Lake Sarasota Travel Guide
Sarasota
Visit Lake 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ringling College of Art and Design
Explore the campus of Ringling College of Art and Design during your visit to Sarasota. In the area, take in the fascinating museums and 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
Bradenton: Anna Maria Island Guided Kayaking Manatee Tour
Anna Maria Island - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Top hotels in Lake Sarasota
Kompose Boutique Hotel
This hotel was one for the books for my boyfriend and I. first saty here and we're already looking forward to our next stay. Location, staff, comfortability, safety, cleanliness and everything in-between was amazing!!
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
Tropical Beach Resorts
The property is stunning, A pool with three waterfalls turf lounging. Tiki huts. The staff incredibly friendly & accommodating. Beach is in walking distance. I would come back again & again. Oh the Room perfect Tropical, clean, comfy bed.
Reviewed on 25 Oct 2025
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
The pool was the perfect temperature and the bar staff was very nice.
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
Reception staff was very friendly.
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
Tropical Breeze Resort
Excellent staff and always a great place to stay when in Siesta Key!!!
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
The Westin Sarasota
The restaurant service is quite slow considering that only two or three tables were occupied each time we visited. On one occasion, I ordered a filet mignon medium-well, but it was served well-done. On a positive note, breakfast was very good, although the avocado had some bad sections that should ...
Reviewed on 21 Oct 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Lake Sarasota
Bee Ridge
Notable for its beaches, restaurants and shopping, Bee Ridge is a sought-after destination for many travellers visiting Sarasota. If you want to see some sights in the area, check out Siesta Key Beach or Siesta Key Marina.
Sarasota Springs
The beaches and restaurants are a few reasons travellers visit Sarasota Springs. Want to see more of the surrounding area? Ed Smith Stadium and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are a few top sights nearby.
Fruitville
Restaurants, beaches and shopping highlight some of the notable features of Fruitville. Make a stop by Nathan Benderson Park while you're exploring.
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.
Pinecraft
While there might not be top attractions in Pinecraft, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Sarasota Commons Shopping Center and Ed Smith Stadium.
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 Turtle Beach.
