Sarasota sits at the intersection of culture and coast — a city where world-class art museums, a thriving downtown food scene, and some of the Gulf Coast's most beautiful beaches exist within a fifteen-minute drive of each other. Where you stay shapes how you experience it all.
The hotel landscape here covers serious range. Longboat Key delivers the private-beach luxury resort experience, with the newly opened St. Regis setting a new standard for Gulf Coast hospitality. Downtown Sarasota puts you walking distance from Main Street's restaurants, the Ringling Museum, and a waterfront that rivals anything on Florida's west coast. The barrier islands — Lido Key and Siesta Key — offer beachside stays that feel like a different world from the mainland. And for every $600-a-night resort suite, there's a well-located mid-range option that puts the same beaches and restaurants within easy reach.
Whether you're planning a Sarasota vacation around the dining scene or a beach week on the barrier islands, here are the ten best places to stay.
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1. The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort
The newest and most anticipated hotel opening on Florida's Gulf Coast, the St. Regis on Longboat Key raised the bar for luxury hospitality in the Sarasota area. This 166-room resort sits on a pristine stretch of Gulf beach with three restaurants, a Remede Spa, three pools including an adults-only infinity pool, and the kind of polished, personal service that the St. Regis brand is known for — including their signature butler service.
The design blends coastal modernism with understated luxury. Rooms start large and get larger, all with private balconies facing the Gulf. The resort's three dining venues range from a refined Gulf seafood restaurant to a casual poolside grill. The Remede Spa offers treatments using local botanicals, and the fitness center and yoga lawn provide Gulf views that make exercise feel less like a chore.
- Location: Longboat Key (20 min from downtown Sarasota)
- Category: Ultra-Luxury
- Best for: Luxury seekers, couples, special occasions
- Key amenities: Private beach, Remede Spa, 3 pools, 3 restaurants, butler service, fitness center
- Price range: $$$$ ($600–$1,200+/night in season)
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2. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
The Ritz-Carlton has anchored Sarasota's luxury hotel scene since 2001, and a major renovation keeps it firmly at the top. Located at the edge of downtown overlooking Sarasota Bay, this 266-room property offers the rare combination of a walkable downtown location with resort-level amenities — including a private beach club on Lido Key accessible via complimentary shuttle.
The Members Beach Club is the highlight: a Gulf-front facility with cabanas, a pool, a restaurant, and that powdery white sand. Back at the hotel, the 18-hole golf course at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options round out an experience that justifies the price tag. The bayfront pool area was redesigned with a modern infinity edge that faces directly onto the water.
- Location: Downtown Sarasota waterfront
- Category: Luxury
- Best for: Golf enthusiasts, couples, culture-seekers who want resort amenities
- Key amenities: Private beach club (Lido Key), 18-hole golf, full spa, marina, 4 restaurants, bayfront pool
- Price range: $$$$ ($400–$800+/night in season)
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3. The Resort at Longboat Key Club
This sprawling 218-acre resort has been a Longboat Key institution for decades, and a multi-year renovation has brought every room and public space up to modern standards. With 45 holes of championship golf, a private beach, tennis and pickleball courts, a full-service spa, and six dining venues, it's the most complete resort experience in the Sarasota area.
What sets Longboat Key Club apart is the space. Where other resorts stack rooms on top of each other, this property spreads out across the island with a mix of hotel rooms and suite-style accommodations. The beach is wide and quiet — a genuine contrast to Siesta Key's crowds. Families especially love the kids' programs and the multiple pool options, while golfers come specifically for the Harbourside and Islandside courses.
- Location: Longboat Key (25 min from downtown Sarasota)
- Category: Luxury Resort
- Best for: Families, golf vacations, extended stays
- Key amenities: 45 holes of golf, private beach, spa, 6 restaurants, tennis/pickleball, kids' programs, kayaks
- Price range: $$$ – $$$$ ($350–$700/night in season)
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4. Zota Beach Resort
Zota occupies a sweet spot on Longboat Key — luxury-level design and amenities at prices below the St. Regis and Ritz-Carlton. The 187-room resort has a sleek, modern aesthetic with whitewashed concrete and natural wood that feels more Tulum than traditional Florida. The private beach, infinity pool, and Gulf-front Viento Kitchen + Bar deliver the resort experience without the resort price premium.
The rooms are contemporary and well-designed, all with balconies and Gulf or garden views. The beachside cabanas are complimentary for guests (first-come, first-served), and the watersport rentals make it easy to get on the water without leaving the property. Zota also has 2,700 square feet of event space that makes it popular for weddings — something to be aware of on weekends.
