There are a number of ideal shopping locations here in Sarasota, whether you are looking to get ahead and start on your holiday shopping, searching for unique souvenirs for friends and family, or hoping to enjoy some retail therapy. From Siesta Key Village to St. Armands Circle and UTC to the Sarasota Farmers Market, Siesta Key has no shortage of creative, beachy, stylish, or classic items to browse. Rain or shine, there is always time for a shopping spree during your visit to Siesta Key and Sarasota.
Siesta Key Village
For classic beachy souvenirs, Siesta Key Village is your go-to spot. The Village is located on the North end of Siesta Key and you can get there by traveling north on Beach Rd. to Ocean Blvd. The free Siesta Breeze Trolley will take you there too. Many shopping and dining options are available in Siesta Key Village such as Gidget’s Coastal Provisions, Beach Bazaar, Gilligan’s, Blasé Café and the Hub just to name a few.
On Midnight Pass and Stickney Point roads, near Public Beach Access 12 toward the south end of Siesta Key, you’ll find a variety of large souvenir shops and beachy boutiques that offer funky, hip, stylish, and essential beach accessories, clothes, and gifts. Eateries abound as well such as Clayton’s Siesta Grille and the Toasted Mango Café. Quirky Captain Curt’s outdoor tiki venue and their award winning Clam Chowder is available on this end of the island too. You are sure to find what you are looking for to take back home after visiting Siesta Key Village and South Siesta Key.
St. Armands Circle
Stylish boutiques, sophisticated shops, and specialty stores make up the large, colorful, and exciting St. Armands Circle. Unique boutiques like Apricot Lane Boutique, Foxy Lady, and Shore are mixed in among classic shops like Lilly Pulitzer, White House Black Market, and Soma. Whether clothing and accessories peak your interest or specialty stores and art galleries capture your attention, there are always beautiful, wonderful, and one-of-a-kind treasures hidden around St. Armands Circle.
The Shoppes at UTC
Classic and familiar stores like Target, Buff City Soap, Dick’s Sporting Goods, HomeSense, TJMaxx, Guitar Center, DogPerfect, and so many more are waiting for you at the Shoppes at University Town Center. Make a trip to UTC during the monthly Night Market, which features a wide variety of local vendors, crafters, boutiques, fresh-cut flowers, houseplants, delicious drinks, mouthwatering food, music, and games. Bring the family, plan a date night, or enjoy a girl’s night of local shopping and relaxation.
The Mall at UTC
The Mall at University Town Center offers two expansive levels of clothing, jewelry, accessories, health & beauty products, home decor, electronics, games, and food, so you can spend hours shopping til you drop! From higher-end stores like Michael Kors, Anthropologie, and Saks on Fifth Ave to family favorites like Build-A-Bear, Vineyard Vines, and H&M, and trending shops like lululemon, Free People, and Sephora, you are sure to find something perfect for everyone on your holiday gift list.
Sarasota and Siesta Key Farmers Market
Wake up on a Saturday morning and head downtown to the Sarasota Farmers Market. While the market is full of fresh produce and delicious homemade cuisine, you will also find crafty and talented vendors with handmade goods, clothes, skincare, and other fun and unique gifts. Enjoy freshly brewed coffees, teas, and juices and snack on mouthwatering pastries, breads, empanadas, and more delightful treats. It’s our favorite way to start the weekend.
The Siesta Key Farmers Market is open on Sunday mornings from 8 AM to 12 PM in the parking lot of Davidson’s Drug Store in Siesta Key Village. Go early and grab breakfast at the Village Café and then take your time perusing through the vendors across the street. From local crafts to our very own Siesta Key Rum, there will be something fun and unique for you to take home.
Although Sarasota and Siesta Key aren’t known for being “shopping destinations,” between the sun, sand, waves, and pool, adventure around town to find great souvenirs and holiday presents for your family, friends, and significant other. No matter their interests, you will have no problem finding the perfect gift.