Sarasota is a thriving city in Florida known for its abundance of cultural attractions, boasting plenty of museums and art galleries worth seeing, making it a must-visit place for explorers like me. Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy and The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art are just some of the unique museums to visit while you are in the city. Sarasota Jungle Gardens is great for families, with animal shows and a petting zoo that kids will surely love. If you are looking for a peaceful place to unwind, you can head to Lido Beach, which features picnic areas and a lovely lap pool. Seeking the best place to stay for your holiday in the city? While you can book an Airbnb vacation rental if you’re seeking some privacy, choose an accommodation closer to the shores for the best experience. Check out the top beach resorts in Sarasota, Florida, for awesome views and cozy accommodations.
Popular picks in Sarasota:
Nature lovers can explore and unwind in the beautiful 45-acre Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus.
Families with kids can spend a day in Urfer Family Park, featuring a play ground for kids, a boardwalk, a fitness trail, and more!
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 26, 2024.
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Beach life in Sarasota
Sarasota has several beaches and watersports to keep you entertained during your vacation. Beachcombers can head to Lido Key Beach, South Lido Key Beach, and North Lido Beach. Lido Key Public Beach is the prime public beach in the city where you can soak in the sun, stroll on the sand, or savor seafood delicacies by the shore. Some amenities available here are picnic tables, outdoor showers, and bathrooms. Moreover, it also has wheelchair-accessible services.
Seafood lovers can head to Lido Island Grill, Lido Beach Pavilion, which is popular for its lobster rolls and crispy calamari.
Beach resorts in Sarasota
1. Lido Beach Resort - Sarasota (from USD 371)
Boasting its own private beach area, Lido Beach Resort offers a private sanctuary for families and couples. It features spacious and cozy guest rooms which come with large plush beds, kitchenettes for easy meal preparation, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
As a traveler, I am always eager to learn new things that will add to my experiences, and the fact that this property can arrange for sunset sailing makes me more excited to visit here.
There are also flat-screen TVs in each unit to keep you entertained while indoors. With two swimming pools with shallow ends, guests of all ages are welcome to enjoy a refreshing swim while on the premises. You can also play ping-pong with your loved ones.
- Property highlights: The resort can arrange a sunset sailing experience to explore the Gulf of Mexico.
- Nearest beach: The beach is a short walk away from the property.
- Beach access: Private.
- Suggested rooms/units: The King Studio Suite in the Palm Tower lets you enjoy uninterrupted Gulf of Mexico views from the spacious balcony. Other features include a well-equipped kitchen and a comfortable queen-size bed.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "It is their private beach on Lido beach next to the public Lido beach. Water was clear and beach sand soft and not hot. They provide beach lounges for free and just $15 for an umbrella. Definitely go here! It was the best if you want to relax and simply enjoy the beach and shopping..." - by Google reviewer, Amanda Brooks
Lido Beach Resort
Address: 700 Benjamin Franklin Dr
3.9 km (2.5 mi) from Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus
2. Cirque St Armands Beachside (from USD 252)
This wonderful three-star resort boasts a gorgeous location right in front of the beach. It has a well-equipped fitness center on-site, so those who wish to stay active might find this property convenient.
The place also has an on-site outdoor swimming pool that is open all year round and has a shallow end, so you can allow your kids to splash around as well. Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property, so guests will have no problem updating their socials. Some of the activities you can enjoy here include cycling, diving, and snorkeling.
I feel this property is ideal for explorers like me as it places you closer to Sarasota’s busiest attractions. So, be sure to check St. Armands Circle, The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, and other attractions.
- Property highlights: Soak in the beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico while savoring the day's catch at the on-site seafood restaurant, Sea-Guini.
- Nearest beach: Lido Beach is just steps away from the property.
- Beach access: Private.
- Suggested rooms/units: The One Bedroom King Suite is spacious and offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and the public beach.
Cirque St. Armands Beachside
Address: 233 Ben Franklin Dr
4.14 km (2.6 mi) from Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus
Other beach accommodations in Sarasota, Florida
3. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota (from USD 687)
This luxurious five-star hotel is located on Ritz-Carlton Drive and offers stunning vistas of a private beach. It has two heated outdoor pools, both of which offer views of the open water. There are plenty of other activities you can enjoy within the premises, including tennis, movie nights, and happy hour.
The rooms are elegantly appointed and are equipped with a balcony, an en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries, a tea/coffee maker, and a large flat-screen TV. Enjoy rejuvenating treatments at the wellness center for a fee, as well.
Coffee lovers like me can begin their day with a fresh cup at Coffee Corner, located inside the on-site restaurant, Jack Dusty.
- Property highlights: The property's on-site spa uses innovative techniques and locally sourced ingredients to offer a relaxing experience after your beach escapades.
- Nearest beach: The property is a short walk away from the beach.
- Suggested rooms/units: Enjoy panoramic views of the Bay and the marina from the Ritz-Carlton Suite. It also boasts a luxurious marble bathroom with spa-like amenities.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "...The hotel has a private beach club, with buses running to it, situated on Lido Beach. The set up there is pleasant enough. The beach is one of the best anywhere as the sand is very fine..." - by Google reviewer, Paul Damus
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Address: 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr
1.48 km (1.0 mi) from Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus
4. Renovated home for four
This vacation rental is set right on a white sand beach so you can indulge in all kinds of water sports whenever you wish. You can also enjoy breathtaking gulf views from the property.
Inside, you will find an airy living room with comfortable seats and a large HDTV for entertainment. There is also a well-equipped kitchen where you can conveniently prepare delectable and healthy meals for the group. Guests can rest in the two bedrooms with two bathrooms, comfortably accommodating up to four people.
- Property highlights: You can spend a day on the beach fishing or renting kayaks and motor scooters from nearby shops!