- Location: Longboat Key (15 min from downtown Sarasota)
- Category: Upscale Beach Resort
- Best for: Modern design lovers, couples, beach vacations on a relative budget
- Key amenities: Private beach, infinity pool, restaurant & bar, cabanas, water sports, fitness center
- Price range: $$$ ($250–$550/night in season)
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5. Hyatt Regency Sarasota
The Hyatt Regency is the best-located waterfront hotel in downtown Sarasota. Sitting directly on the bayfront with its own marina, it puts Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Marina Jack restaurant, and the St. Armands Circle shopping district within a short drive or shuttle ride. The property recently completed renovations that modernized the rooms and public spaces while keeping the bayfront pool and marina that made it a local landmark.
The free beach shuttle runs daily to Lido Key, solving the only real limitation of a downtown Sarasota hotel — no beach at your doorstep. The marina offers boat rentals and sunset cruises, and the rooftop fitness center has bay views that beat any gym membership. For business travelers and conference attendees, the meeting facilities are among the best in the area.
- Location: Downtown Sarasota bayfront
- Category: Upscale
- Best for: Downtown Sarasota exploration, business travelers, culture seekers
- Key amenities: Bayfront marina, pool, free beach shuttle, restaurant, fitness center, meeting space
- Price range: $$$ ($250–$500/night in season)
6. Lido Beach Resort
Lido Beach Resort holds the distinction of being the only resort directly on Lido Beach — and that location alone makes it one of the most sought-after stays in the Sarasota area. Step out the back door and you're on the sand. No shuttle, no drive, no hassle. The two pools (including one that's steps from the beach), tiki bar, and beachfront restaurant mean you never have to leave the property if you don't want to.
The rooms range from standard hotel rooms to two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, making it a strong choice for families or longer stays. The recent renovation updated rooms and common areas while keeping the laid-back, beach-resort character. St. Armands Circle is a five-minute drive for dining and shopping, and downtown Sarasota is ten minutes away.
- Location: Lido Key (10 min from downtown Sarasota)
- Category: Upscale Beachfront
- Best for: Beach lovers, families, couples wanting direct beach access
- Key amenities: Direct beach access, 2 pools, tiki bar, beachfront restaurant, kitchenette suites
- Price range: $$$ ($250–$550/night in season)
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7. The Westin Sarasota
The Westin occupies a modern high-rise on the Sarasota waterfront, and its rooftop pool with panoramic bay views is one of the best hotel amenities in the city. The rooms are clean and contemporary — the Heavenly Bed lives up to the name — and the location puts you within walking distance of Main Street restaurants, the Opera House, and the bayfront parks.
The full-service spa is a legitimate draw, not a hotel afterthought, and the two on-site restaurants handle breakfast through dinner. A complimentary shuttle runs to local beaches, and the concierge team is unusually helpful with restaurant reservations and activity planning. This is the best option for travelers who want an upscale downtown base with resort touches.
- Location: Downtown Sarasota waterfront
- Category: Upscale
- Best for: Downtown explorers, spa seekers, business travelers
- Key amenities: Rooftop pool, full spa, 2 restaurants, beach shuttle, fitness center
- Price range: $$$ ($200–$450/night in season)
8. Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
Art Ovation is the most interesting hotel in downtown Sarasota, and it's not close. This Marriott Autograph Collection property is built around the idea that a hotel should be a cultural experience — every room comes with art supplies, the lobby doubles as a gallery space, and the rooftop pool and bar area hosts live music and art events. It sounds gimmicky but the execution is genuine.
The rooms are well-designed with a modern art-influenced aesthetic, and the rooftop pool offers downtown skyline views. The on-site Tzeva restaurant serves Mediterranean-influenced cuisine, and the location on North Palm Avenue puts you steps from the Sarasota Opera, Florida Studio Theatre, and Main Street dining. This is where creative-minded travelers should stay.
- Location: Downtown Sarasota (arts district)
- Category: Upscale Boutique
- Best for: Art lovers, cultural travelers, couples, Marriott Bonvoy members
- Key amenities: Art studio for guests, rooftop pool & bar, restaurant, gallery space, live events
- Price range: $$$ ($200–$450/night in season)
9. voco Sarasota (formerly Hotel Indigo)
Recently rebranded from Hotel Indigo to voco (an IHG brand), this boutique hotel on the Boulevard of the Arts delivers a stylish downtown stay at more accessible prices than the big-name properties. The rooftop bar is the signature amenity — sunset cocktails overlooking the Sarasota skyline draw both guests and locals. Rooms are compact but well-designed with a contemporary Florida aesthetic.
The location is excellent for walkability. Burns Court Cinema, the Sarasota Farmers Market (on Saturdays), and a cluster of independent restaurants are all within a few blocks. Pet-friendly policies and a casual, unpretentious vibe make this a strong pick for younger travelers and couples who plan to spend more time exploring than sitting at the hotel.
