Desoto Lakes Travel Guide
Sarasota
Visit Desoto Lakes
Popular places to visit
Lido Beach
Nothing says holiday like spending a lazy day at Lido Beach, a popular beach in Sarasota. Wander the picturesque gardens or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
St. Armands Circle
Consider this area as a circular outdoor mall. Like any mall, you can shop, dine, browse or just people-watch. Unlike most malls, this one never closes to walkers.
Mall at University Town Center
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Mall at University Town Center during your trip to Sarasota. Attend a sporting event or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
See hungry sharks and delicate seahorses at this research aquarium that specializes in the sea life that flourishes on Florida’s central west coastline.
Nathan Benderson Park
Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Nathan Benderson Park, a lovely green space in Sarasota. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.
John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
You can spend time exploring the galleries in John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Things to do
Mangrove Tunnel & Manatee Kayak Eco-Tour
Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour
Bradenton: Anna Maria Island Guided Kayaking Manatee Tour
Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Anna Maria Island: The Island Kayak Tour
Anna Maria Island & Bradenton Beach Parasailing Tour
Top hotels in Desoto Lakes
Kompose Boutique Hotel
I had a wonderful experience at Kompose Boutique Hotel Sarasota. The hotel is very modern, clean, and beautifully decorated. The room was comfortable, quiet, and had everything I needed for a relaxing stay. The staff was friendly and professional, and the check-in process was quick and easy. I especially ...
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
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Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
We were locked out of our room. The master key and physical key barely opened the door. It was very hot, and smelled like mildew. The second room was on the second floor, the remote for the tv was also for the air conditioning unit which still did not work for either.
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
The staff was incredibly accommodating and friendly. We’re definitely coming back to enjoy all the property has to offer..
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
The front desk staff was sweet and very helpful.
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Carlisle Inn
This place was amazing, peaceful and we were able to commute to the beach no problem! The breakfast was great and so were the cookies they give out daily! Very clean and cozy. Like extremely clean. Staff are very kind. No complaints whatsoever. Highly recommend!
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Desoto Lakes
The Meadows
The gardens and lake views are a few reasons travellers visit The Meadows. Want to see more of the surrounding area? Nathan Benderson Park and Mall at University Town Center are a few top sights nearby.
North Sarasota
While North Sarasota isn't home to many top sights, Ed Smith Stadium and Sarasota Jungle Gardens are some notable places to visit nearby.
Fruitville
Restaurants, beaches and shopping highlight some of the notable features of Fruitville. Make a stop by Nathan Benderson Park while you're exploring.
Alta Vista
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Alta Vista and surrounding area, you can visit Colonial Village Shopping Center and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
Downtown Sarasota
While visiting Downtown Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like Sarasota Opera House and Regal Hollywood - Sarasota.
Central Sarasota
Gardens, art galleries and theatres highlight some of the noteworthy features of Central Sarasota. Make a stop by Sarasota Opera House or Marina Jack while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
