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.
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.
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.
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 & Bradenton Beach Parasailing Tour
Anna Maria Island: The Island Kayak Tour
Top hotels in Desoto Lakes
Kompose Boutique Hotel
"Todo ok"
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
"My complaint is they start cleaning at 830 am and, when you are trying to rest that is no good,you ask for coffee or other things oh we don't have any more, no microwave you can use and charge you 25 dollars for service fee per day but is not there when you do your reservation."
Reviewed on 18 Jun 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
"We loved everything about the resort! Super close to everything and very clean!"
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
"Would definitely stay here again. It’s an older place, but overall kept up well and rooms were clean. The pool area with bar was great! And there is a shuttle service into the village or to the beaches that is tips only so that is a nice service vs taking an Uber. Plus, Geckos restaurant is right ..."
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
"Very convenient and close to the air port"
Reviewed on 18 Jun 2026
Siesta Key Beach Resort and Suites
"The room was clean & nicely decorated. The bathroom however, was extremely small with no room to put any toiletries . The location of the hotel’s restaurant was convenient but would have been better if they offered breakfast"
Reviewed on 16 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Desoto Lakes
Lido Key
Traverse a winding woodland path and spend the afternoon on this island’s secluded beaches before ending at a beachside bar to enjoy a spectacular sunset.
South Sarasota
While visiting South Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like The Landings and Coconuts Family Entertainment Center.
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.
Downtown Sarasota
While visiting Downtown Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like Sarasota Opera House and Florida Studio Theatre.
Palmer Ranch
While there might not be top attractions in Palmer Ranch, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club and Sarasota Square.
