About Sarasota's St. Armands

The sandy beaches of Lido Key overlook the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. But people who choose to cross the Ringling Bridge from Sarasota all the way to this island do not wish to see the majestic views. There are a slew of things to do in the island paradise of Lido Key. Besides picnicking on the shores of pristine Lido Beach, boating and kayaking, guests will have a grand time at St. Armands Circle which is a premiere shopping destination. This small barrier island off the coast of Sarasota is so inviting that it is not uncommon for visitors to start looking at Saint Armand’s Key real estate listings in a bid to reside in the area for good.

St. Armands circle is famous for its more than 125 high-end boutiques and first class dining spots. One of the selling points of Saint Armand’s Key real estate properties is the fact that shops and other commercial establishments are very conveniently located near the neighborhood. The first person to have envisioned the development of St. Armands is Charles St. Armand. This Frenchman bought the entire area in 1893 for what would seem today as a meager sum of $21.71. This key would be named after its first owner only that a spelling error added an “r” in Mr. St. Amand’s name.

Although St. Armand is to be credited for first purchasing St. Armands Key, the development of the property actually fell on the shoulders of John Ringling, the famous circus magnate. Ringling is to be credited for the development of a circular shopping area which would serve as a central landmark for all the residential properties in the island. By 1926, the Ringling Estates were opened to the public. After the depression rolled in, the causeway which Ringling built to connect the key to Sarasota as well as the other structures at St. Armands’ fell into disrepair. Restorations and renovations were only undertaken in the 1950s. However, the recent rebirth of St. Armands and the palatial residences being built there has attracted many Saint Armands Key real estate agents and property buyers along with them.

Residents of St. Armands’ neighborhoods can take leisurely strolls in Lido Beach which is located just a short distance away from the residential properties of the key. At Lido Key, individuals can choose to chow down a burger at New Pass Grille or head on to Mote Marine Laboratory at City Park to learn more about the marine environment and the creatures that reside in it.

Christina Miller is a Sarasota Florida real estate broker specializing in downtown Sarasota condos. Her business website also features more information on all the Sarasota Florida real estate for sale including information on Sarasota Florida homes in highly rated golf communities. For beach lovers, Christina's website also features information on the Siesta Key condos for sale located along Florida's #1 rated beach.

Delicious Dining Options on St. Armands

Residents of Sarasota know that there are some great restaurants in St. Armands Circle, but those planning to visit might not know about these places. For an awesome breakfast, check out the Blue Dolphin Cafe. Their omelette's are some of the best in Sarasota, and they make their own corned beef hash!

For lunch, I would recommend Cha-Cha Coconuts. This restaurant serves almost everything, including seafood & sandwiches, as well as other island themed fare. If you are thirsty, they have a great selection of refreshing tropical drinks.

If you are looking for something different than island style, Columbia restaurant is the place. Founded in 1905 by Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., an immigrant from Cuba, Columbia restaurant is the oldest in Florida. They are known for their 1905 salad as well as their delectable Ropa Vieja.

Of course, when it comes to restaurants in the Sarasota area, the options are almost endless, but these are some of my favorites on St. Armands Key.

St. Armands Circle Art Festivals

There are many great festivals, shows, exhibits and attractions in the Circle on St. Armands Key, but particularly during season, namely December through April. From the Porsche and Ferrari shows to the arts and crafts fairs, it seems there is always something going on!

The art exhibits seem to draw the biggest crowds, although St. Armands Circle is always busy!

St. Armands Circle is located on St. Armands Key, a barrier island off the coast of Sarasota, Florida and surrounded by Lido Key to the north, west and south.

For more info, visit Sarasota Real Estate.

Vacationers who visit Sarasota, Florida seem to find their way to the popular St. Armands Circle. This is a fun shopping and dining destination where you can get a massage at the Met, do some shopping, enjoy a tasty meal at a fabulous restaurant and follow it up with a nice ice cream from Kilwins all in one place.

St. Armands Circle real estate is usually pretty active. Many people love the idea of living within walking distance to Starbucks, Cha Cha Coconuts, The Collumbia, Tommy Bahamas and the gorgeous Lido Key beach. You have the best of all worlds here on St. Armands Key and Lido Key.

St. Armands Circle Market Update 2010

• 13 homes sold so far in 2010
• Lowest sales price - $285,000
• Highest sales price - $1,700,000
• Average sales price - $801,376
• Median asking price - $650,000
• Average sales price/square feet - $312
• Average days to contract - 220

There are a variety of homes for sale around St. Armands Circle. Asking prices range from $465,000 up to $8,499,000. Like the rest of the Sarasota Florida real estate market prices around St. Armands Circle have declined. It has become much more affordable. You no longer have to spend $700,000 for a dumpy, run down house.

Give me a call at 941.812.6272 if I can help you buy or sell a home in the Sarasota, Florida area.