If you have never heard of St. Armand’s Circle, it is a small island off the coast of Sarasota, Florida, about an hour outside of Tampa. This is a perfect day trip for any local or visitor to the Gulf coast of Florida.
There is plenty to do in St. Armand’s, from shopping, to eating and drinking, to biking around beautiful homes and coastlines. I recently took a day trip to St. Armand’s and have so many highlights to share with you.
Where to Eat
I have one main recommendation for eating in St. Armand’s. While I am sure there are plenty of amazing dining options, if you only make this a day trip, be sure to grab a meal at the Columbia. This historic and famous Tampa Bay staple has another location right on St. Armand’s Circle. I promise, it is just as good as the original. Be sure to come hungry because I have so many MUST-orders. I highly recommend trying the black bean soup, 1905 Salad, Cuban sandwich and/or mahi sandwich. Additionally, you need to order their famous sangria, or the just as famous (and my personal favorite), Columbia Mojito. What you do not need to order, but it by far the best part of your meal, is your personal-sized Cuban bread. It comes individually wrapped and warm. It is the best part of your experience by far.
Where to Shop
St. Armand’s is known for shopping, with both tourist souvenir shops as well as high-end luxury stores. Some of my favorites are Tommy Bahama (be sure to buy a candle, they are the best), Shore, Everything by Water, Lily Pulitzer, The Met, and Swim City.
What to Do
If you still have time after eating and shopping, and you want to spend some time at the beach, Lido Beach is a public beach with plenty of amenities, like an Olympic-sized pool, playgrounds, and covered picnic areas.
South Lido Park is also a great place to visit. This 100-acre wildlife preserve sites right on the Gulf of Mexico. There are plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas on the beach, and kayak launches.