Surfing West Coast Florida

So I'm traveling to Sarasota FL in three weeks and was wondering if there are any surf spots at this time of year around there. My buddy whos family lives there said there is no surf at their beach, and I've also heard the gulf coast is slim pickins when it comes to waves. So ya, pretty negative with regards to surfing there, but I was wondering if anyone might know of some decent spots close to sarasota, like within an hour drive close. Thanks!