Sarasota and Siesta Key are beautiful destinations in Florida, known for beaches, parks, and vibrant outdoor lifestyle. If you are a family visiting the area on vacation, biking is an excellent way to explore these areas while getting exercise and having fun. Sarasota and Siesta Key offer several kid-friendly bike riding spots, ranging from scenic waterfront trails to easy-going paths perfect for younger cyclists. Here’s a guide to the best places to bike ride with kids in Sarasota and Siesta Key.
- Legacy Trail: The Legacy Trail is one of the most popular and scenic biking routes in Sarasota County, making it an ideal destination for families. This 10.5-mile-long trail runs from downtown Sarasota to Venice, following a former railroad track through lush landscapes, wildlife habitats, and historic sites.
Why It’s Great for Kids: The trail is paved and flat, making it perfect for cyclists of all skill levels, including kids. It’s also wide enough to allow for comfortable riding side by side, so families can ride together without feeling cramped. There are plenty of rest areas along the trail to stop for a break and enjoy nature. The trail is also mostly protected from traffic and only has a few crossings to navigate.
Highlights: The trail goes through beautiful parks, wetlands, and nature preserves. If your kids enjoy spotting wildlife, there’s a good chance of seeing birds, turtles, and other creatures along the way.
Accessibility: You can access the trail from various points, including the Sarasota Downtown trailhead, making it easy to start your ride from different locations. - Bayfront Park and Marina: Located in downtown Sarasota, Bayfront Park is a lovely spot for family bike riding, with scenic views of Sarasota Bay and easy access to the waterfront. While the park doesn’t have dedicated bike trails, the area around it offers a relaxed environment for a casual bike ride with kids.
Why It’s Great for Kids: The park features wide paths and smooth surfaces, making it an easy and stress-free ride for younger children. There’s also a playground and plenty of open green space where kids can run around and explore after their bike ride.
Highlights: Enjoy the waterfront views and watch the boats dock at the marina. If your kids love animals, you may even spot dolphins playing in the bay. The park is close to several local restaurants and ice cream stands, so you can enjoy a treat after your ride.
Accessibility: Bayfront Park is centrally located in downtown Sarasota, making it an easy stop for families visiting the area. You can park nearby and begin your ride in a safe, pedestrian-friendly environment. - Nathan Benderson Park: Nathan Benderson Park is a hidden gem located just north of Sarasota. It features a large, scenic lake surrounded by walking and biking paths. The park is known for its rowing course, but it also offers a beautiful, family-friendly environment for biking.
Why It’s Great for Kids: The park has a wide, smooth trail perfect for families with children. The trail loops around the lake, offering fantastic water views and plenty of shaded areas to cool off. The park also includes a playground, picnic areas, and restroom facilities so you can make a day of your visit.
Highlights: While biking around the lake, you can enjoy watching rowers practicing or even catch an event if you’re there during a race. The calm, peaceful environment is great for younger kids or those who prefer a slower pace.
Accessibility: The park is easily accessible by car, with ample parking near the entrance, and it’s a great alternative if you want to escape the busier beaches and trails.
Siesta Key Beach Bike Riding
Although not allowed on the main public beach, bike riding is a popular pastime on less frequented stretches of sand on Siesta Key. Biking on the beach is a truly special experience for kids and families who love the beauty of this area. Be sure to call Ride and Paddle to learn more about renting beach bicycles, specifically for riding on the sand.
Sarasota and Siesta Key offer many options for families who want to bike ride with their kids. These spots provide safe, accessible, and enjoyable biking opportunities for families – and Ride and Paddle provides the bicycles you need to spend the day together. Click here to learn more.
