The Scenic John Ringling Causeway: Connecting Land and Sea
Explore the John Ringling Causeway in Sarasota, FL, where stunning bay views and rich cultural experiences await every traveler.
The John Ringling Causeway in Sarasota, FL offers stunning views and a unique experience for tourists. This picturesque route connects the mainland to the beautiful barrier islands, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. As you traverse this iconic causeway, enjoy panoramic vistas of the azure waters of Sarasota Bay, dotted with boats and framed by swaying palm trees. Along the way, stop for photo opportunities and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal paradise.
A brief summary to John Ringling Cswy
- Sarasota, Florida, US
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and beautiful photo opportunities.
- Bring binoculars to spot dolphins and other wildlife in Sarasota Bay.
- Check local events; sometimes, there are cultural festivals or art shows along the causeway.
- Consider biking or walking along the designated paths for a more personal experience of the scenery.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the parks along the way to make your visit even more enjoyable.
Getting There
-
Car
From St. Petersburg Beach, head east on Gulf Boulevard towards Central Avenue. Continue on Gulf Boulevard for about 3 miles until you reach the intersection with 5th Avenue N. Turn left onto 5th Avenue N and continue straight for about 4 miles. This will turn into US-41 N. Stay on US-41 N for approximately 7 miles. Keep an eye out for the signs for Sarasota. Exit onto John Ringling Cswy and follow the signs into Sarasota. You will arrive at your destination, John Ringling Cswy, as you approach the downtown area.
-
Public Transportation
From St. Petersburg Beach, walk to the nearest bus stop along Gulf Boulevard. Take the PSTA Route 18 bus towards St. Petersburg. After about 30 minutes, transfer at the Williams Park stop to the Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) Route 99 bus towards Sarasota. Stay on this bus for about 45 minutes. Get off at the Main Street at Palm Avenue stop in Sarasota. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk to John Ringling Cswy. Head east on Main Street and turn left onto Palm Avenue, which will lead you directly to John Ringling Cswy.
Discover more about John Ringling Cswy
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Landing of the Scots
1.6 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scottish immigrants at the beautiful Landing of the Scots in Sarasota, where history meets stunning waterfront views.
Must See Sarasota
1.7 km
Discover the Best of Sarasota at the Must See Sarasota Tourist Information Center, Your Guide to Unforgettable Experiences in Florida.
DeMarcay Hotel
1.7 km
Explore the DeMarcay Hotel, a historical gem in Sarasota, showcasing early 20th-century architecture and rich local history.
Downtown Sarasota
1.8 km
Discover the charm of Downtown Sarasota, where culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty converge for an unforgettable experience.
S. H. Kress and Co. Building
1.9 km
Explore the S. H. Kress and Co. Building, a stunning Art Deco historical landmark in Sarasota, Florida, rich with architectural beauty and local culture.
Harding Circle Historic District
2.2 km
Experience the charm and history of Harding Circle Historic District in Sarasota, Florida, where stunning architecture meets lush landscapes.
Rosemary Cemetery
2.3 km
Explore the serene Rosemary Cemetery in Sarasota, Florida, a historical landmark filled with rich stories and beautiful landscapes.
Sarasota Architectural Salvage
2.5 km
Explore Sarasota Architectural Salvage for unique reclaimed materials and vintage decor that bring history and charm to your home.
North Lido Beach Park
2.5 km
Discover tranquility and natural beauty at North Lido Beach Park, the perfect seaside retreat in Sarasota, Florida.
Historical Society
2.5 km
Explore Sarasota's rich history at the Historical Society, where every exhibit tells a story of the past and shapes the future.
SARASOTA CITY CENTER
2.6 km
Discover the charm of Sarasota City Center, a vibrant park that blends natural beauty, art, and community events in the heart of Sarasota.
The Garden Room Cafe' at Shoogie Boogies
2.7 km
Experience the charm of The Garden Room Cafe' at Shoogie Boogies, where delicious cuisine meets a beautiful garden setting in Sarasota.
Discover Sarasota Tours
2.7 km
Explore Sarasota's vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery with Discover Sarasota Tours, a premier tour operator offering unforgettable experiences.
Mysterium Escape Rooms & VR
2.8 km
Experience thrilling adventures and immersive puzzles at Mysterium Escape Rooms & VR in Sarasota, perfect for families and friends seeking unique entertainment.
The Historic Downtown Village Of Sarasota
2.8 km
Explore Sarasota's Historic Downtown Village, a vibrant hub of art, culture, and dining that captures the essence of Florida's coastal charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bird Key Park
0.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Bird Key Park in Sarasota, Florida—your perfect getaway for relaxation and wildlife watching.
