Top Story — March: Coastal Living features Sarasota as ‘Dream Town'

Less than one month after TripAdvisor named Siesta Key home to the No. 1 U.S. beach, Sarasota continues to gain national prominence with a nod from Coastal Living Magazine.

The lifestyle and travel magazine chose Sarasota as the featured “Dream Town” for March, citing its beaches, architecture, arts and culture, demographics and restaurants, among other local features. Winners from this year include Bodega Bay, Calif., and Dana Point Calif., and the nearby Anna Maria Island has earned the distinction in the past.

"Cultured, creative, and cool, this white sand–blessed Florida town is ready for prime time,” wrote Coastal Living Travel Editor Tracey Minkin in the article.

The article highlights local coffee bar Perq, which is located in Southside Village, under a section touting Sarasota’s younger-skewing crowds. Indigenous, Selva, Owen’s Fish Camp and Shore Diner make appearances in the Eat & Drink category, while Minkin mentions Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota and the Resort at Longboat Key Club as places to stay.

The Ringling gets a shoutout, as well.

"The remarkable reality — and surprise —of Sarasota is the pairing of a thriving arts and culture scene with world-class beaches: a combination that's made all the sweeter by the local, laid-back Gulf vibe.” Minkin wrote.