- Nearest beach: The property is just 50 yards away from Lido Beach.
4.08 km (2.6 mi) from Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campusAccommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 90
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
5. Sunsetter on Sapphire Shores (from USD 151)
Set just 150 feet (492.1 meters) away from the gorgeous Indian Beach, Sunsetter on Sapphire Shores offers a 3-bedroom house that can sleep up to 6 guests. The accommodation comes with a fully furnished kitchen so guests can enjoy cooking delicious meals for the family.
The property has a nice garden where book lovers like me can spend their afternoons reading peacefully.
Free parking is available, allowing you to conveniently explore some of the nearby attractions, which include Marietta Museum Art & Whimsy, Siesta Key Public Beach, and Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Babysitting services are available for those who need assistance with their kids.
- Property highlights: While away your time with some exciting activities such as diving, fishing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and more.
- Nearest beach: The property is barely steps away from the beach.
- Beach access: Private.
Sunsetter on Sapphire Shores
3.97 km (2.5 mi) from Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus
6. Airy home with views (from USD 322)
Providing panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico, this bright and airy home boasts large windows that allow plenty of natural light inside. There are two TVs with cable channels to keep guests occupied while indoors. The rental also has one bedroom and two bathrooms with a tub and a shower, so you can easily prepare for a day’s adventure.
I am always eager to learn a new sport and this rental offers ample opportunities to learn water sports such as diving, snorkeling, and fishing nearby.
Lido Beach is within walking distance of the property, where you can have some fun with the family. There is a spacious living area, which is a great spot for hanging out at the end of the day as you enjoy some refreshing beverages.
- Property highlights: Beach lovers will find the beach towels and chairs useful. You can also try jet skiing, paddle boating, scuba diving, and other activities nearby to make your experience even more exciting.
- Nearest beach: The beach is a short walk away from the property.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "We were able to see the beach and hear the waves from our living room even though we were the third apartment from the front of the complex. Direct access to the beach was just a few steps making it easy to walk on the beach multiple times per day without having to make a planned trip to the beach..." - Jorge S.
Top guest reviews
Location:
great location and beach viewsRead more reviewsCleanliness:
the condo was clean and had what we needed
7. Lovely home with free Wi-Fi
This gorgeous and clean home is situated within walking distance of the beach and can easily sleep up to six people at a time. It comes with two bedrooms equipped with two king beds, and the living room has a sofa bed which can be used as extra sleeping space.
The bathroom has a toilet and a shower so you can quickly clean up after a busy day at the beach. Create your favorite recipes in the kitchen which has an oven, microwave, and other cooking appliances. Free Wi-Fi is provided for those who want to stay connected.
Sarasota, FL, US
8. Spacious rental with a full kitchen
This spacious and warm-toned rental situated in front of the beach is a wonderful oasis for six guests. It features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, along with a kitchen where guests can prepare some of their favorite recipes. There is also a heated pool on-site, perfect for those who wish to take a swim without walking to the sand.
The flat-screen TV in the living area ensures that all members of the group stay entertained. Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the premises so you can easily stay connected with your friends.
Sarasota, FL, US
9. Beautiful rental with modern interiors
This beautiful two-bedroom, two-bathroom rental boasts modern and vibrant interiors that are pleasing to the eye. During your stay, you can have uninterrupted access to a private beach area where you can enjoy spectacular views and numerous water-based activities.
Up to six guests can stay here, so it is ideal for small families looking to enjoy a peaceful holiday. There are two screened-in patios where you and your loved ones can hang out on a lovely afternoon while enjoying your favorite beverages. You can also access the swimming pool when you feel like taking a swim without having to leave the property.
Sarasota, Florida, United States
4.27 km (2.7 mi) from Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus
Top guest reviews
Host:
owner was great to work with highly recommend the propertyLocation:
short walk to beautiful beachbeach near home was a nice walk and worth every step as it wasn’t crowded at allCleanliness:
very clean and tidy and well equippedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
rarely does a listing make a house look smaller than it actually is plenty of room and super clean
10. Six-bedroom home for large groups
Suitable for large group gatherings, this lovely 6-bedroom home can comfortably take in up to 14 guests. While you are here, you can enjoy access to a private sandy beach. The luxurious Mediterranean property has its own outdoor pool, where you can enjoy refreshing laps on a sunny day.
The pool area also has cozy sun loungers from where you can enjoy awesome views of the ocean. Kayaks are available for rent, and there is a ping-pong table on-site to keep guests occupied.
Sarasota, Florida, United States
5.83 km (3.7 mi) from Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus
Top guest reviews
Host:
the staff was beyond helpfulwonderful responsive property manager for small requests that came upwe especially appreciated that the owner was so responsive and helpful throughout our staywe thank the owner for allowing us to use this fantastic houseowner very responsive pre stayLocation:
the location was great and had easy access to everythinggreat location great viewsthe house was wonderful and the location ideal for us; minutes from the airport ringling art museum and rcadthe house was great location was beautiful house was wonderful and hugo was so responsivevery nice home great location very cleanCleanliness:
property clean and extremely well maintainedvery easy check in with the property clean and readyclean location great pool fabulousit was spacious clean and it seems that many updates were done (compared to the pictures)pool was nice but never saw anyone come to cleanRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the pool and view from the backyard are greatthe kitchen was well equipped and cooking thanksgiving dinner was so enjoyable with the view of the baythe bicycles were fun and the ping pong table was used for tournamentsplenty of space and children enjoyed the poollots of room perfect for multiple families
Have a lovely time in Sarasota
If you are looking for a great vacation spot that offers bliss, Sarasota is a wonderful place to consider. For a marvelous water-based experience, check out the top beach resorts in Sarasota, Florida.
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