Ringling Bridge Causeway Park
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Ringling Bridge Causeway Park in Sarasota, Florida, the perfect destination for relaxation and stunning sunsets.
Eloise Werlin Park
0.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Eloise Werlin Park, a serene city park in Sarasota, FL, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.
Bayfront Park
1.4 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Bayfront Park, an urban oasis in Sarasota, Florida, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
LeBarge Tropical Cruises
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sarasota's coastline with unforgettable boat tours and scenic cruises from LeBarge Tropical Cruises.
Unconditional Surrender - Sarasota, FL
1.5 km
Explore the iconic Unconditional Surrender statue in Sarasota, FL, a tribute to love and peace at the end of WWII amidst stunning park scenery.
City Island
1.6 km
Discover the tranquility of City Island in Sarasota, a picturesque park perfect for relaxation, picnics, and stunning waterfront views.
J.D. Hamel Park
1.6 km
Experience the peaceful ambiance and stunning views at J.D. Hamel Park, Sarasota's beloved city park for relaxation and recreation.
Florida Studio Theatre
1.6 km
Discover the heart of Sarasota's arts scene at Florida Studio Theatre, where every performance transforms stories into unforgettable experiences.
Dabbert Gallery
1.7 km
Explore Dabbert Gallery in Sarasota, Florida, showcasing contemporary art from talented local and national artists in a vibrant setting.
The Bay Park
1.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of The Bay Park, a waterfront oasis in Sarasota, Florida, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and community events.
Art Uptown Inc.
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant artistic spirit of Sarasota at Art Uptown Inc., showcasing a diverse collection of local and regional art.
Sarasota Opera House
1.8 km
Discover the Sarasota Opera House: A historic venue showcasing world-class opera, concerts, and cultural events in the heart of Florida's vibrant arts scene.
Ken Thompson Park
1.8 km
Discover the beauty of Ken Thompson Park, a scenic Sarasota paradise offering fishing, picnicking, cycling, and endless outdoor fun for everyone.
Selby Library
1.8 km
Explore the tranquil Selby Library in Sarasota, a cultural gem offering vast resources, community events, and a serene atmosphere for all visitors.
Essential places to dine
Marina Jack
1.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning marina views at Marina Jack in Sarasota.
Jack Dusty
1.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Jack Dusty in Sarasota's Ritz-Carlton with stunning bay views and locally sourced ingredients.
O'Leary's Tiki Bar & Grill
1.5 km
Experience tropical dining at O'Leary's Tiki Bar & Grill in Sarasota – where American cuisine meets beachside charm!
CasAntica Ristorante
1.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at CasAntica Ristorante in Sarasota - a must-visit culinary destination for food lovers.
Sage
1.6 km
Experience gourmet dining at Sage in Sarasota—where fine cuisine meets gluten-free innovation in an elegant setting.
Cafe Epicure
1.7 km
Experience the best of Italian cuisine at Cafe Epicure in Sarasota - where every dish is crafted with love and authenticity.
Clasico Italian Chophouse
1.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Clasico Italian Chophouse in Sarasota – where fine dining meets vibrant atmosphere.
Selva Downtown Sarasota
1.7 km
Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Selva Downtown Sarasota - where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant dining experience.
Bijou Garden Cafe
1.7 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Bijou Garden Cafe in downtown Sarasota - where fine dining meets vibrant live music in a lush garden setting.
Rose & Ivy - Steak, Sushi, Cocktails
1.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of steak and sushi at Rose & Ivy in Downtown Sarasota, where culinary excellence meets vibrant nightlife.
Caragiulo's Italian American
1.8 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Caragiulo's Italian American in Sarasota - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
element steak. seafood. pasta.
1.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Element Steak, Seafood, Pasta in Sarasota with fresh ingredients and exquisite dishes served in a vibrant atmosphere.
Duval's Fresh. Local. Seafood.
1.9 km
Experience fresh seafood like never before at Duval's Fresh. Local. Seafood., where every bite tells a story of Florida's rich coastal heritage.
Owen's Fish Camp
1.9 km
Experience fresh seafood and local flavors at Owen's Fish Camp in downtown Sarasota - a true taste of coastal Florida.
Beso
1.9 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas at Beso in Sarasota - where flavor meets tradition in a vibrant setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Swim City
1.5 km
Explore Swim City in Sarasota: Your one-stop destination for trendy swimwear, beach clothing, and accessories for the entire family.
Little Dreamers
1.8 km
Discover unique children's clothing and baby essentials at Little Dreamers, the charming boutique in downtown Sarasota.
