Sarasota, FL, is surrounded by vibrant cities and charming suburbs, each offering its unique lifestyle and attractions. From bustling coastal towns to quiet communities, these nearby areas provide diverse opportunities for residents and visitors alike. This guide explores the population, local government, schools, top attractions, and zip codes of the cities and suburbs near Sarasota, giving you a snapshot of what makes each place special.
1. Bradenton
Description: Riverwalk in Brandenton, FL
Bradenton is the largest city in Manatee County, located along the Manatee River. It is known for its historic downtown, riverfront, and proximity to beautiful beaches.
Local Government:
Bradenton has a city government with a mayor and a city council. The city operates under a council-manager system, with departments for public works, parks, and more.
School System:
Bradenton is served by the School District of Manatee County, which offers a variety of public schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools. It also has several private schools and charter options.
Top Attractions:
- The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature
- Riverwalk
- Village of the Arts
- Manatee Village Historical Park
- De Soto National Memorial
Zip Codes: 34205, 34208, 34209, 34210
2. Venice
Description: Humphris Park in Venice, FL
Venice is a coastal city known for its historic architecture and beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. It is also famous for its annual shark tooth festival.
Local Government:
Venice operates under a council-manager system, with a city council that sets policies and a city manager responsible for daily operations.
School System:
Venice is part of the Sarasota County School District. Schools in Venice include Venice High School and several elementary and middle schools, with options for private and charter schools as well.
Top Attractions:
- Venice Beach
- Venice Fishing Pier
- Historic Downtown Venice
- Shark Tooth Festival
- Venice Theatre
Zip Codes: 34285, 34292, 34293
3. North Port
Description: Dallas White Park in North Port, FL
North Port is one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida, known for its affordable housing, parks, and proximity to nature reserves.
Local Government:
North Port operates under a commission-manager form of government, with elected officials setting policies and a city manager overseeing operations.
School System:
The city is part of the Sarasota County School District, with multiple elementary, middle, and high schools, including North Port High School. There are also private and charter school options.
Top Attractions:
- Warm Mineral Springs
- Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park
- North Port Performing Arts Center
- Deer Prairie Creek Preserve
- Atwater Community Park
Zip Codes: 34286, 34287, 34288, 34289, 34291
4. Palmetto
Description:
Palmetto is a smaller city located north of Bradenton along the Manatee River, known for its waterfront parks and historic district.
Local Government:
Palmetto operates under a council-manager form of government with an elected mayor and city commission.
School System:
Palmetto is part of the Manatee County School District, offering public schools like Palmetto High School, along with private school options.
Top Attractions:
- Palmetto Historical Park
- Emerson Point Preserve
- Riverwalk
- Blackstone Park
- Sutton Park
Zip Codes: 34221
5. Lakewood Ranch
Description:
Lakewood Ranch is a master-planned community that spans across Manatee and Sarasota counties. It’s known for its family-friendly environment, parks, and golf courses.
Local Government:
Since it’s an unincorporated community, Lakewood Ranch is governed by the counties it spans—Manatee and Sarasota—rather than having its own local government.
School System:
The area is served by both Sarasota and Manatee County school districts. Public, private, and charter schools are available, including Lakewood Ranch High School.
Top Attractions:
- Lakewood Ranch Main Street
- Premier Sports Campus
- Sarasota Polo Club
- University Town Center
- Summerfield Park
Zip Codes: 34202, 34211
6. Osprey
Description:
Osprey is a small community located between Sarasota and Venice. It’s known for its peaceful environment, historical sites, and access to waterfront areas.
Local Government:
Osprey is an unincorporated area in Sarasota County, meaning it is governed by the county.
School System:
Osprey is part of the Sarasota County School District, with local schools including Pine View School and private options.
Top Attractions:
- Historic Spanish Point
- Oscar Scherer State Park
- Blackburn Point Bridge
- Bay Preserve at Osprey
Zip Codes: 34229
7. Nokomis
Description:
Nokomis is a coastal community just north of Venice. It is known for Nokomis Beach, one of the oldest beaches in Sarasota County.
Local Government:
Nokomis is unincorporated and falls under the jurisdiction of Sarasota County for governance.
School System:
Schools in Nokomis fall under the Sarasota County School District. It also has nearby private and charter school options.
