Sarasota Magazine

2 days ago | sarasotamagazine.com | Megan McDonald |Megan Mcdonald

The beloved beach—the only U.S. destination on the list—received high marks for its famous white quartz sand, which stays cool even on hot days; natural beauty; and gentle slope and calm water. Siesta Beach's easy access to the Gulf  and beachgoers' chances of experiencing beautiful weather also earned it top marks.

5 days ago | sarasotamagazine.com | Elizabeth Djinis

I should have known that the cardinals had made their decision when I heard the loud clanging of the bells and saw a pair of young boys sprinting down the street. But it was Rome, it was early Thursday evening, the air was full of crisp May hopes and anticipation. I am, after all, an American journalist in Rome, so bells and boys running didn’t seem so abnormal. It was only when a friend from Sarasota texted me—“Do you see the white smoke?”—that I realized that these had actually been signs.

6 days ago | sarasotamagazine.com | Kim Doleatto

After back-to-back hurricanes shredded the Gulf Coast last fall, barrier island hotels faced a daunting road to recovery. Fierce storm surge swallowed beaches, flooded structures and ripped off roofs, but today, a number of beloved coastal retreats are back open, if not 100 percent back to normal. But with summertime looming, now is the right time for residents to play tourist and book an island staycation.

6 days ago | sarasotamagazine.com | Kim Doleatto

When Larry R. Thompson assumed the presidency of Ringling College of Art and Design in 1999, the institution was a small, regional school with a single-minded focus on the arts. Twenty-six years later, Ringling is a nationally recognized leader in art and design education—a transformation largely attributed to Thompson’s vision and leadership.

1 week ago | sarasotamagazine.com | Kim Doleatto

​​For 15 years, a festival that began as a grassroots tribute to LGBTQ rights icon Harvey Milk has grown into one of the most enduring celebrations in Sarasota. Now known as the Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest, the event returns this week with concerts, exhibits and community gatherings, all culminating in a free outdoor concert at Five Points Park in downtown Sarasota on May 10.