Bayfront Travel Guide
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.
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.
Ed Smith Stadium
Catch an event at Ed Smith Stadium during your trip to Sarasota. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Things to do
Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour
Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Anna Maria Island & Bradenton Beach Parasailing Tour
Anna Maria Island: The Island Kayak Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Amish Experience Trolley Tour: Bridges to Understanding
Top hotels in Bayfront
Kompose Boutique Hotel
room was clean, staff was exceptional. when we got off the elevator to our floor there was a bad smell that was there our entire stay. cleaner mixed with a funk. the pool area and hay tub leaves a lot to be desired but for a night or two it's a great choice.
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
Beautiful facility. Very relaxing. Staff is awesome. Beach is amazing!
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
The rooms were super clean, the staff texted and checked in on us daily seeing if we needed anything. They have two restaurants on site and a great big pool.
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Carlisle Inn
Everything was incredible!
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Lido Beach Resort
Not enough space here to write about all the great aspects of this wonderful place. Staff...A+ Management...A+ Coffee bar A++ Front Desk A++ Cleanliness A Restaurant A++ Food A++ Prices A++ Waitstaff A++ Pools and pool staff GREAT Beach... beautiful We are so glad to have found Lido Beach Resort ...
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
Hyatt Place Sarasota/Bradenton Airport
Very friendly staff. Location is great for the airport
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Bayfront
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 Regal Hollywood - Sarasota.
Bird Key
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Bird Key and surrounding area, you can visit St. Armands Circle and Lido Beach.
Saint Armands Key
Beaches and restaurants are just a few things travellers like about Saint Armands Key. A stop by St. Armands Circle is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.
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.
Indian Beach Sapphire Shores
While visiting Indian Beach Sapphire Shores, you might make a stop by sights like Sarasota Jungle Gardens and John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art.
