Apr. 10, 2024: With St. Armand’s Circle’s elegant shopping and restaurants just behind it, Lido Key is Florida’s cosmopolitan Gulf Coast beach choice thanks to soft sand, gentle waves, and a low-key, family-friendly vibe. While not as well known as South Beach or Clearwater, Lido and Sarasota itself earn high marks for charm and hospitality, just like these other amazing Florida beaches locals want to keep secret.