- Location: Downtown Sarasota (Boulevard of the Arts)
- Category: Boutique
- Best for: Urban explorers, couples, budget-conscious design lovers, pet owners
- Key amenities: Rooftop bar, restaurant, pet-friendly, walkable downtown location
- Price range: $$ ($180–$350/night in season)
10. Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach
Sandcastle is the value play on Lido Key. Located just down the beach from Lido Beach Resort, it offers direct beach access and two pools at prices that typically run 30-40% lower than its neighbor. The rooms are comfortable if not luxurious — many have kitchenettes, which helps offset dining costs during longer stays.
The property doesn't have the polish of the higher-end resorts on this list, but what it lacks in luxury it makes up for in location and value. You're on the beach, five minutes from St. Armands Circle, and ten from downtown. For families and budget-minded travelers who plan to spend most of their time on the sand anyway, Sandcastle delivers exactly what you need.
- Location: Lido Key (10 min from downtown Sarasota)
- Category: Mid-Range Beachfront
- Best for: Budget-conscious beach lovers, families, longer stays
- Key amenities: Direct beach access, 2 pools, kitchenettes, near St. Armands Circle
- Price range: $$ ($150–$300/night in season)
Quick Comparison
| Hotel | Location | Category | Beach | Pool | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Regis Longboat Key | Longboat Key | Ultra-Luxury | Private | 3 | $$$$ |
| Ritz-Carlton Sarasota | Downtown | Luxury | Beach Club | Yes | $$$$ |
| Longboat Key Club | Longboat Key | Luxury Resort | Private | Multiple | $$$ – $$$$ |
| Zota Beach Resort | Longboat Key | Upscale | Private | Infinity | $$$ |
| Hyatt Regency | Downtown | Upscale | Shuttle | Yes | $$$ |
| Lido Beach Resort | Lido Key | Upscale | Direct | 2 | $$$ |
| Westin Sarasota | Downtown | Upscale | Shuttle | Rooftop | $$$ |
| Art Ovation | Downtown | Boutique | No | Rooftop | $$$ |
| voco Sarasota | Downtown | Boutique | No | No | $$ |
| Sandcastle Resort | Lido Key | Mid-Range | Direct | 2 | $$ |
Where to Stay in Sarasota: Neighborhood Guide
Longboat Key
Best for: Luxury beach vacation, privacy, golf. The barrier island north of Lido Key offers the most exclusive resort experiences. You'll need a car for dining and activities off-island, but the beaches are quiet and pristine.
Downtown Sarasota
Best for: Culture, dining, walkability. Main Street and the arts district offer the most restaurant and nightlife options. Beach shuttles solve the distance-to-sand issue. The Ringling Museum, opera, and theater are all close.
Lido Key
Best for: Beach access with proximity to everything. You're on the sand but still five minutes from St. Armands Circle and ten from downtown. The best of both worlds for most visitors.
Siesta Key
Best for: Famous beach, casual village vibe. Siesta Beach consistently ranks among America's best. The village has restaurants and shops, but it's the most separated from downtown Sarasota.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hotel in Sarasota Florida?
The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is currently the most luxurious hotel in the Sarasota area, with Gulf-front rooms, butler service, and a world-class spa. For a downtown option, the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota offers luxury amenities including a private beach club on Lido Key. Budget-conscious travelers should consider Zota Beach Resort on Longboat Key, which offers modern design and private beach access at lower prices.
Where should I stay in Sarasota for the beach?
For direct beach access, Lido Beach Resort and Sandcastle Resort on Lido Key put you steps from the sand. On Longboat Key, the St. Regis, Zota Beach Resort, and Longboat Key Club all have private beaches. Downtown hotels like the Ritz-Carlton, Hyatt Regency, and Westin offer complimentary beach shuttles to Lido Key.
Is it better to stay downtown Sarasota or on the beach?
Downtown Sarasota is best for travelers who prioritize dining, nightlife, arts, and walkability — restaurants and cultural venues are within walking distance. Beach stays on Longboat Key or Lido Key are ideal for relaxation-focused vacations. Lido Key offers the best compromise: beach access plus a five-minute drive to St. Armands Circle and ten minutes to downtown.
What is the best area to stay in Sarasota for families?
The Resort at Longboat Key Club is the top family pick with its kids' programs, multiple pools, and expansive grounds. Lido Beach Resort offers suite-style accommodations with kitchens, and its direct beach access eliminates the logistics of getting kids to the sand. Sandcastle Resort is the most budget-friendly family-suitable beachfront option.
How far are Sarasota hotels from Siesta Key Beach?
From downtown Sarasota hotels, Siesta Key Beach is about 20-25 minutes by car. From Lido Key hotels, it's about 25-30 minutes. Longboat Key resorts are 35-40 minutes from Siesta Key. If Siesta Beach is your primary destination, consider a vacation rental on Siesta Key itself.
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