South Sarasota Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit South Sarasota
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.
Activities
Mangrove Tunnel & Manatee Kayak Eco-Tour
Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour
Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Siesta Key Electric Bike Sunset Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Murder Mystery Trolley: Who Killed The Circus Queen?
Our pick of the best South Sarasota Hotel Deals
Kompose Boutique Hotel
"Everything was great"
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
"Great hotel"
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
"This property was so nice! So close to the beach. Very clean. Good supplies for bathroom, kitchen, etc. Kitchen was great, although we didn’t need all that. Supplies in there were great. Bigger refrigerator than I thought we would have. Had a stove, utensils, plates, glasses, etc. It was said to ..."
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
"Everything was great but the TV. Limited local channels - no way to watch the NBA finals"
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
"Hi there, the beds were very comfortable and the staff was nice and would help if asked. An example, would be they would give us new towels if we asked. The housekeeping did not clean each day but that may be normal, I am not sure. Pool was nice. The shower leaked on to the floor no matter what we ..."
Reviewed on 11 June 2026
Siesta Key Beach Resort and Suites
"Great location, can walk everywhere. Parking is tough in that area, so walk and save yourself the trouble. Beautiful modern rooms, nice pool, great tiki bar."
Reviewed on 10 June 2026
Check South Sarasota hotel availability
Our guide on where to stay in South Sarasota
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.
Gulf Gate Estates
Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Gulf Gate Estates. Make a stop by top sights like Gulf Gate Golf Club while you're exploring the area.
