SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – Sarasota County saw an increase in tourism in July, according to new numbers from Visit Sarasota County, even as Florida tourism overall has declined.
Visitor numbers rise
About 156,000 visitors came to Sarasota County in July, up from about 144,000 last year, according to Visit Sarasota County.
Hunter Carpenter, director of community relations for Visit Sarasota County, said the county saw 13,000 more visitors this July compared to last year and roughly $19 million more in economic impact compared to 2025.
Stephanie and Jeremy Schuster, who live in Ohio, have been visiting the Suncoast for about eight years.
“I think the family memories are nice, plus it’s nice and friendly. The atmosphere where we stay at, everyone is just super friendly,” Stephanie Schuster said.
Florida tourism drops statewide
Florida tourism has dropped for the second straight quarter this year, while Sarasota County’s numbers have moved in the opposite direction.
Carpenter attributed the increase to the county’s identity as what he called Florida’s Cultural Coast, combining its beaches with other attractions.
“Why our numbers are up is because of that difference of being Florida’s Cultural Coast. Those beaches, those attractions, they all tie in, and it’s all intentional,” Carpenter said.
Hotel occupancy and spending increase
Hotel occupancy and room rates are both up in the county. Visit Sarasota County said July marked the third straight month of year-over-year growth.
Visitors spent nearly $146 million in Sarasota County in July.
Sarasota tourism numbers are showing modest gains this year, according to new data released by Visit Sarasota County.(Visit Sarasota County)
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