The Best Hotels to Book in Sarasota, Florida, for Every Traveler

The towering Ritz-Carlton is one of the best places to stay in Sarasota
The towering Ritz-Carlton is one of the best places to stay in Sarasota | © Jeffrey Isaac Greenberg 19+ / Alamy Stock Photo
Nick Dauk

Sitting on the Gulf of Mexico, the hotels in this fun-loving coastal Florida city artfully tread the line between quirky boutique stays and big-name brands.

Roll up, roll up to the former home of John Ringling’s traveling circus (and modern-day fairground of the arts), Sarasota. The 19th-century master of ceremonies may have long since tripped out of town, but take your cues from his idea to use this beach-trimmed city as your winter base. Relocate the whole troupe (or stage a daredevil solo act) and find an ovation-worthy address on the sheltered side of the Sunshine State with these top places to stay in Sarasota, bookable with Culture Trip.

1. Westin Sarasota

Hotel

Modern room with two beds, pale green walls, patterned carpet, abstract art and floor-to-ceiling windows at the Westin Sarasota
Courtesy of the Westin Sarasota / Expedia

When you’re pampering your partner at a romantic hotel in Sarasota, the Westin specializes in racing hearts and butterflies in stomachs. No need to leave the cozy bedding in your suite, since you can schedule an in-room couple’s massage and gaze at Sarasota through floor-to-ceiling windows. While you’re at it, order a romantic dinner and dessert to your room, or head to the Roof Bar and Eats to watch the sunset as you whisper sweet nothings while sipping sangria poolside.

2. Hyatt Regency Sarasota

Hotel

A twin double room overlooking a lawn and resort in Sarasota.
Courtesy of Hyatt Regency Sarasota / Expedia

A wiggly, curvaceous pool on the edge of a private yacht-studded marina and bright pops of neon art elevate this Hyatt from what could be a buttoned-up business lodging to one of the best places to stay in Sarasota. Sink a few tropical cocktails at the poolside Hurricane Hut, maybe with a side of fish tacos or a cobb salad, then let the concierge set you up with a paddleboarding, fishing, boating or beach outing.

3. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Hotel, Luxury

Luxury bedroom in neutral tones with plush beige carpet and sliding glass doors to balcony at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota / Expedia

For the traveler who prefers the finer things, the Ritz-Carlton is an obvious choice. Luxurious suites at this five-star hotel in Sarasota with soaking tubs, private bay-view balconies and sleek modern furnishings await. Waterfront fine dining serves up a tasty fusion of coastal sophistication with local flair, while the spa’s saunas and massages will revitalize you. Exclusive access for guests to the Beach Club on Lido Key offers hours of clear blue skies and crystalline waters.

4. Art Ovation Hotel

Hotel

Bright king room in neutral tones with sofa, colorful abstract art triptych and patterned carpet at Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
Courtesy of Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection / Expedia

Creators take note: Art Ovation Hotel was designed with your creative spirit in mind. Floor-to-ceiling windows let you marvel at the world from this hotel in Sarasota, but distraction can be instantly removed with blackout drapes. Jump into a cozy bathrobe and grab the in-room sketch pad to capture your inspiration when it strikes. Does your muse insist you make music? The ukulele in your suite is tuned and ready to play. With so much to do in your room, make a note to venture out and visit the art exhibitions throughout the hotel.

5. The Sarasota Modern

Boutique Hotel

Chic and bright guest room in neutral hues with two beds, long wood desk and sliding glass doors to balcony at the Sarasota Modern
Courtesy of the Sarasota Modern, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel / Expedia

If you feel like authenticity and individuality are hard to come by these days, the Sarasota Modern will prove you wrong. Modernist-style rooms with clawfoot tubs are perfectly unpretentious at this luxury hotel in Sarasota. A pool deck with a hot tub and plunge pool are serene without seeming superficial. Whatever speaks to you – be it art, sport or food – the staff will help you secure enriching experiences around Sarasota that are unforgettable.

6. Casa Limonada Boutique Motel

Boutique Hotel, Motel

A bright bedroom with framed art in a hotel suite at the Casa Limonada Boutique Motel with the living room seen through an open door
Courtesy of Casa Limonada Boutique Motel / Expedia

Wellness warriors and fit families are welcomed with open arms to the independently owned Casa Limonada Boutique Motel. Private Brazilian jiu jitsu lessons are available, though you can also sign up for a standard yoga class, burn calories playing golf or explore downtown Sarasota via a bike rental. Alternatively, get your exercise on the water with scuba diving, windsurfing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. You and your crew will be so exhausted by the end of the day that you’ll be thankful you can prepare healthy meals in your in-suite kitchen.

7. The Resort at Longboat Key Club

Resort, Hotel

Stylish king room in white and blue with pale wood furniture, striped carpet and balcony with Gulf views at Resort at Longboat Key Club
Courtesy of the Resort at Longboat Key Club / Expedia

Travelers who love to stay busy can easily fill their schedules at the Resort at Longboat Key Club. When you’re not hanging out on the beach or eating your way through six exceptional restaurants, you’ll be taking advantage of luxurious amenities including a state-of-the-art fitness center, a salon and spa, 45 holes of golf, 20 tennis courts and exciting events on and off the water. Still looking for more? They have the largest resort marina on the coast and will gladly let you dock your yacht during your stay.

8. Lido Beach Resort

Resort

King room at Lido Beach Resort in blue and white hues with blue chair and floor-to-ceiling windows with beach and Gulf views
Courtesy of Lido Beach Resort / Expedia

For sun, sea and sand seekers tis beach hotel in Sarasota was built for lazy days spent on the shore. Two Gulf-front swimming pools are ideal for when the private white sand beach heats up in the afternoon. Outdoor games like bean bag toss and ping pong offer fun for your entire family or group of friends. Interested in nothing but R&R? Spend the afternoon dozing on your private waterfront balcony.

9. Hotel Indigo Sarasota

Hotel

Spacious, cheerful room with two large beds, white furniture, bamboo plant wall mural, desk and green curtains at Hotel Indigo Sarasota
Courtesy of Hotel Indigo Sarasota / Expedia

For the art lover who wants to embrace the Downtown Arts District, Hotel Indigo Sarasota is heaven. Murals adorn the hallways and rooms, immersing you in the city’s artful soul. Take advantage of their complimentary shuttle service to visit galleries around town – it’s as easy as a paint-by-number picture. As you watch the sunset from your comfy king-sized bed, you just may be inspired to create your own masterpiece in the morning.

On a budget? Check out our guide to the best cheap hotels in Sarasota, bookable on Culture Trip.

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