There are only a few miles between route 41, also known as Tamiami Trail, and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This stretch of the city is called West of the Trail and is a highly sought-after waterfront residential community situated right in the middle of bustling Sarasota.

This area offers proximity to downtown, beaches, healthcare and tons of amenities – all while remaining a tranquil oceanside community flush with grassy front lawns, palm-lined driveways, and, of course, spectacular views.

West of the Trail Area

West of the Trail is bordered by Tamiami Trail to the east, Field Road to the south, and Mound Street to the north. Its northern neighborhoods are within walking distance to downtown Sarasota, whereas southern neighborhoods are about a 10-minute drive.

West of the Trail is safe, upscale, and rich with Florida history. It offers all the benefits of living right downtown, but with the space and community of suburban location.
 

Proximity to Amenities

This chic neighborhood is close to all sorts of amenities – from entertainment to health, to lifestyle.

Sarasota has a booming food scene, with local, organic restaurants of all cuisines cropping up across the city. The city is also known for its art and culture, with museums, performing arts, and educational institutions that will both entertain and awe. Enjoy all these urban perks, but come home to a quiet bayside veranda.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, a popular garden and event space, is located within the neighborhood. These botanical gardens have an impressive library and many species of epiphytes, non-parasitic plants that grow on other plants, that attract researchers from around the world. The gardens are a point of both pride and prestige for the West of the Trail community. The Sarasota Memorial Hospital is located within West of the Trail’s boundaries, making it a popular place to live for healthcare professionals.
 

Family-Friendly Communities

West of the Trail is one of the best places in Sarasota to raise a family. It’s quieter than downtown, but close enough to have everything you need at your fingertips. The residential properties offer outdoor space for families to play and grow. While most of the neighborhoods are not gated, they are built to be tight-knit communities, increasing safety and security.

Sarasota has many top-rated elementary and high schools, both public and private. West of the Trail offers the option to send your kids to a school downtown or just outside downtown.

Neighborhood Highlights

West of the Trail neighborhoods come in all shapes, sizes, and prices, though it is known for its luxury real estate. The houses in the area were built anywhere from the early 1900s to the present day, so expect architectural styles that span more than a century. From Old Florida bungalows to plantation homes to Spanish-style villas, West of the Trail has a house for everyone. West of the Trail even has a few character homes on the historical register.

Cherokee Park, Oyster Bay, Harbor Acres, and McClellan Park are just a few of the neighborhoods in the West of the Trail area. Cherokee Park is one of the city’s oldest developments, and some of the houses were built after World War Two. It is a small neighborhood just a few blocks from the north access bridge to Siesta Key – perfect for those who like both mainland urban island lifestyles.

Oyster Bay overlooks stunning Roberts Bay, which is wedged between Siesta Key and the mainland. McClellan Park is just a few blocks from the hospital at the north end of West of the Trail and offers a prime location for doctors moving to Sarasota to work at one of the state’s top health centers. This neighborhood directly faces Bird Key and is at an equal distance from the bridges to Siesta and Lido Keys. Harbor Acres is between the bay and the retail and restaurant district. It is within easy walking distance of Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Selby Botanical Gardens, and downtown.

When it comes to investing in real estate, Sarasota has a wide array of neighborhoods to choose – West of the Trail is just one of the city’s prominent areas. To view homes for sale in West of the Trail and elsewhere in Sarasota County, check out my current listings.