Where to stay, by kind of trip

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

$$$$ · Downtown, marina views

Full-service luxury with a private beach club on Lido Key. Best if you want downtown restaurants and a shuttle to the sand rather than a beachfront room itself.

Zota Beach Resort

$$$ · Longboat Key, beachfront

Directly on the sand with a quieter, less commercial feel than Siesta Key hotels. Good for couples wanting to not leave the property much.

Siesta Key Beach Condos

$$–$$$ · Walk to Siesta Key Beach

Independent rental condos, usually a short walk from the sand and cheaper per night than resorts for groups of 4+. Inventory changes constantly — check current listings.

Lido Beach Resort

$$$ · Lido Key, beachfront

Full kitchens in most rooms and a genuine beachfront pool deck — a practical pick for families staying a week or more.