The Lakes Travel Guide
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.
St. Armands Circle
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at St. Armands Circle during your trip to Sarasota. Stroll along the seaside 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.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Take the family to visit the sea animals who live in Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium during your holiday to Sarasota. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
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.
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.
Top hotels in The Lakes
Kompose Boutique Hotel
Looks good, amazing place
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
It is a small property, it has a real homie feelie. The staff was nice and I really enjoyed the Bahi Hut next door. I will stay again.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
Definitely recommended. Super chill and cute hotel. Quality breakfast, very clean.
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
Great location on beach with convenient lounge chairs and umbrellas. Kids also loved the new pool. Many restaurants within walking distance but they get crowded. Our 2nd visit there and will be back in future.
Reviewed on 9 May 2026
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
The hotel and staff were very very good. The breakfast was definitely less than what we expected and minimal tea options, and coffee was always empty. Pół area was clean and relaxing- we needed a late check out due to a car issue and staff was very accommodating. Beds were comfortable - our room ...
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
Lido Beach Resort
I stayed in the motel section, as it was the only room available and it was very clean and nice modern elevated style. The Drift Kotchen and bar is beautiful with great views. The service was very good all around.
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around The Lakes
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.
Southgate
While there might not be top attractions in Southgate, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach.
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.
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.
Arlington Park
Though Arlington Park may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and Marina Jack.
