🌺 A Peaceful Day at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
If you’re looking for a relaxing Sarasota outing surrounded by tropical beauty, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is an absolute gem. Just a short drive from Trish’s Beach Retreat, this lush waterfront garden offers a quiet escape filled with orchids, banyan trees, and breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay.
🌿 A Garden Oasis by the Bay
From the moment you step inside, you’re transported into a world of color and calm. Pathways wind through tropical foliage, towering palms, and flowering plants in every shade imaginable. The air is fresh and filled with the sweet scent of orchids, and the gentle rustle of palm leaves creates a soothing soundtrack.
We recently visited with Trish’s brother Tom and his wife Fran, and it was such a beautiful, peaceful day to explore together. The gardens are the kind of place that lets everyone move at their own pace — some of us lingered to take photos, while others simply enjoyed strolling and soaking in the scenery.
🌸 The Orchid Display
Selby Gardens is known around the world for its orchid collection, and it’s easy to see why. Inside the glass conservatory, you’ll find thousands of orchids in bloom — delicate, colorful, and absolutely stunning. The displays change seasonally, so there’s always something new to see.
Whether you’re a plant lover or just someone who enjoys a beautiful walk, the gardens have something for everyone.
🌊 Beautiful Views & Peaceful Paths
As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll catch glimpses of Sarasota Bay glistening in the sunlight. Benches are tucked along the paths, inviting you to sit, relax, and take in the view. The waterfront location makes this one of the most peaceful places in the area to unwind and enjoy nature.
We love visiting in the morning when it’s cooler and less crowded — and grabbing a light lunch or coffee at Selby House Café before heading back to the beach.
🌴 Easy Sarasota Day Trip
Located right in downtown Sarasota, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is about a 20-minute drive from Trish’s Beach Retreat, making it a perfect half-day trip. You can easily combine it with a visit to St. Armands Circle or a stroll along the Sarasota Bayfront for a full day of sightseeing and relaxation.
💚 Why We Love It
Selby Gardens is one of those special places that captures the spirit of Sarasota — tropical, peaceful, and full of natural beauty. Visiting with family made it even more special, and it reminded us just how many wonderful experiences are right here in our backyard.
Every time we visit, we leave feeling refreshed and inspired — and always a little more in love with Sarasota.
📍 Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL
🏡 Plan Your Stay Nearby
When you stay at Trish’s Beach Retreat, you’re close to all of Sarasota’s best attractions — from the world-famous sands of Siesta Key Beach to peaceful spots like Selby Gardens.
Come enjoy the sunshine, the gardens, and the beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast. 🌴☀️
📲 Visit TrishsBeachRetreat.com to plan your stay today.