Here is a comprehensive guide to the best hotels in Sarasota, Florida, highlighting their prime locations, detailed accommodations, dining options, guest amenities, and proximity to Sarasota–Bradenton International Airport (SRQ).
The Ritz‑Carlton, Sarasota – Downtown Waterfront Luxury
Location
Nestled on the edge of Sarasota Bay, The Ritz‑Carlton stands in prime downtown real estate—steps from Bayfront Park, the Marina, Art museums, and upscale shopping. Its central address provides easy access to cultural showcases and waterfront dining.
Rooms & Suites
With 266 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, many offer sweeping water views, marble bathrooms, walk-in showers, and plush bedding. Premium suites include separate living spaces, balconies, and club-level access.
Food & Drinks at the Ritz‑Carlton, Sarasota
On-site dining includes the refined Jack Dusty restaurant featuring fresh seafood and steak, a poolside bar, and a private Lido Beach Club providing coastal cuisine and cocktails.
Amenities
The hotel boasts a full-service spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, pool, and exclusive access to Lido Key Beach. Golf and tennis amenities are available via complimentary shuttle.
Distance to Airport
Just 4 miles (≈10 minutes) from SRQ, making airport transfers convenient and quick.
The Sarasota Modern, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Located in the Rosemary Arts & Design District, this hotel offers a stylish urban base—convenient for galleries, performance venues, and walkable downtown attractions.
Rooms & Suites at The Sarasota Modern
All rooms feature contemporary design with kitchenettes, sleek furnishings, and private balconies. Amenities include complimentary Wi‑Fi, digital mobile check-in, and a soothing ambiance.
Food & Drinks
Rudolph’s serves modern American cuisine with a nod to local art culture. The poolside juice bar offers refreshing cocktails in a polished setting.
Amenities
Highlights include an outdoor pool and hot tub, fitness center, meeting space, and in‑house gift shop. Complimentary shuttle within a 3 mile radius makes exploring effortless.
Distance to Airport
Approximately 4 miles from SRQ—about a 10-minute drive.
Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
Location
Centrally placed near Bayfront Park and Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, this boutique hotel is perfect for culture lovers.
Rooms & Suites
Featuring stylish, art-inspired guest rooms and suites, some offer skyline or marina views. Unique features include in-room ukuleles and sketchbooks, enhancing its creative vibe.
Food & Drinks
Guests enjoy on-site dining, live artist events, and occasional tasting evenings. A rooftop pool and bar provide views with drinks.
Amenities at Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection
The property offers a rooftop pool, fitness center, and engaging experiences like art workshops and “meet the artist” events.
Distance to Airport
SRQ airport is just around 4 miles away (~10 minutes).
Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota
Location
Ideal downtown location, within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the new performing arts venues.
Rooms & Suites
All suites offer separate living areas—perfect for families or business travelers. Rooms include free Wi‑Fi, flat-screen TVs, and modern furnishings.
Food & Drinks
Guests receive free made-to-order breakfast and evening receptions with drinks and snacks. The on-site restaurant serves casual American fare.
Amenities at Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota
Amenities include an eighth-floor outdoor pool, fitness center, business center, and meeting spaces. It’s pet-friendly and features digital key access.
Distance to Airport
Approximately 4 miles from SRQ—about a 10-minute trip.
Kompose Boutique Hotel – Personalized Urban Design
Location
Also adjacent to SRQ, this boutique property offers industrial-chic rooms and easy access to downtown Sarasota.
Rooms & Suites
Rooms range from sleek minimalist to loft-style, with customizable add-ons for sauna, gym, or premium Wi‑Fi.
Food & Drinks at Kompose Boutique Hotel
Includes a casual on-site coffee shop and the flexibility to select services like breakfast or in-room dining.
Amenities
Fitness center, sauna, hot tub, pool, podcast studio, guest laundry, and pet-friendly options to tailor your stay.
Distance to Airport
About 0.1 mile—right across the street from SRQ.
Lido Beach Resort – Island-Style Seaside Retreat
Location
Though technically in Lido Key just off Sarasota, this resort offers direct gulf access and a short drive to downtown via the John Ringling Causeway.
Rooms & Suites at Lido Beach Resort
Features modern rooms and suites with balconies and ocean or bay views. Guest reviews praise comfort and gulf-facing vistas.
Food & Drinks
On-site dining includes beachfront restaurants and bars serving seafood, tropical cocktails, and casual fare.
Amenities
Offers beach services, pool, spa access via partnerships, fitness center, water sports rentals, and proximity to St. Armands Circle shopping.
Distance to Airport
Approximately 6 miles (~15 minutes) from SRQ.
Golden Host Resort – Budget-Conscious Bayfront Comfort
Located centrally near downtown Sarasota, offering easy access to Bayfront Park, dining, and the arts.
Rooms & Suites
Offers functional guest rooms and suites at an affordable price point. Comfortable, clean accommodations with modern essentials.
Food & Drinks
No on-site restaurant, but complimentary breakfast is included. Walking distance to numerous eateries.
Amenities at Golden Host Resort
Features an outdoor pool, free Wi‑Fi, and friendly service—great for budget-savvy travelers in search of downtown proximity.
Distance to Airport
About 4 miles from SRQ (~10-minute drive).
SpringHill Suites Sarasota – Bradenton Airport
Location
Located just across from SRQ, this modern suite hotel is also within less than a mile of the Ringling Museum.
Rooms & Suites
Spacious all-suite accommodations feature separate living and sleeping spaces, workstations, free Wi‑Fi, and contemporary décor.
Food & Drinks at SpringHill Suites Sarasota
Offers complimentary continental breakfast, plus a 24/7 Market for snacks and refreshments.
Amenities
Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and 24-hour business center. On-site parking is free.
Distance to Airport
Less than 1 mile away—an easy 3-5 minute drive.
Choosing the Right Sarasota Stay
– Luxury seekers: Opt for the Ritz‑Carlton or Lido Beach Resort for upscale beachfront or bayfront indulgence.
– Culture-centric travelers: Stay at Sarasota Modern or Art Ovation to immerse in local art and architecture.
– Business or family-focused: Embassy Suites and SpringHill Suites offer space and conveniences.
– Eco-friendly boutique style: Go with Kompose, where you pay only for what you use.
– Value-conscious travelers: Golden Host Resort provides downtown accessibility on a budget.