For many people, planning a Sarasota vacation is as simple as getting away from it all, amidst the splendor of sun, sand and beautiful weather that are the Gulf Coast's greatest natural resources. For them, doing nothing is the whole point.

But mere relaxation is not enough for everyone. Thankfully, Sarasota has action-packed activities, attractions and sightseeing that can fill the vacation calendar of even the most devoted traveler.

Start with the area's vibrant arts scene, anchored by the world-famous collection of paintings at the Ringling Museum of Art. After viewing the museum's large array of Rubens canvasses, you can stroll across the museum grounds to John Ringling's Ca D'Zan Mansion -- a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture -- or gaze at the memorabilia housed in the Ringling Circus Museum. And with a nationally recognized opera house, ballet company, symphony orchestra and multiple theaters located just a mile down the road, Ringling is merely the start of a Sarasota arts adventure.

You'll want to devote a day (and probably a few nights) to exploring downtown Sarasota's historic neighborhoods, including the quaint Towles Court art district, which is densely packed with brightly painted wooden homes filled with galleries, shops and restaurants. Main Street is a destination for locals or visitors seeking some of the best cuisine and shopping in Sarasota, along with live music and chic bars, all arranged into an area that begs to be strolled.

Head deeper into Sarasota and you'll find some of the best preserved natural lands in Florida, especially the gigantic Myakka River State Park, which offers hundreds of miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, cabin rentals, and airboat tours. Casual visitors can climb a wooden tower that extends above the tree canopy to see red-tailed hawks circling for prey, otters and foxes scurrying along wooded trails, or alligators sunning on the shore of Myakka River (from a safe distance, of course).

Of course, if you want to guarantee an encounter with tropical wildlife, you can head to Sarasota Jungle Gardens. The animal park will put you face-to-face with some of the amazing birds, reptiles and mammals that call Sarasota home.

Sarasota's mild climate has also made it into an international golf destination, with dozens of courses in the area designed by some of the biggest names in the sport. If you'd rather be a spectator than a participant, head to Ed Smith Stadium, the spring training headquarters of the Baltimore Orioles and home to a minor league franchise.

Things to do don't stop at the Sarasota city limits. Within a short drive are the scattered towns that make up the greater Sarasota area, each with its own character and style. Venice is the biggest little town in the area, with all the amenities and attractions of downtown Sarasota presented in a quieter setting. Osprey and Nokomis have a slow and sleepy vibe, while a short drive east to Myakka City will introduce you to the rural heritage that made Sarasota what it is today.

So sure, sit on the beach as much as you'd like. We understand. But if you want to pack a little more into your vacation, Sarasota and Her Islands will easily oblige.