Three Things: Summer Fun

Sarasota used to be a winter vacation mecca. But all that’s rapidly changing as our summer season continues to blossom. With so much going on, even the locals are developing a whole new attitude toward the warmer months of the year. No more hibernating indoors. Now we’re out enjoying the new sports events and activities that are popping up everywhere. Here are three Sarasota homes currently on the market that celebrate Sarasota’s new attitude toward summer fun.

1. FUN IN THE COUNTRY
5441 Howard Creek Road

For many people, summer means the country. It’s time to get back to our nation’s rural past, to pay a visit to the old family farm. Though we doubt the family farm was ever as elaborate as this elegant version in Myakka Valley Ranches. Designed with a Southwest theme, it sits on more than seven acres of beautifully treed land, complete with a state-of-the-art, eight-stall barn, and direct access to miles of riding trails. The home features a 3,500 square foot pool deck with a two-story cage and summer kitchen. There’s even a saloon, complete with bar. With four bedrooms and four baths, there is plenty of room for everybody, and the home received a complete makeover in 2010. And that other summer staple — the beach — is just 30 minutes away.

Priced at $895,000. For more information, call Paul Wolbers of Coldwell Banker at 941-350-4527.

2. BEACH AND BOATING
750 Tarawitt Drive

Even pricey Longboat Key has its informal side, as shown by this beautifully renovated 2 bedroom, 2 bath elevated cottage home in a pleasant, Old Florida-style neighborhood. With the beach a short walk away and a 37-foot dock — no bridges to the bay — it’s got all the classic summer amenities. (There’s also a pool and spa overlooking the canal.) The home has an open plan with a large kitchen and a balcony/deck. There’s a downstairs bonus room and a two-car garage. With wood floors, a metal roof and a tropical Key West feeling inside and out, this charming, nicely landscaped home has a timeless vacation vibe — summer or winter.

Priced at $675,000. For more information, call Sharon Freeman of Michael Saunders at 941-545-0899.

3. THE ULTIMATE
7902 Sanderling Road

For the ultimate in summer luxury, it’s hard to beat this Gulf-front estate in Siesta Key’s exclusive Sanderling Club. With more than 8,300 square feet of living area — four bedrooms and six baths — there’s plenty of room for family and guests. The spectacular two-story living room offers beautiful views of the water, plus a fireplace and a unique second story “bridge” to the guest wing. The beachfront-pool and spa area is particularly elaborate, and there’s even a tiki bar complete with thatched roof. The 1.5-acre property also borders on Heron Lagoon, with a dock for exploring the pristine mangroves in a kayak. You’ll also enjoy the security of the gated Sanderling Club, with its social activities and famous Paul Rudolph-designed beach cabanas.

Priced at $7,945,000. For more information call Joel Schemmel of Premier Sotheby’s at 941-587-4894.