Desoto Lakes
Sarasota
Visit Desoto Lakes
Popular places to visit
Lido Beach
Nothing says vacation 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
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.
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 search for that perfect souvenir at Mall at University Town Center during your visit 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 studying the exhibits at John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art during your trip to Sarasota. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Things to do
Mangroves, Manatees & a Hidden Beach Kayak Tour (Siesta Key)
Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Bradenton: Anna Maria Island Guided Kayaking Manatee Tour
Anna Maria Island & Bradenton Beach Parasailing Tour
HydroCats - 2 Hour CraigCat Sightseeing Tour
Top hotels in Desoto Lakes
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
A bit run down, but enjoyed the 60’s vibe. Pool area was nice. Could use a deep clean and fresh paint.
Reviewed on Apr 7, 2026
Kompose Boutique Hotel
Great amenities!
Reviewed on Apr 7, 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
Excellent service
Reviewed on Apr 8, 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
Very clean, Staff was very friendly and helpful
Reviewed on Apr 8, 2026
Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway
Rooms are small and pool was dirty There was a bandaide left by the pool the entire time we were there.
Reviewed on Apr 7, 2026
Lido Beach Resort
The good: staff was over the top friendly, cheerful, helpful, couldn’t do enough for you. The restaurant Drift is amazing. Bar is great, food is excellent, service above and beyond. The not so good: Beach chairs are reserved at 7am when they open but aren’t physically sat in until 10:30-11:00. We ...
Reviewed on Apr 6, 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Desoto Lakes
The Meadows
The Meadows is well-liked for its gardens and lake views. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, Nathan Benderson Park and Mall at University Town Center are some interesting sights nearby to check out.
North Sarasota
While North Sarasota might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Ed Smith Stadium and Sarasota Jungle Gardens.
Pinecraft
While Pinecraft isn't home to many top sights, Ed Smith Stadium and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are some notable places to visit 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.
Downtown Sarasota
If you're spending some time in Downtown Sarasota, Sarasota Opera House and Regal Hollywood - Sarasota are top sights worth seeing.
Central Sarasota
Gardens, art galleries, and theaters are some highlights of Central Sarasota. Make a stop by Sarasota Opera House or Marina Jack while you're exploring.
