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.
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 Bayfront
Kompose Boutique Hotel
"Great place to stay, very modern and beautiful. We really enjoyed everything in this place."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
"Not up to the standards of other Margaritaville properties. Air conditioning did not cool in main area. Bathroom floor was filthy and bathroom smelled. Furniture was stained. Had a room on the Tiki Bar side and we could hear the banging from the music through the walls, thank goodness the music ended ..."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
"The toilet was not securely mounted to the floor, the AC was a little loud, other then these two items the room was quite and the hotel grounds were fine."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
"We had a fantastic stay at Tropical Beach Resorts in Siesta Key. The location couldn't be better — our suite was only about 300 feet from the beach access, which made trips to the sand and surf effortless. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. Daily housekeeping was a nice touch — ..."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
"I can’t think of much good to say about this motel besides the 24/7 coffee available in the lobby and the pool was nice. The front desk staff was also very nice and accommodated any requests for new towels, sheets, etc. That said, the room was very dreary, old looking, and stale smelling and there ..."
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Carlisle Inn
"Great hotel! The staff were so helpful and the 4pm cookies were a hit with our family."
Reviewed on 20 May 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 Lido Beach and South Lido Park.
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.