Main Gift Shop SRQ
1.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique gifts and local crafts at Main Gift Shop SRQ in Sarasota, Florida, where every item tells a story.
Artisans' World Marketplace
1.9 km
Explore a vibrant gift shop in Sarasota, showcasing unique handcrafted items from artisans around the world in a fair trade environment.
T.Georgiano's Boutique
1.9 km
Explore T.Georgiano's Boutique in Sarasota for a curated selection of trendy footwear, stylish clothing, and unique accessories for all ages.
Darci
1.9 km
Explore Darci, Sarasota's chic women's clothing store, for haute couture, unique accessories, and exceptional customer service in a vibrant shopping district.
Lotus boutique
1.9 km
Discover the essence of Sarasota fashion at Lotus Boutique, showcasing unique women's clothing and stunning jewelry in a chic atmosphere.
Pineapple Lain Boutique
1.9 km
Explore Pineapple Lain Boutique in Sarasota, Florida, for unique clothing and accessories that capture the local fashion scene with style and flair.
Pineapple Rocks LLC
1.9 km
Explore the enchanting world of gemstones, jewelry, and unique gifts at Pineapple Rocks LLC in Sarasota, a rock shop like no other.
Pixie Dust SRQ
1.9 km
Explore the magical world of Pixie Dust SRQ, a unique gift shop in Sarasota offering metaphysical supplies and psychic services for every spiritual seeker.
Sarasota Trading Co
2.0 km
Explore unique antiques and vintage treasures at Sarasota Trading Co in the heart of Downtown Sarasota, a haven for history enthusiasts and collectors.
Motel Therapy Boutique
2.0 km
Explore Motel Therapy Boutique in Sarasota for unique women's fashion and exquisite jewelry, perfect for tourists seeking stylish souvenirs.
L. Boutique
2.0 km
Discover L. Boutique in Sarasota, your destination for stylish women's clothing, beachwear, and accessories that capture the essence of Florida fashion.
Foxy Lady West
2.0 km
Explore Foxy Lady West, a trendy women's clothing store in Sarasota's St. Armands Circle, offering chic apparel and accessories for every style.
Influence Style
2.0 km
Explore Sarasota's Influence Style, a boutique women's clothing store with unique styles and exceptional service in the heart of St. Armands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Perspective Rooftop Pool Bar
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant atmosphere at Perspective Rooftop Pool Bar in Sarasota, where every sip and sunset is a celebration.
Bar Hana
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant taste of Polynesia at Bar Hana, Sarasota's tropical dining destination with exotic flavors and refreshing cocktails.
The Lounge at element
1.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of vibrant atmosphere, exquisite seafood, and creative cocktails at The Lounge at Element in Sarasota.
Joe's On Main
1.9 km
Experience the lively ambiance and delicious flavors at Joe's On Main, Sarasota's top bar for craft beers and pub fare.
Brewster’s
1.9 km
Experience the best of Sarasota dining at Brewster's, where gourmet grill meets a vibrant gastropub atmosphere.
Wink Wink Food and Drink
1.9 km
Discover Wink Wink Food and Drink, a vibrant restaurant in Sarasota offering a fusion of flavors, craft cocktails, and live music in a trendy atmosphere.
Block 15 Cork & Craft
2.0 km
Discover a vibrant wine cellar and tapas bar in Sarasota, offering exquisite wines, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Cask and Ale
2.1 km
Experience the best of Sarasota at Cask and Ale, where delicious food and expertly crafted cocktails come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Evie's Tavern & Grill On Main Street
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Evie's Tavern & Grill On Main Street in Sarasota, where delicious food and lively atmosphere await.
Pangea Alchemy Lab
2.1 km
Discover Sarasota's Pangea Alchemy Lab, where creativity meets mixology in a vibrant lounge setting perfect for any evening.
Lynches Pub & Grub
2.2 km
Discover Lynches Pub & Grub, a vibrant Sarasota pub offering delicious food, craft drinks, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of St. Armands Circle.
Arcade Monsters Lido Beach
2.3 km
Experience the thrill of gaming and delicious food at Arcade Monsters in Lido Beach, a unique bar and amusement center for all ages.
Boos Ice House & Dog Bar
2.3 km
Experience a delightful blend of tasty cuisine and a dog-friendly atmosphere at Boos Ice House & Dog Bar in Sarasota.
Tamiami Tap
2.5 km
Discover Tamiami Tap in Sarasota, where fine dining meets a dog-friendly atmosphere, complemented by live music and delightful small plates.
Raffurty's Bar and Grill
2.7 km
Experience the best of sports culture at Raffurty's Bar and Grill in Sarasota, where great food and live entertainment meet.