Sarasota

Travel Guide

Sarasota
Sarasota
Sarasota
Sarasota
Sarasota

Famous white-sand beaches, a dynamic arts community and lush tropical beauty keep visitors coming back to Florida’s central west coast cultural capital.

Sarasota is a bayside city dotted with Mediterranean Revival architecture and bordered by award-winning beaches on three picturesque barrier islands. The city and its county are known as “Florida’s Cultural Coast” and are home to 10 theaters, 30 art galleries, an acclaimed symphony orchestra and prestigious ballet and opera companies.

Downtown Sarasota has plentiful cultural attractions. Enjoy classical operatic performances at the Sarasota Opera House. See a diverse selection of acts at the striking Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, the Historic Asolo Theater or the Asolo Repertory Theatre. Dine at one of the restaurants in the area and enjoy the local seafood. Try Florida spiny lobster, crab and shrimp and finish off with a citrusy slice of key lime pie.

The 1920s millionaire circus magnate, John Ringling, and his wife Mable contributed greatly to some of the city’s most intriguing cultural features. Visit the Ringling Estate, a sprawling bayside complex that contains the Ringling Museum of Art and the couple’s own lavish Ca’ d’Zan mansion.

Discover the natural beauty of the tropical Gulf of Florida coastline at the Marie Selby Botanical Gardensand look for an iconic pink flamingo at the Sarasota Jungle Gardens.

Lido Key and Siesta Key, barrier islands just west of downtown, provide some of the most breathtaking beaches in the United States. Siesta Key Public Beach, with its crystal-clear water and sand that looks and feels like powdered sugar, is a favorite for locals and visitors for swimming, playing volleyball or taking long walks as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico.

Sarasota is located on the central west coast of Florida, 60 miles (96 kilometers) south of Tampa. Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport is a short distance from downtown and is served by major airlines flying from the eastern United States and Canada. Sarasota has a tropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Warm temperatures and diverse cultural attractions make this city a fantastic destination any time of the year.

Where to stay in Sarasota

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South Sarasota

While visiting South Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like The Landings and Coconuts Family Entertainment Center.

South Sarasota
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Central Sarasota

4.5/5(21 area reviews)

Gardens, art galleries and theatres highlight some of the noteworthy features of Central Sarasota. Make a stop by Sarasota Opera House or Marina Jack while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Central Sarasota
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Palmer Ranch

While there might not be top attractions in Palmer Ranch, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club and Turtle Beach.

Palmer Ranch
Sarasota featuring a beach as well as children

Downtown Sarasota

While visiting Downtown Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like Sarasota Opera House and Regal Hollywood - Sarasota.

Downtown Sarasota
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Saint Armands Key

Beaches and restaurants are just a few things travellers like about Saint Armands Key. A stop by St. Armands Circle is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.

Saint Armands Key
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Gulf Gate Estates

4/5(2 area reviews)

Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Gulf Gate Estates. Make a stop by top sights like Gulf Gate Golf Club while you're exploring the area.

Gulf Gate Estates
Kompose Boutique Hotel

Kompose Boutique Hotel

3 out of 5
965 University Pkwy, Sarasota, FL
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Sarasota. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool ...
9/10 Wonderful! (4,204 reviews)
"I spent 2 nights here with my best friend for a birthday getaway and it exceeded our expectations. Every aspect of our stay was a 10 +! The front desk & housekeeping were all smiles at every interaction! Would most definitely recommend and I would stay there again if I am back in the area."

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Kompose Boutique Hotel
The Westin Sarasota

The Westin Sarasota

4 out of 5
100 Marina View Drive, Sarasota, FL
The price is €170 per night from 10 Aug to 11 Aug
€170
10 Aug - 11 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Sarasota. Enjoy a full-service spa, 2 restaurants, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,047 reviews)
"Yummy food comfortable bedding fridge staff wonderful house keeping"

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

The Westin Sarasota
Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota, FL

Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota, FL

3.5 out of 5
202 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL
The price is €164 per night from 10 Aug to 11 Aug
€164
10 Aug - 11 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Sarasota. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,551 reviews)
"I stay in this hotel frequently... Great location, views and amenities!"

Reviewed on 1 Aug 2025

Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota, FL
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Hibiscus Suites - Gateway to Siesta Key

Hibiscus Suites - Gateway to Siesta Key

2.5 out of 5
1735 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Sarasota. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,153 reviews)
"It was a perfect vacation in a"

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Hibiscus Suites - Gateway to Siesta Key
Tiny House Siesta

Tiny House Siesta

2 out of 5
6600 Avenue A, Sarasota, FL
Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and patios. Popular attractions Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach are located nearby.
8.2/10 Very Good! (305 reviews)
"It was a good experience. Good location."

Reviewed on 27 Jul 2025

Tiny House Siesta
Charming Studio Unit Across from Lido Key Beach

Charming Studio Unit Across from Lido Key Beach

Sarasota
Stay at this apartment in Sarasota. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Lido Beach and Siesta Key Beach are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (23 reviews)
"The apartment was cute & worked great for us. We walked to the beach each day & having the wagon, chairs, umbrella & cooler was awesome.This was our first time to Sarasota & will definitely be back."

Reviewed on 24 Jul 2025

Charming Studio Unit Across from Lido Key Beach
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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