Looking for a unique way to enjoy Sarasota during the holiday season? The Holly Jolly Hunt is an app-based scavenger hunt designed to bring out your inner explorer while celebrating the festive spirit. This activity offers a lively mix of traditional holiday items and quirky surprises that make the city feel even more magical during Christmas time.
Whether you’re new to Sarasota or a seasoned local, this experience promises laughter, friendly competition, and lasting memories.
Two things we really like about this experience are its flexibility and the way it encourages you to see Sarasota in a new light. Since you can play anywhere of your choosing, you’re free to explore parks, downtown streets, or any neighborhood that catches your eye. Plus, the fun challenges and photo scoring make it more engaging than just a walk in the park.
One potential consideration? The activity requires a smartphone, so you’ll need to ensure your device is charged and ready.
This scavenger hunt is well-suited for families, groups of friends, or coworkers looking for a holiday activity that’s light-hearted and interactive.
This experience shines brightest for those who love interactive outdoor activities with a festive twist. If you enjoy exploring at your own pace and competing in friendly challenges, Holly Jolly Hunt is a perfect fit. It’s especially ideal for groups wanting a memorable, laughter-filled outing that captures Sarasota’s holiday charm without the hefty price tag.
Key Points
- Flexible Location: Play anywhere in Sarasota to tailor your experience.
- Affordable Price: At just $20 per group, it offers excellent value for a fun activity.
- Inclusive and Private: Only your group participates, making it a personalized holiday adventure.
- Technology-Driven Fun: Uses a mobile app to guide the hunt and score points.
- All-Inclusive Fee: Includes all activities, fees, and access to a remote guide via chat.
- Ideal for Various Groups: Suitable for families, friends, co-workers, or anyone looking for a joyful holiday challenge.
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Discovering Sarasota with a Holiday Twist
The Holly Jolly Hunt takes you on a citywide adventure, blending the joy of holiday traditions with the freedom of exploring Sarasota on your own terms. The tour starts at the charming Selby Five Points Park and ends back at the same spot, making it easy to coordinate and convenient for most travelers. The activity runs from late November through the end of December, aligning perfectly with the Christmas season.
A key point in understanding this experience is its app-based format, which means you’ll be navigating Sarasota with your smartphone, hunting for holiday-related items and completing challenges. The app provides real-time scoring, a leaderboard, and a chat feature for support from a remote guide. This element adds a modern twist to the traditional scavenger hunt, giving it a sense of friendly competition and instant feedback. Plus, the ability to perform fun challenges that lead to laughter makes the experience memorable beyond just the photos.
Playing at your own pace is a major advantage here. With a duration of approximately one hour, it’s perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing or holiday activities. The price of $20 per group is quite reasonable, especially considering that it covers all activities and taxes. For up to 10 people, it’s a cost-effective way to spend quality time together in Sarasota, whether with family, friends, or colleagues.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sarasota.
What to Expect During the Holly Jolly Hunt
Once you meet at the designated starting point in Sarasota’s Selby Five Points Park, you’ll receive instructions via the app, which guides you through different holiday-themed challenges. This might include finding a traditional Christmas ornament or a less obvious holiday symbol, then taking a photo through the app to earn points. The challenges are designed to be accessible and fun, encouraging creativity and humor.
As you explore Sarasota—perhaps wandering down Main Street, passing by local shops decorated with festive lights, or strolling through parks—you’ll be on the lookout for items on your scavenger list. Some items are traditional, like Christmas trees or wreaths, but others may be more playful, such as finding a holiday-themed statue or capturing a photo with a holiday-themed street performer.
The photo-taking element adds a visual aspect that fuels friendly competition. The real-time leaderboard displays your team’s progress compared to others, motivating you to press on and complete more challenges. When you finish, you’ll return to the starting point, where the activity concludes. The entire experience is designed to be lively, light-hearted, and inclusive.
The Remote Guide and Support Features

One of the standout features is the chat support from a remote guide, included in the fee. This means help is just a message away if you encounter any issues or need hints. In the reviews, participants have appreciated this added layer of support, noting it keeps the activity smooth and enjoyable.
This digital support is especially valuable since the whole experience hinges on the app functioning properly. Given that most travelers are comfortable with smartphones, this modern twist makes the hunt accessible and easy to navigate. Remember, though, that use of your own smartphone is not included, so ensuring your device is charged is a good idea.
The Value of the Holly Jolly Hunt
Compared to other Sarasota activities like kayak tours or guided walks, the Holly Jolly Hunt offers a cost-effective, flexible, and interactive option. For $20, you get access to all scavenger hunt activities, the remote guide chat, and the opportunity to create your own holiday adventure. It’s a particularly good choice for groups wanting a low-stress, fun activity that doesn’t require transportation or extensive planning.
While some may wish for a more structured itinerary or guided tour, the flexibility of choosing your route and pace can be a real perk. It allows for spontaneous discoveries, such as stumbling upon a charming shop or holiday display you hadn’t planned to see.
Who Will Love This Experience?
Ultimately, the Holly Jolly Hunt is best suited for families, groups of friends, or coworkers looking for a light-hearted, interactive holiday activity. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition combined with exploring the local scenery. If you’re a traveler who appreciates independent activities with a touch of technology, this scavenger hunt will keep you entertained and inspired.
It’s also ideal for anyone on a budget, considering the reasonable price and inclusive nature. Since it’s accessible near public transportation, getting to the starting point is straightforward, making it an easy add-on to your Sarasota holiday plans.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
For just $20 per group, the Holly Jolly Hunt in Sarasota offers a charming, engaging way to experience the city during the holiday season. Its app-based format encourages exploration, creativity, and laughter, making it a memorable part of your Sarasota visit.
The activity’s flexibility and inclusivity mean it can accommodate different group sizes and interests, whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or colleagues. The remote guide support adds peace of mind, ensuring a smooth experience even if you’re new to scavenger hunts.
While it’s not an all-day event, the one-hour duration is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule. It’s a cost-effective way to add some holiday cheer and make the most of Sarasota’s festive atmosphere. If you love outdoor activities that combine exploration and fun, this scavenger hunt could be the highlight of your holiday trip.
Celebrate with a Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Sarasota with Holly Jolly Hunt
FAQ
What is the starting point for the Holly Jolly Hunt?
The activity begins at Selby Five Points Park, located at 1 Central Ave in Sarasota.
How long does the scavenger hunt take?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but fun activity for any holiday schedule.
Can I play anywhere in Sarasota?
Yes, you can choose your own route within Sarasota to explore and find holiday items, giving you flexibility and personalization.
What is included in the price?
The $20 fee covers all scavenger hunt activities, taxes, fees, and access to a remote guide via chat.
Do I need to use my own smartphone?
Yes, the activity requires you to use your own smartphone to participate and take photos through the app.
Is this activity suitable for children or all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s designed to be fun and accessible for a broad age range, making it family-friendly.
Are there any restrictions on accessibility?
Service animals are allowed, and the activity is near public transportation, making it accessible for many travelers.
What kind of challenges will I face?
Challenges involve finding holiday-related items, taking photos, and completing fun, holiday-themed tasks.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less notice may result in no refund.
Is this a private experience?
Yes, only your group participates, providing an exclusive and personalized holiday adventure.
In the end, the Holly Jolly Hunt in Sarasota offers a playful, inclusive way to enjoy the holiday season. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or colleagues, it’s a simple yet delightful activity that captures the spirit of giving, sharing, and exploring—perfect for creating memorable holiday moments.




















