This Sarasota Florida Gulf beach is just west of St. Armand's Circle on Sarasota's Lido Key. The beach is within a 10 minute walk of the restaurants and shopping of St. Armand's Circle.
North Lido used to be famous for its acceptance of topless female sunbathers, but this is no longer the case. However, the quiet, northern reaches of the key are popular with gay sunbathers. In fact, the web site gayinsarasota.com refers to North Lido Beach as "a unique homo-haven on the sand." There are quite a few dunes covered with sea oats and other beach vegetation that provide cover for those wishing to be discreet in tanning wearing their thong, or whatever.
A 22 acre park, North Lido Park, looks like a forest above the beach and provides a trail to the northern parts of the beach. The beginning of the trail is on Emerson street, but alas, there is no parking for cars. The "high-end" visitors are attracted to St. Armand's because of the exclusive boutiques, art galleries, fine dining, and cafes that create a busy, but relaxed beachfront hangout for the well-heeled (mostly).
Nearby beaches are Lido Public Beach and South Lido Beach Park
Looking south from North Lido Beach.
Walking along Ben Franklin Drive toward the beach at North Lido.
Beautiful Gulf of Mexico waters at North Lido Beach.
This sand foot/bike trail runs all the way to New Pass, about 3,500 feet.
Trail end at New Pass. Tall condos are on southern Longboat Key.
On the far reaches of North Lido there are no lifeguards. Dogs not allowed.
Entrance to North Lido Park.
North Lido Park signage.
You can see the big beach hotels on Lido Beach in this photo.
