Hotel recommendation

Question

What is recommended hotel for a family of 4 with 2 boys age 10 either in longboat key, Anna Maria island, or Sarasota. I am not familiar with this area in Florida. We are looking for a very nice hotel, family friendly, pool, and on beach. Would love to be able to walk to restaurants if possible.

Answer

Great question! There are several really good family-friendly, beachfront hotel options in Longboat Key, Anna Maria Island, and Sarasota/Lido Key. Here are my top recommendations with pros and things to consider for a family of 4 (two 10-year-old boys):

Resort at Longboat Key Club – Longboat Key
- This is a full resort with a very family-friendly feel, including a kids’ club (“Camp Loggerhead”), playground, and a general pool area.
- It has beachfront access, plus calm, upscale amenities and dining. The resort style means you’ll have a relaxing base and not feel crowded.
- Because it’s a resort rather than a boutique hotel, there’s more on-site programming for kids — ideal for keeping them engaged when not on the beach.
Lido Beach Resort – Sarasota / Lido Key
- Located directly on Lido Key’s Gulf-facing beach.
- Rooms include suites with full kitchens or kitchenettes so you can have flexibility for family meals.
- The resort has two heated pools, including family-friendly space and a separate quieter pool, which is great for everyone.
- Activities nearby: the resort is close to Sarasota attractions like The Ringling Museum and Mote Marine Laboratory, which is perfect for family outings.
Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach – Lido Key / Sarasota
- A budget-friendlier beachfront resort with direct access to Lido Key Beach.
- Comfortable room options, plus a pool and services like babysitting to give parents a little break.
- Close to St. Armands Circle (shops, restaurants) so you can walk out for dinner or ice cream with the family.

Things to Think About:

Location vs. Amenities: Longboat Key Club is more resort-focused and quieter, which is great for relaxing, while Lido Key resorts put you closer to restaurants, shopping, and the cultural things in Sarasota.
Room Configuration: For a family of 4, look for suites or rooms with two beds, or one-bedroom suites with a kitchen so you can prepare some meals.
Beach Access: Lido Key’s beach is very accessible, and having a resort right on the beach makes it easy to come and go with kids. Longboat Key also has private beach access, but fewer walkable dining options.
Value: Sandcastle Resort may be the best mix of beachfront + value; Lido Beach Resort is a little more upscale; Longboat Key Club is a full resort experience (and likely the most expensive of the three).

My Recommendation: For a family trip with two 10-year-olds, Lido Beach Resort stands out as a fantastic option — you get beachfront access, great amenities, and enough space for everyone, plus being close to both beach and cultural activities. If you want a more resort-style experience where the kids can be entertained on-site, then Resort at Longboat Key Club is excellent. And if budget is important, and you want a beach-first but simpler stay, Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach is a smart pick.

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