Tired of the rat race and desperately need a vacation, but don't have a ton of money for plane tickets to exotic locales? Some of the world's best beaches are in our own backyard here in the Sarasota area! Whether you're planning a long-awaited family vacation or just want a quick yet luxurious weekend at the beach, your perfect paradise awaits at these world-class resorts of Sarasota:

The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota

Experience the tradition of luxury and legendary service in a posh hotel with country club amenities at the Ritz-Carlton. This waterfront oasis in Downtown Sarasota offers golf, tennis, complimentary fitness classes, and a relaxing beachside. What more could you ask for? Don't forget the fabulous dining and enjoy fresh, local cuisine with the Ritz-Carlton touch at Jack Dusty, or chill out on the beach with a fruity artisanal adult beverage at Ridley's Porch on Lido Key.

Lido Beach Resort

This stunning resort is located on a gorgeous private beach near Siesta Key (recently voted one of America's top beaches) and has everything you need to enjoy Florida's amazing Gulf Coast to the fullest. Lido Beach offers two beachfront resort-style pools, one for families and one just for adults. Enjoy private balconies with breathtaking views, rent bicycles, and explore international shopping destination St. Armands Circle, or just kick it with fancy drinks served with a little umbrella at Lido Beach's famous Tiki Bar at 1234 Benjamin Franklin Drive.

Aloft Sarasota

Located on one of Sarasota's most beautiful streets, Ringling Boulevard, this modern and sleek boutique resort is perfect for enjoying both the city and the beach. Aloft offers tech-savvy guests fast and free WiFI so you can stay in touch while getting away as well as a 24/7 beautifully-designed fitness center, the Re:charge Gym. Grab a healthy and delicious snack anytime at Re:fuel by Aloft, chill out and splash at the Rooftop Pool and Bar, or mix and mingle over cocktails and live music at the W XYZ Bar. 

The Resort at Longboat Key Club

Run away to a tropical paradise while staying close to home at the Resort at Longboat Key Club. Featuring one of the largest marinas on Florida's west coast, authentic Old Florida boardwalks, 45 holes of championship golf, and eight distinctive restaurants and lounges, the Resort really has it all! Unwind, get fit, and enjoy beautiful Sarasota with beach yoga, kayaking, wellness workshops at the Mind & Motion Studio, and much more. Or just equip yourself at the Resort's golf and tennis pro shops, then relax by the beach in a private cabana with personalized beachside service. 

The Beach Club at Siesta Key

Chic and modern, the Beach Club at Siesta Key offers a refreshing alternative to traditional hotels with luxurious apartment-style living right on the beach. Indulge in culinary shenanigans in your own full-size modern kitchen, kick back and watch the game on huge flat screen TVs, or while away the hours poolside or on the beach with a delicious frosty beverage. 

Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach

Just half a mile from St. Armand's Circle, the Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach is your chance to experience the best in seaside resort vacationing. Sandcastle's elegant guest rooms will nestle you in luxurious comfort, and you can get out and enjoy the pristine waters of Lido Beach. Two gorgeous, resort-style pools await your relaxation needs, then check out the beachside Sandcastle Pool Bar and delectable cuisine crafted from the finest local ingredients at Sandcastle's Candlelight Restaurant and Lounge. 

There's so much natural beauty and fun to experience right here at Sarasota's best resorts, so why would you want to go anywhere else?

Find more Sarasota resorts by registering on 941area, your ultimate free guide to Sarasota and Bradenton.

 

Cover photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons