South Sarasota Travel Guide
Sarasota
Visit South Sarasota
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.
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.
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.
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 - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Siesta Key, FL - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Amish Experience Trolley Tour: Bridges to Understanding
Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour
Top hotels in South Sarasota
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
Yes
Reviewed on 18 Apr 2026
Kompose Boutique Hotel
Cute hotel with unique vibe. Close to airport, but there isn't much plane noise. Good location both to Sarasota and Bradenton. Breakfast was nice but nothing special. Standard as in most hotels. The bathroom lacks some privacy. Overall cool.
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
It’s a beautiful resort. Highly recommended it.
Reviewed on 18 Apr 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
Loved the area, plenty of places to eat nearby. Really close to the beach. Clean and cozy. Poolside bar is great!
Reviewed on 18 Apr 2026
Lido Beach Resort
The property was very clean. The staff were pleasant overall it was a great day.
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around South Sarasota
Ridge Wood Heights
Ridge Wood Heights is well liked for its parks. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Sarasota area, you might plan a trip to The Landings or Siesta Key Beach.
Southgate
While there might not be top attractions in Southgate, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach.
Arlington Park
Though Arlington Park may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and Marina Jack.
South Gate Ridge
South Gate Ridge is well liked for its churches. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Sarasota area, you might plan a trip to Siesta Key Beach or Siesta Key Marina.
Gulf Gate Estates
Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Gulf Gate Estates. Make a stop by top sights like Gulf Gate Golf Club while you're exploring the area.
Bird Key
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Bird Key and surrounding area, you can visit Lido Beach and South Lido Park.
