Sarasota is located in and is the seat of the Sarasota County on the southwestern coast of Florida in the United States. The city limits encompass Sarasota Bay and the several barrier islands that lie between the Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The barrier islands, called Keys, are known for their white beaches and its beauty contributes to the city's nickname of 'Paradise'. Current Keys included in Sarasota's jurisdiction include Lido Key, Otter Key, Coon Key, St Armand Key and parts of the Longboat Key and the Siesta Key. The Longboat Key is the largest key that separates Sarasota from the gulf.

A 2004 census reports that Sarasota has a population of 54,349. Tourism is the city's main source of economic profit. It is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and coasts that are the setting for several of the most famous Hotels in the United States.

Aside from its beaches, Sarasota also has several historic landmarks that attract tourists. These landmarks include the Crocker Church, the Bidwell-Wood House, and Pioneer Park. The County purchased the Terrace Hotel in the late 1970s and renovated it to be used as a government office building. Other tourist spots in the city include the Ringling Museum of Art.