Forget Miami Beach or Tampa. If you want to experience an unforgettable seaside vacation, then plan a trip to Sarasota, Florida. The city is on the southwestern coast of the United States, between Tampa Bay Area and Fort Myers. With nearly 40 mi (64.3 km) of shoreline, the region offers sandy beaches, high-end resorts, waterfront vacation rentals, and environmental amenities along the Gulf of Mexico. There are plenty of things to do and places to visit, including science museums, shopping malls, botanical gardens, and seafood restaurants. Whether you want to refresh at one of the best beach destinations around or enjoy the laid-back Gulf vibe, you’re on your way to getting an experience to remember. Check out our list of the best beachfront hotels and resorts in and near Sarasota, Florida.
Famous attractions:
Nathan Benderson Park is a picturesque location for outdoor activities such as non-motorized boating, fishing, and birdwatching. Picnic shelters, a fishing pier, and a bike path make it ideal for family vacations. The park welcomes dogs and has a playground for children to enjoy.
The Big Cat Habitat Conservation and Education Center is located only minutes from downtown Sarasota, spans over 20 acres (8.09 hectares), and is home to more than 350 animals representing over 60 species. Visitors may engage in animal encounters, interact with wildlife, and feed some of the animals. You may also participate in interesting activities like Yoga with Tigers and Lemur Yoga. It’s a must-see for animal lovers looking for a fun, educational adventure.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and location with easy access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on November 12, 2024.
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Explore the best recommendations:
1. Lido Beach Resort (from USD 169)
Best for: Families with kids, group stays, couples
Lido Beach Resort is a beachfront property right on Lido Key. If you enjoy more private moments, it offers 92 m (301 ft) of sands to put on the beach umbrella and relax while watching the sunset. It’s also one of Sarasota hotels with pools. It has an adults-only pool as well as a family pool. There are also three hot tubs and a fitness center.
Stop by for a drink at Beachside Tiki Bar and explore the surroundings through the free shuttle services to St. Armands Circle.
Lido Beach Resort - Sarasota
Address: 700 Ben Franklin Drive
2.64 km (1.7 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
2. Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach (from USD 111)
Best for: Couples, group stays
If you like trying something new, Lido Beach is the place for you. Enjoy a day on the kid-friendly beach, grab a bite to eat, go shopping, stroll around art galleries, and relax at Sandcastle Resort.
Set on a 183-m (600-ft) private beach and within walking distance to St. Armands Circle (or through transfer service), this beach resort offers heated pools, a gym, and a volleyball court. If you want to get a nice tan and enjoy some beach games, Lido Key Beach is just 0.6 km (0.3 mi) from this hotel.
Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach
Address: 1540 Ben Franklin Drive
3.33 km (2.1 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
3. Cirque St Armands Beachside
Best for: Group stays, families with kids, couples
One of the best Sarasota hotels on the beach, Cirque St Armands Beachside is just across the street from the white sands of Lido Beach and within walking distance to St. Armands Circle. It’s a beachfront property that offers a rooftop restaurant for breakfast and dinner with ocean views. Between one meal and another, grab poolside cocktails at Kokonuts Lounge and Tiki Bar and enjoy them from the sun loungers. Also, enjoy the stunning views around while taking a dip in the outdoor pool. Before or after swimming, take some time to exercise in the modern fitness center on the premises.
The property is set 10 km (6.21 mi) from The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and 14 km (8.70 mi) from Sarasota International Convention Center.
Cirque St Armands Beachside
Address: 233 Benjamin Franklin Drive
2.12 km (1.4 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Accommodations near the beach in and near Sarasota
Though these options don’t front the beach, they’re situated close enough to the sands for a fun seaside vacation, so check them out!
4. The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota (from USD 623)
Best for: Luxury travelers, couples, families with kids
Life on the beach may not be part of your daily routine, but it can be your company during your vacation in Sarasota. Overlooking Sarasota Bay, The Ritz-Carlton is a luxurious property with the amenities of tropical beach resorts, including a private beach access, an outdoor pool, and a spa lounge. All rooms in this Sarasota, Florida, oceanfront hotel are spacious and feature a marble-trimmed bathroom and a private balcony with views of the bay or the city.
While staying in the resort, you get to enjoy the exclusive Members Beach Club which offers a heated swimming pool and a hot tub. If you want to have fun in the sun, the white-sand beach of Lido Key is only 2.8 mi (4.5 km) away from the property.
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Address: 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive
2.88 km (1.8 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
5. The Westin Sarasota (from USD 233)
Best for: Couples, families with kids, pet parents, watersports enthusiasts
Nestled in central Sarasota, The Westin is in the heart of Sarasota and close to Bayfront Park. This Sarasota hotel with beach access boasts clean and lovely rooms with a flat-screen TV as well as a pool and spa center. It’s right on the way to Lido Key Beach, just a short drive of 10 minutes or 3.7 mi (5.9 km).