Top Attractions:
- Nokomis Beach
- Legacy Trail
- Dona Bay
- Oscar Scherer State Park
- Nokomis Groves
Zip Codes: 34275
8. Siesta Key
Description:
Siesta Key is a barrier island community known for its powdery white sand beaches, particularly Siesta Beach, consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world.
Local Government:
Siesta Key is an unincorporated area within Sarasota County, governed by county officials.
School System:
Siesta Key is served by the Sarasota County School District, with students attending nearby schools such as Sarasota High School.
Top Attractions:
- Siesta Beach
- Point of Rocks
- Siesta Key Village
- Turtle Beach
- Crescent Beach
Zip Codes: 34242
9. Longboat Key
Description:
Longboat Key is a scenic barrier island known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and beautiful beaches.
Local Government:
Longboat Key has its own town government, with a town commission and a town manager responsible for its operations.
School System:
As Longboat Key is a small community, students often attend schools in Sarasota or Manatee counties.
Top Attractions:
- Longboat Key Beach
- Joan M. Durante Park
- Longboat Key Club
- Whitney Beach
- Quick Point Nature Preserve
Zip Codes: 34228
10. Ellenton
Description:
Ellenton is a small, quiet community located along the Manatee River, known for its outlet mall and historical sites.
Local Government:
Ellenton is an unincorporated community in Manatee County, governed by county officials.
School System:
Ellenton is part of the Manatee County School District, with a selection of public, private, and charter schools available.
Top Attractions:
- Ellenton Premium Outlets
- Gamble Plantation Historic State Park
- The Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex
- Manatee River
Zip Codes: 34222
11. Parrish
Description:
Parrish is a growing community known for its rural atmosphere and family-oriented environment, with new residential developments.
Local Government:
As an unincorporated area, Parrish is governed by Manatee County.
School System:
The Manatee County School District serves the area, with several public and private schools nearby.
Top Attractions:
- Florida Railroad Museum
- Parrish Playworks
- Little Manatee River State Park
- Fort Hamer Park
Zip Codes: 34219
12. Englewood
Description:
Englewood spans both Sarasota and Charlotte counties and is known for its arts scene, beaches, and relaxed atmosphere.
Local Government:
Englewood is unincorporated and is governed by both Sarasota and Charlotte counties.
School System:
Englewood has public schools operated by both the Sarasota and Charlotte County school districts.
Top Attractions:
- Englewood Beach
- Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center
- Manasota Key
- Stump Pass Beach State Park
- Indian Mound Park
Zip Codes: 34223, 34224
13. Holmes Beach
Description:
Holmes Beach is located on Anna Maria Island and is known for its picturesque beaches, family-friendly environment, and laid-back lifestyle.
Local Government:
Holmes Beach has a city government with a mayor and city commission.
School System:
Holmes Beach is part of the Manatee County School District, with nearby schools located on the mainland.
Top Attractions:
- Holmes Beach
- Manatee Public Beach
- Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum
- Island Gallery West
Grassy Point Preserve
Zip Codes: 34217
14. Anna Maria
Description:
Anna Maria is a small city located at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, known for its charming cottages, fishing piers, and beautiful beaches.
Local Government:
Anna Maria has its own city government, with a mayor and city commission.
School System: Students typically attend schools in the Manatee County School District, with the closest schools located on the mainland.
Top Attractions:
- Anna Maria Beach
- Bean Point Beach
- Anna Maria City Pier
- Bayfront Park
- Rod & Reel Pier
Zip Codes: 34216
15. Myakka City
Description:
Myakka City is a rural community located east of Sarasota, known for its agriculture and vast open spaces. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful, country lifestyle.
Local Government:
Myakka City is unincorporated and governed by Manatee County.
School System:
Myakka City has a limited number of schools within its community, but it is served by the Manatee County School District.
Top Attractions:
- Myakka River State Park
- Dakin Dairy Farms
- Myakka City Wildlife Rescue
- Bearadise Ranch
- Myakka City Park
Zip Codes: 34251
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cities and suburbs surrounding Sarasota offer a rich variety of lifestyles, from peaceful coastal towns to growing urban communities. Whether you’re looking to explore outdoor attractions, settle into a family-friendly environment, or enjoy the area’s history and culture, these nearby locations have something for everyone. For those interested in learning more about the best neighborhoods in Sarasota itself, be sure to check out our separate article dedicated to exploring the unique character of Sarasota’s neighborhoods.