Hurricane Clean Up Status

Question

Hi All,

My wife and I are planning a trip to Sarasota and I wanted to check in and see how the area is recovering after the recent hurricane season. Can someone provide an update when you get a moment? We'll likely stay near the beach at the Ritz or around LIdo/Longboat key in February. This is our first time in the area so if it would be better to push out the trip into the future to allow more clean up so that we get a better experience, we can definitely do that. Any insights would be helpful. Thanks All!

Answer

Sarasota and the surrounding areas, including Lido Key and Longboat Key, have been actively recovering from the recent hurricane season. As of now, most of the major beaches and public spaces have been cleared and are open to visitors, and local businesses have resumed operations. That said, some beach access points or small local establishments may still be undergoing repairs or minor renovations.

Beaches and public areas:

The main beaches near the Ritz-Carlton and around Lido Key are generally clean and accessible, with sand replenishment and debris removal largely completed.
Some beach amenities such as boardwalks or picnic areas may have restricted access or ongoing maintenance, but this typically does not affect the overall beach experience.
Longboat Key has also been reopened for public use, though a few areas may have minor construction or repairs along certain walkways.

Local attractions and services:

Restaurants, hotels, and shops in Sarasota and along the beach corridor are open, with many reporting business as usual.
Some smaller, locally-owned establishments might have reduced hours or limited seating, but most dining and shopping options near Lido/Longboat Key are fully operational.
Golf courses, parks, and other attractions are mostly accessible, though a few may still be finalizing landscaping or other hurricane-related repairs.

Overall recommendation:

Visiting in February should provide an enjoyable experience, as the major clean-up has been completed and the weather is typically pleasant.
If you prefer absolutely pristine and fully restored amenities, waiting another month or two could allow minor repairs to be fully completed, but it is not strictly necessary for a high-quality trip.

In summary, Sarasota, Lido Key, and Longboat Key are welcoming visitors, and your February visit should offer a largely unaffected beach experience with access to dining, shopping, and other local attractions.

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