So, you saved up all year to go on a vacation to one of Sarasota’s beaches. All you have heard and seen on each beach community’s social media pages in the recent months is how awesome the weather has been, that the waves in the Gulf are just perfect, the pool is the right temperature, and the tennis courts are top notch. You’ve seen photos of shorebirds, seashell finds, kayak adventures and the sunsets. Oh, yes…the sunsets.

But as soon as you arrive you are looking at rainy weather for a day or maybe 3. Ugh. What do you do at the beach, on vacation, when it rains?

Don’t fret. It’ll clear up. But in the meantime, here’s a local’s guide to some cool things to do around Sarasota and Bradenton that you can do while you wait out the storm. It’s not an exhaustive list but will get you started to plan your rainy day adventure.

• Bowling at Sarasota Lanes or Gulf Gate Lanes or Bowlero
• Jumpin Fun Inflata Park
• The Ringling Museum
• Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
• University Town Center Mall
• Sarasota Classic Car Museum
• Livingston Amusements
• Sarasota Art Museum
• Red Barn Flea Market
• Sit with a view of the beach and read a book
• Grab lunch at a seafood restaurant (you can eat burgers anytime)
• If the weather’s just drizzly, grab an umbrella or poncho and shop the beach stores on Anna Maria, or St Armands Circle. Most store fronts have awnings to keep you sort of dry
• Take a day trip to St. Petersburg or Ft. Meyers and enjoy their museums and galleries

When the rain stops and the sun comes out you will have more things to do, like head to the beach, the pool or the tennis courts. Enjoy your stay in Sarasota.

Eileen Saunders, Realtor with Michael Saunders & Company 662-404-0816 (m)