In just a few years, Lido Key will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its purchase by American circus magnate John Ringling. If he was here to witness how this barrier island has developed, he would certainly be pleased.
While touring in Europe with his circus, John Ringling came to love the French and Italian Mediterranean seaside resorts. His vision for Lido Key included a grand casino to attract the Hollywood jet-set. Once that was accomplished, Ringling’s vision extended to St. Armands Circle, which these days is one of the most elegant commercial districts in the Gulf Coast, as well as to the Lido Shores neighborhood, which is one of the most interesting and beautiful examples of residential architecture in Florida.
Lido Key is the closest beach to Downtown Sarasota; it boasts the same dazzling white sands as Siesta Key to the south, but it does not draw as many visitors, which makes it even more ideal for house hunters. The north end of this barrier island has a blend of beach resorts and elegant neighborhoods such as Lido Shores, a community with spectacular homes designed by Sarasota’s finest architects who substantiated Ringling’s vision and came up with the now-venerable Mediterranean revival style. In addition to gorgeous single-family homes, the sidewalks of Lido Shores are graced by marble statues that evoke classical Greek and Roman works of sculpture.
High-rise condominium towers compete with waterfront estates at Lido Key. Most of the condominium properties feature resort-style amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness centers, spas, and more. There are a few spectacular vistas to choose from: The Gulf of Mexico, the Sarasota skyline and St. Armands Circle. All residents live just a short walk from the beach and to the South Lido County Park nature preserve.
Residents of Lido Key can find just about all the comforts of suburban life on the island and St. Armands Circle, but even more shopping, dining and entertainment options are just across the Sarasota Bay. This is an exclusive neighborhood, but property prices are quite reasonable and the housing market is fairly active.
Sarasota Homes at Lido Key
Sarasota Condominiums at Lido Key
