| check-in time: 2:00 pmcheck-out time: 11:00 am. most units have whirlpool tubs. this laid-back resort is 1 block from the beach and a 34-minute drive from terra ceia preserve state park. private 1- and 2-bedroom townhouses offer full kitchens. amenities include a heated outdoor pool, a spa and an on-site restaurant/bar. studios add kitchenettes. daily continental breakfast is complimentary, as are beach towels. relaxed rooms offer screened-in verandas (some with gulf views), tile floors and granite countertops, plus tvs and free wi-fi
Tampa International Airport 1 hr 7
Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge (1 hr 2)
Former military base is now an endangered wildlife preserve accessible only by water. Sunshine Skyway Bridge (36 min) The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art (24 min)
State art museum founded by the circus magnate with 31 galleries in a pink Renaissance-style palace. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature (23 min)
A planetarium, aquarium & history museum under 1 roof with dioramas & films. Tibbals Learning Center at The Ringling (24 min)
Ringling Circus archives, with historical documents, costume drawings & art (by appointment). Coquina Beach (4 min)
Long public swimming beach featuring picnic tables, cabanas & play areas, plus a casual cafe. Bean Point Beach (18 min)
Peaceful locale known for its wide sandy beach, tranquil waters & stunning sunset views. Robinson Preserve (19 min)
Nature preserve with hiking & biking trails, picnic areas, a boat launch & observation platforms. Sarasota Jungle Gardens (26 min)
Historic attraction featuring more than 150 animals & shows in a tropical setting. Sarasota Bay (22 min)
Named an estuary of national significance, this subtropical, coastal lagoon is popular for kayaking. Manatee Public Beach (8 min)
Park featuring a beach, a playground, picnic tables, grills, bike racks, restrooms, showers & more. Ca' d'Zan (26 min)
Once home to the Ringlings, this circa-1924 mansion draws inspiration from the palazzos of Venice. DeSoto National Memorial Park (17 min)
Nod to the famed explorer's landing site with living-history camp, exhibits, shore & nature trails. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium (21 min)
Aquarium with a stingray touch tank & shark tank plus manatees in the nearby mammal center. Bean Point (18 min) | 