To get there, you can ask for the Lido Beach shuttle or use the free bicycles available. Since this area is popular for snorkeling, you can also use snorkeling masks and fins for your beach time. If you enjoy kayaking, there is a special discount for guests.
The Westin Sarasota
Address: 100 Marina View Drive
2.93 km (1.9 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
6. voco Sarasota, an IHG Hotel (from USD 216)
Tasty breakfast and good restaurant options, though some experiences were inconsistent.
Reasonable pricing with included parking and shuttle service.
Conveniently located near downtown Sarasota, beaches, and St. Armand’s Circle.
Complimentary beach towels, umbrellas, and shuttle service within a 3-mile radius.
Best for: Couples, group stays, families
Just 6 km (3.7 mi) away from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, voco Sarasota, an IHG Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Sarasota if you need a convenient way to access the nearest airport. It offers free airport transfer services to and from the property. The hotel’s on-site restaurant serves modern American cuisine complemented by a bar menu. One of the hotels with pools, this property also boasts a gym and an outdoor hot tub. Those who need fax and photocopying services can go to the 24-hour business center.
Finally, the hotel is also close to several notable attractions, such as Art Center Sarasota, the Sarasota County Visitor Information Center and History Museum, and Bay Isles Shopping Center.
voco Sarasota, an IHG Hotel This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 1223 Boulevard of the Arts
3.27 km (2.1 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
7. Sunsetter on Sapphire Shores (from USD 151)
Best for: Nature lovers, group stays, families with kids
Sunsetter on Sapphire Shores is a home overlooking Sarasota Bay. It is a convenient choice for people who want to visit Siesta Key Public Beach that is only 6.4 mi (10.3 km) away. Other popular destinations near the property also include Longboat Key Beach and South Lido Beach.
It offers lots of property amenities such as free parking, a flat-screen TV, a sandcastle-shaped playground for kids, and many more. At Sunsetter, you have quick access to a wide range of beach activities such as snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, to name a few.
Sunsetter on Sapphire Shores
3.72 km (2.4 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
8. Casa Limonada Boutique Motel
Homemade lemonade and cake, well-stocked kitchen facilities, and nearby dining options.
Reasonable rates for spacious, clean rooms with well-equipped kitchen facilities and beach gear provided.
Exceptional location right across the street from the beach and a short walk to St. Armands Circle's shops and restaurants.
Beach cart with chairs, umbrella, and mat provided. Well-maintained rooms with streaming services, beach gear, and complimentary dessert and lemonade.
Best for: Couples, group stays, senior citizens, families
Casa Limonada Boutique Motel is only 200 m (256 ft) away from Lido Key Beach, which is great for watersports and 3.3 mi (5.4 km) from Siesta Key Public Beach. Whenever you want to have fun before or after going to the beach, you can play table tennis on site. While in your room, get some fresh air on the balcony or prepare your cup of joe using the coffee machine.
When you’re not enjoying the motel’s amazing facilities, you can also enjoy a lazy afternoon on the beautiful beach.
Casa Limonada Boutique Motel
Address: 138 Garfield Drive
2.53 km (1.6 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
9. Rustic house for family gatherings (from USD 597)
Best for: Families with kids and infants, pet parents, group trips, outdoor enthusiasts
If you’re looking for an entire house on the beach, this rental could be your home away from home. Rustic House is only three blocks away from St. Armands Circle and within walking distance to the beach from your backyard. It’s the perfect location for your beach getaway, feeling the sea breeze and leaving all the worries behind.
Beach essentials are available such as chairs, towels, blankets, an umbrella, and snorkeling gear. This beach paradise keeps the rustic appeal yet also brings modern conveniences, including wifi and laundry facilities, to make your stay comfortable. Parking for guests is free.
Top guest reviews
Host:
if any issues came up the host was very responsiveRead more reviewsLocation:
great location perfect to family scape
10. Twin Palms at Siesta
Best for: Families with kids and infants, couples
Twin Palms at Siesta is a boutique hotel with apartment-style accommodations next to the beach. You’ll feel at home with all of the amenities this hotel has. Each unit is outfitted with a kitchenette for easy food preparation and the property has a terrace with outdoor furniture so you can unwind while relishing the sea breeze.
To make spending a day at the shore easy, the hotel provides guests with chairs, wagons, and coolers to use. When you get back to the hotel, you can enjoy lounging poolside and even cook a meal outdoors using the barbecue.
Twin Palms at Siesta
Address: 1115 Point of Rocks Rd
10.6 km (6.6 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
11. Tropical Beach Resorts
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, couples, group trips
Tropical Beach Resorts is an aparthotel where you can completely unwind during your vacation. You’ll definitely want to keep cool in the tropical heat, and you will have your choice of swimming at one of the resort’s two outdoor pools or at the private white sand beach, which is a short walk away. The resort also provides loungers, umbrellas, and towels for your outing at the beach.
