The main, centrally located public beach on Lido Key, Lido Beach boasts a large public pool, pavilion with restrooms and concessions, plenty of free parking, picnic tables, and lifeguards. Use of the pool does carry a small daily fee.
Secluded and frequented mostly by the residents of the north end of Lido Key, North Lido Beach runs from the southwest end of Ringling Boulevard to the northern end of the island. Limited parking at the southernmost tip of the beach makes for small crowds. Great for long solitary walks.
Stretching from the southeast end of Benjamin Franklin Drive south to tip of Lido Key then heading northeast up the Big Sarasota Pass side of the island, South Lido Beach a natural haven. You'll find picnic tables, grills, a playground, a few camping spots, restrooms, a boat launch, and kayaking through the mangroves. Known as an excellent fishing spot, but due to strong currents through the pass, swimming is not recommended. No lifeguards.