SARASOTA, Fla.—Historically speaking, there is no better destination for those interested in exploring the past than the south end of Sarasota County. Beaches filled with sharks' teeth dating back to prehistoric times, a train depot that welcomed the circus in its heyday and the fabled Fountain of Youth are just a few of the many gems found along the south coast of the county.

Warm Mineral Springs, home to the Fountain of Youth said to have been discovered by Juan Ponce de Leon in 1513, boasts a 9-million-gallon spring of 51 minerals and a year-round temperature of 87 degrees. Its spa offers a natural wellness experience that includes free classes in yoga, tai chi and more, as well as spa treatments that enhance the spring's natural curative powers through traditional European treatments and ancient Asian techniques.

 Nature lovers interested in bird watching, photography and on-the-water exploration will find the mangrove islands and tidewater flats of Lemon Bay and quiet enclaves of Manasota Key's Blind Pass Beach a treasure trove of eco-friendly experiences. Venice and Caspersen beaches are considered the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World" and offer beachcombers a plethora of prehistoric sharks' teeth and other fossils that appear on the shore by the hundreds. Some of the biggest finds are made while snorkeling or diving just off Venice's shoreline with one of the local dive boat operators.   

The Venice Train Depot, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, serves as a gateway to the past. In the 1950s, the train welcomed the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus each winter as performers and animals alike enjoyed a well-earned respite. Walkers and bikers enjoying the Legacy Trail end at the depot, and are offered the choice of continuing on to the Venetian Waterway Park or crossing the Intracoastal Waterway to Caspersen Beach and Park.

Outdoor lovers will find North and South Jetty parks an ideal setting for surfing, fishing and volleyball. Casey Key's Spanish moss-canopied roadways wind along a series of waterfront mansions that have to be seen to be believed. The Casey Key Fish House is a great place to take in a sunset and enjoy fresh seafood straight from the Gulf.

Enjoy the bistros of downtown Venice before heading over to the Crow's Nest Marina and Restaurant to rent a Duffy Electric Boat, perfect for exploring the natural sights of the Intracoastal Waterway.  Each cost- and energy-efficient boat accommodates up to 10 adults. Afterward, enjoy a drink in the Crow's Nest's downstairs tavern, followed by surf and turf in the upscale dining room above.

Explore the shops and art galleries of Englewood's quaint Dearborn Street or check out the Hermitage Artist Retreat, an artist community designed to inspire creativity. While open to the public only a couple of days a week, the Hermitage sponsors lectures and other events through the Asolo Theatre that are open to the public for a nominal fee.

For more information on discovering Sarasota and Florida's Gulf Coast, call the VISIT SARASOTA COUNTY at 800-522-9799 or visit www.visitsarasota.org, as well as www.discovernaturalsarasota.com.

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Contact:

LYNN HOBECK BATES

VISIT SARASOTA COUNTY

941.955.0991 ext. 103

LHOBECK@visitsarasota.org