This year, our season in Southwest Florida both began and ended at Lido Key Beach in Sarasota.  Surrounded by gorgeous palm trees and wildlife, we captured its beauty with our drone while photographing a family session on the beach.  We stayed at the incredible Embassy Suites by Hilton and took full advantage of their rooftop pool!  Traveling down the coast, we arrived at Manasota Beach Park in Englewood and discovered their secret treasure: shark teeth by the dozens!

Southwest Florida is an absolutely incredible destination, and one we are now thrilled to be able to call our “home away from home.”  Whether you are traveling for a vacation, or in the area for a wedding, engagement, or portrait session, we have discovered a few new favorites this year, and wanted to share them with you! 

Beaches we Visited: Manasota Beach in Englewood and South Lido Beach Park in Sarasota

Parking: We parked for free at both beaches!

Walk to Beach: We parked in a lot and walked across the street to get to Manasota Beach.  South Lido Beach Park is a very large park with a parking lot surrounded by beach access to the West, South, and East.

Amenities: Both beaches offer restrooms, shelters, picnic areas, and South Lido Beach offers a great playground for the kids!  Manasota Beach is an amazing place to discover and collect shark teeth.

Favorite places: Embassy Suites by Hilton, Sarasota offers complimentary breakfast for guests in their beautiful on-site restaurant that sits adjacent to their outdoor rooftop pool.  Guests can swim and dine overlooking both the city and the bay.

Whether you are visiting Florida on vacation, here for your destination wedding, engagement, or portrait session, or simply planning a day at the beach, we hope that these ideas are helpful as you plan your time in the beautiful sunshine state!