If you would like to explore the surrounding area, the resort offers bicycle rentals so you can cruise around with ease.
Tropical Beach Resorts
Address: 6717 Sara Sea Circle
10.4 km (6.5 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
12. Casey Key Resort - Gulf Shores (from USD 254)
Best for: Group trips, pet parents, couples
Casey Key Resort - Gulf Shores offers apartment-style accommodations right along the water. Each unit features a kitchen and dining area. The resort has a picnic area and barbecue grill, so you can enjoy a meal outdoors.
Book the Beach Front Two Bedroom House to enjoy a spectacular view of the beach from the comfort of your living area. The resort also has specified pet-friendly units. Dogs weighing up to 30 pounds (13.61 kilograms) can join you during your stay for an additional 50 USD nightly fee.
Casey Key Resort - Gulf Shores
Address: 317 Casey Key Rd
25.1 km (15.6 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
13. The Capri at Siesta
Best for: Group trips, outdoor enthusiasts
A charming boutique resort with only 10 rooms, The Capri at Siesta offers guests an intimate and relaxing vacation experience. You’ll just be about 200 steps away from the beach where you can spend the day soaking up the sun. The property has beach equipment for rent so you’ll have a fun day at the shore.
When you get back to the resort, you can relax in the tranquil enclosed courtyard area which features lush tropical landscaping. There is also ample outdoor seating and a barbecue grill so that you can enjoy a meal al fresco.
The Capri at Siesta
Address: 6782 SaraSea Circle
10.48 km (6.6 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
14. The Ringling Beach House
Best for: Group trips, couples, families, people with disabilities
The Ringling Beach House is a small resort that has just 12 apartments, making it the ideal accommodation for those who want a peaceful getaway. The property can accommodate a variety of group sizes. Whether you’re traveling with just one other person or a big group of up to 12, you can find the perfect unit to suit your needs.
You’ll be a quick walk away from the beach, and the resort provides beach umbrellas, towels, and chairs to make it easy and convenient for you. Each apartment features a kitchen, so you can store food or prepare a quick snack to bring to the beach.
The Ringling Beach House
Address: 523 Beach Road
7.24 km (4.5 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
15. Gulf Beach Resort Motel (from USD 105)
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts
Gulf Beach Resort Motel might be your retreat while enjoying sunny days in Sarasota. Siesta Key Public Beach requires a short drive as it is located 3.2 mi (5.2 km) from the property. If you’re a beach lover, some rooms offer sea views that you can appreciate with a cup of coffee every morning.
Besides the ocean and the white sand, take some time to enjoy the outdoor swimming pool offered by this beach motel.
Gulf Beach Resort Motel
Address: 930 Ben Franklin Drive
2.76 km (1.8 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
16. Rental in the heart of Sarasota
Best for: Group stays, outdoor enthusiasts
Lido Key offers one of the best locations for a beach vacation in Sarasota. Walkable locations from the property include St. Armands Circle and areas that offer kayak tours. The emerald-green water and white sand of Lido Key Beach are only 100 steps away. From your balcony, enjoy sunset and beach views while sipping hot chocolate.
This rental has beach items provided, including beach chairs, beach towels, and blankets to make things a little easier for you. Besides, you will find a public pool and a snack pavilion with food, beer, and wine.
Sarasota, Florida, United States
2.44 km (1.6 mi) from Mote Marine Laboratory & AquariumSuperhost
Accommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
adam was a great hostadam was a great hostadam is a great hostadam was extremely responsive with any questionsadam was a great host—easy check and fast to reply to any questionsLocation:
nice location good safe neighborhood easy walking distance to beachgreat location with short walk to beach and 8 minloved the close access to beachabsolute perfect locationperfect location and really nice spaceCleanliness:
clean and modern spacevery clean private and quite placesuper cleanthe condo was clean and well maintainedcondo was very clean and updatedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the king bed was very comfortable and pullout couch was perfect for our sonwe needed help with the air conditioning and he got it taken care of right awaythe bathroom had a fantastic shower and great amenitiesthat couch and bed are super comfy some of the best on airbnb great placethe king-sized bed was very comfortable and the condo was blissfully quiet at night
Discover Florida's hidden pearl
Sarasota is the pearl of the Sunshine State with white-sand beaches, sunny weather, and a variety of watersports opportunities. It also provides plenty of beach events and amazing accommodation options. Start your days by the sea or spend your afternoons in the shopping districts. Leave any worries behind while relaxing in one of the best beachfront hotels in Sarasota, Florida.
Frequently asked questions about beachfront hotels in Sarasota, Florida
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