Florida’s beautiful Gulf coast city of Sarasota is a terrific choice for anyone who enjoys unspoiled beaches of pure white sand and warm, blue seas. One of the top beach and sailing destinations in the US, Sarasota is a great place to visit at any time of year.
It’s easy to reach from almost anywhere, and the Tamiami Trail passes through Main Street in Sarasota as part of US Highway 41.
Voted the best beach in the US, Siesta Keys with its stunning white sand is a favorite with all ages. Marine weather forecasts are issued four times each day, and if you plan on a sailing trip on the Gulf you should check them, particularly if you plan on being at out on the sea overnight.
Sarasota and its key islands enjoy warm water temperatures throughout the year. The location of the city on the Gulf of Mexico where a coastal shelf extends for 150 miles to the west means that waters are consistently shallower and warmer. The water temperature ranges from 66F in December, through 64F in January to 65F in February, making it the coldest time of year for swimmers.
However, it’s ideal for sailors and anglers and with air temperatures of around 70F, days are still warm. The water heats up from March, when it averages 72F, to 76F in April and a warm 81F in May, which is excellent for swimming. The hottest water temperatures are found between June and September, and conditions have been described as being like getting into a warm bath.
Sunshine and warm weather are Sarasota’s main draw for visitors and June and September temperatures of around 85F with a yearly high of 77F during July and August make world famous beaches like Siesta Key a huge attraction. During October the temperature is around 80F and in November it can drop to about 72F, but days are still warm and you can enjoy walks on the beach, fishing or sailing.
14 Days Weather Forecast for Sarasota
Climate for Sarasota
High. Temperature °F (°C) | Mean Temperature °F (°C) | Low. Temperature °F (°C) | Days with rain | |
January | 70 (21) |
61 (16) |
52 (11) |
7 |
February | 72 (22) |
63 (17) |
54 (12) |
9 |
March | 77 (25) |
68 (20) |
59 (15) |
8 |
April | 81 (27) |
72 (22) |
63 (17) |
5 |
May | 88 (31) |
79 (26) |
70 (21) |
5 |
June | 90 (32) |
82 (28) |
74 (23) |
17 |
July | 90 (32) |
83 (28) |
75 (24) |
20 |
August | 90 (32) |
83 (28) |
76 (24) |
17 |
September | 89 (32) |
82 (28) |
74 (24) |
17 |
October | 84 (29) |
76 (25) |
68 (20) |
8 |
November | 77 (21) |
69 (20) |
60 (15) |
6 |
December | 73 (23) |
64 (18) |
55 (13) |
8 |