I was recently in the Tampa/St. Pete area and decided to travel the 1 ½ hours south to Sarasota to check out the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota and I’m glad I did. The town of Sarasota is really quaint with a large round-about containing many shops and restaurants.
Within walking distance is the Ritz-Carlton which is decorated in the “classic” Ritz style with large ornate chandeliers in the foyer and hallways but is currently receiving a modern update. The main hotel restaurant is undergoing a transformation and should be open to all guests this week. There’s also a pool bar and grill which has very tasty cheeseburgers.
Location is on the water, but not the beach. You need to go to the Beach Club on Lido Key for that which is only 3 miles away. Guests can walk there and back or take the hotel shuttle that runs every hour on the hour. Once at the Beach Club you will find a very nice and tropical pool with zero entry, beach set-up and service, abundant locker rooms, full-service restaurant, and the Kids Club. Although we visited in January the temperatures were very nice at the hotel and even warmer at the Beach Club.
The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota also has an 18-hole Tom Fazio designed golf course located 11 miles away which houses a clubhouse, restaurant, and pro shop.
The rooms are typical of Ritz-Carlton including a Club level with their own dedicated concierge. You can also find a spa, fitness center, and meeting and ballroom facilities.
This hotel is very glamorous and chic but very approachable to families, couples and adult groups. You should consider a vacation here anytime of the year and when you book with McAlpin Travel you will receive the following Virtuoso amenities: upgrade upon arrival (subject to availability), American breakfast for 2 daily, and $ 100 resort credit.