| set on a private white-sand beach overlooking the gulf of mexico, this low-key resort is a 4-minute drive from shopping and dining at the st. a resort fee covers parking, in-room wi-fi, a mall shuttle, and loaner bikes and beach gear. other amenities include volleyball and shuffleboard courts, a coffee shop and a candlelit restaurant/bar. the private beach features 2 heated pools, a fire pit, movie nights and a breezy bar. armands circle mall. simple rooms, some with gulf views, offer free wi-fi, flat-screen tvs, coffeemakers and minifridges. check-in time: 3:00 pmcheck-out time: 11:00 am. bright 1- and 2-bedroom suites add whirlpool tubs, dining tables, sofabeds, and/or balconies or patios
Tampa International Airport 1 hr 17
Lido Key (2 min)
This barrier island connected to the mainland via a causeway features beaches, a park & nightlife. Sarasota Jungle Gardens (15 min)
Historic attraction featuring more than 150 animals & shows in a tropical setting. Sarasota Beach (25 min)
Expanse of white sand known for beach bars & clear waters, with swimming, kayaking & surf breaks. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art (17 min)
State art museum founded by the circus magnate with 31 galleries in a pink Renaissance-style palace. Ca' d'Zan (19 min)
Once home to the Ringlings, this circa-1924 mansion draws inspiration from the palazzos of Venice. Saint Armands Key (5 min)
Connected to the mainland by a causeway, this Sarasota Bay island offers a large roundabout & park. Siesta Key Beach (25 min)
Fine white quartz sand that stays cool plus a playground, tennis courts & year-round lifeguards. Tibbals Learning Center at The Ringling (17 min)
Ringling Circus archives, with historical documents, costume drawings & art (by appointment). Bayfront Park (10 min)
Waterfront green space with a promenade, playground, tiki bar & dramatic views of the bay & city. Siesta Beach (25 min) Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium (8 min)
Aquarium with a stingray touch tank & shark tank plus manatees in the nearby mammal center. Sarasota Bay (9 min)
Named an estuary of national significance, this subtropical, coastal lagoon is popular for kayaking. Lido Key Beach (3 min)
Sandy beach featuring a concession stand, gift shop & picnic tables, plus a swimming pool. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus (10 min)
Showcase for thousands of tropical plants, plus a conservatory & garden museum, in a historic space. Crescent Beach (25 min)
Quaint, crescent-shaped beach known for its fine white sand & picturesque sunset views. |
