Desoto Lakes Travel Guide
Sarasota
Visit Desoto Lakes
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Bradenton: Anna Maria Island Guided Kayaking Manatee Tour
Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour
Anna Maria Island & Bradenton Beach Parasailing Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Top hotels in Desoto Lakes
Kompose Boutique Hotel
"Perfect place to stay . I love this place"
Reviewed on 10 Jun 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
"Muy limpio y muy buena atención"
Reviewed on 10 Jun 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
"Although not in The Village, it's in a great location away from the large crowds and a short ride away via the free shuttle. The staff were very friendly and accommodating. The room was small but clean and well equipped. The new pool area is beautiful, but the best thing is its proximity to the beautiful ..."
Reviewed on 9 Jun 2026
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
"It was good not great."
Reviewed on 10 Jun 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
"Staff was very helpful. Older property with a very nice pool area, plenty of parking, decent off-beach location, and a tiki bar with loads of character. Reasonable rates. Would defo stay again."
Reviewed on 10 Jun 2026
Siesta Key Beach Resort and Suites
"Close to beach , close to restaurants , free parking , beach towels provided"
Reviewed on 10 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Desoto Lakes
South Sarasota
While visiting South Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like The Landings and Coconuts Family Entertainment Center.
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 McCurdy's Comedy Theatre.
Palmer Ranch
While there might not be top attractions in Palmer Ranch, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Jim Neville Marine Preserve and Turtle 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.
