Sarasota Beach Hotels

If you could bottle whimsy and sprinkle it across a city like pixie dust, the exquisite result would be Sarasota. Stretching along the west coast of Florida, just south of the Tampa Bay, Sarasota will quench your cravings for childlike wonder. Revive your spirits with each afternoon at the Ringling Circus Museum and each evening on the shimmering sands of the keys. Between the slower pace of this Southern destination and the adventures that await on land and on sea, you’ll never be at a loss for activities or rest and relaxation. Read on to learn more about the former and book one of our lovely Sarasota beachfront hotels to take care of the latter…

Where are the best beaches to visit in Sarasota?

Sarasota is known for its pristine sand and stunning ocean views from the keys—and Siesta Key and Lido Key are among the favorites. The keys are small barrier islands that line the Sarasota Bay and they will certainly unlock the fun and natural beauty of your upcoming getaway. In fact, most of Travelocity’s Sarasota beach hotels line up along these glittering strands of sand: Siesta Key: Trailing on the south side of the city, this island is absolutely dreamy, and it boasts more than powder-soft sand. To the north, Crescent Beach is perfect for swimming and water sports and the dining options are plentiful. Stay steps from the sand at Hyatt Regency Sarasota. Turtle Beach, on the south end, is rocky and rugged—and begging to be photographed.

• Lido Key: As William Shakespeare might say, “Though she be but little, she is fierce.” Lido Key is fierce in the way that luxury shopping and craft cocktails are fierce—stylishly so. Visit this islet just north of Siesta for a mix of secluded beaches and waterfront shopping.
• Longboat Key: Stretching along Sarasota from downtown northward, Longboat is all about exclusivity and luxury. If you love the extravagance of private beaches and fine dining, stay at La Quinta Inn and head out to the beautiful island in the morning and enjoy the white sand beach all day.

What are some fun activities to do near the beach in Sarasota?

On the mainland, accessible by many bridges, the city brims with delightful experiences and stunning architecture. Across the bay from Longboat Key, you could easily squander a few days at The Ringling. Named after its founders, John and Mable Ringling—of Ringling Brothers fame—this gorgeous complex is home to the Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, the opulent Ca’ d’Zan Mansion, the Historic Asolo Theater, and peaceful Bayfront Gardens.

At Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, get to know thousands of sea creatures without even getting your hair wet. Located on the south side of Lido Key, this research and conservation center is both educational and exciting—perfect for delighting your inner child.

Finding fabulous Sarasota hotels on the beach with Travelocity is as easy as scooping up a shark’s tooth on Turtle Beach. Only one of those treasures can be passed around at show and tell, but when you book the best price with our price-matching guarantee, you’ll want to show it off.