Bayou Oaks Travel Guide
Sarasota
Visit Bayou Oaks
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
Mangroves, Manatees & a Hidden Beach Kayak Tour (Siesta Key)
Bradenton: Anna Maria Island Guided Kayaking Manatee Tour
Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Anna Maria Island: The Island Kayak Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Anna Maria Island & Bradenton Beach Parasailing Tour
Top hotels in Bayou Oaks
Hyatt Place Sarasota/Bradenton Airport
Great stay!
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2026
Kompose Boutique Hotel
There is not a beach view. Check in staff a little rude and dismissive. Room was clean but hallways smell like mildew. When I booked it said free parking and free breakfast - however parking is $5 per night and breakfast $7 per person
Reviewed on 7 Mar 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
The pool was heated and great. One of the best beds ive slept in.
Reviewed on 7 Mar 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
Really nice room with kitchenette. Staff was very friendly. Loved the pool in the front with the waterfalls.
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
Loved the marina view off of our balcony. The pool was great and the free breakfasts were very good.
Reviewed on 7 Mar 2026
Azul Resort Siesta Key
Nice staff. Well kept grounds. Cheerful.
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Bayou Oaks
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.
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.
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.
Whitfield Estates
While there might not be top attractions in Whitfield Estates, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Powel Crosley Estate and Ca’ d’Zan.
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.
