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 - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Siesta Key, FL - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Experience Parasailing in Sarasota
Top hotels in Lake Sarasota
Kompose Boutique Hotel
Overall good. Kind of odd seeing exposed concrete walls. You need to pay attention to maintenance items like soap dispenser off the wall in men's bathroom on first floor, entry door squeaks and rubs, some areas need paint touch up on main floor. Overall, very trendy.
Reviewed on 6 Nov 2025
Tropical Beach Resorts
This was our 2nd time here & we were able to stay in a
Reviewed on 4 Nov 2025
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
Room was very clean and all amenities were there as expected.
Reviewed on 2 Nov 2025
Tropical Breeze Resort
Hotel was in a great location. Staff was nice and the room was very clean. The pool and hot tub were also a nice
Reviewed on 2 Nov 2025
Carlisle Inn
Best hotel! It is my go to in the area! Super clean, quiet, friendly, and every time I walk through the affirmative doors
Reviewed on 2 Nov 2025
The Westin Sarasota
N/A
Reviewed on 3 Nov 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.
