyful celebrations at the end of the war, but its placement in the park has a rather interesting history.

Statute Calls Sarasota Home Three Times

Sarasota's Bayfront Park has had the "kissing sailor" statue come and go on three separate occasions. Its story alone makes it worth a visit when you are ready to take a break from seeing Sarasota homes for sale.

In 2005, the statue made its first appearance when a heavy duty styrofoam version was placed in the park on a temporary basis. It was initially met with mixed reviews from locals who either loved it or hated it. After a couple of years, a foundation established by the artist decided to relocate the statue, so it was loaded onto a flatbed trailer and trucked across the country to San Diego. Then in 2009, thanks to the efforts of a local WWII veteran and art patron, a new, painted aluminum version of the statue was purchased and delivered back to Bayfront Park.

Unfortunately, it was placed just a little too close to the busy intersection, and just three years later, a woman driving a Mercedes jumped the curb and hit it, knocking a big hole in the sailor's foot and causing more than $125,000 in damage. So, once again, the statue was loaded on a flatbed, and this time it was trucked to New Jersey where it endured six months of painstaking repairs.

After the statue was repaired, it was returned to Sarasota in December 2012, once again placed in Bayfront Park, but this time, city leaders had it installed further from the road near the shoreline where it currently remains.

Today the statue is one of the most popular stops for tourists who visit Sarasota, and most residents have grown fond of it too. On any given day you can see couples recreating the famous "kissing sailor" pose for their own selfies and photographs.

Wagner Realty to Make Sarasota Your Home

So when you're looking for a new home in Sarasota, be sure to contact Wagner Realty, and before, during or after visiting homes with one of our agents, make a trip to Bayfront Park to see the famous "kissing sailor" statue. With a story like this, we're fairly certain it will become one of your favorite places to bring your friends and family when they come to visit you in your new Sarasota home.