Tag Archives: Mote Marine

Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sponsors

It’s time to sign up to help sponsor the third annual Crystal Classic Master Sandsculpting Competition!  The Crystal Classic brings the very best sand sculptors from all over the world to Sarasota, Florida.
The entire community appreciates the local sponsors who generously support this world class sand sculpture event.  This year’s event will be held November 9-12 on Siesta Beach, the number one beach in the US, so it’s appropriate that it benefits the Mote Marine sea turtle research program.
Please say “Yes!” when you’re asked to sponsor the 2012 event.  If you have questions about how to get involved, call the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce at (941) 349-3800.

Sarasota Florida Fun Family Activities


Sarasota is a splendid destination for your family vacation.  Yes, Sarasota does have some of the most amazing beaches in the US, but it’s not just a beach destination.  When you’re looking for other diversions, you’ll find a variety of family friendly things to do.

Check out Mote Marine Aquarium for a close up look at marine life and current research and conservation programs.  The entire family will enjoy seeing over 100 species of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, manatees, seahorses and sea turtles.

Mote is open every day of the year from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mote is located at 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy. on City Island, 1 mile north of St. Armand’s Circle.

For the animal lovers, the Big Cat Habitat is a sanctuary for animals right here in Sarasota.  Not just tigers and lions and bears…you can also see coatimundis, a camel, birds, lemurs, tortoises and more.  And don’t miss the Mia the Liger.  Yes, a liger – her mother is a Bengal tiger and father is a lion!

The sanctuary is located at 7101 Palmer Blvd.  The habitat opens at 12:30 five days per week, but the schedule may be changed based on the weather.  So check their event calendar for current activities and prices or call them at (941) 371-6377 for all the details.

Your children will also appreciate some non-structured, imaginative play time.  Make sure you plan to visit the unique Sarasota Children’s Garden and let the kids be kids.  You can’t beat this whimsical spot for family fun.

These are just a few of the family friendly amusements you’ll find when you vacation in Sarasota.

Sarasota Florida Sand Sculpture


Matt Long – master sand sculptor from NY – at the 1st annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic Master Sand Sculpture festival. This event was held to benefit Mote Marine sea turtle research.  Ten teams of master sculptors competed for $9000 in prize money.  The 3 day event also included live music and sand sculpting lessons.  Numerous local volunteers and businesses were involved in making this first ever master competition a success.  The crowd was estimated at 40,000+ for the first annual 3 day event.

The dates for the second competition have been set for November 10-13, 2011.