Marble, crystal chandeliers, elegant flower arrangements, fine art, period furniture, and discreet service are all elements of the Ritz-Carlton, set on 11 manicured acres along Sarasota Bay. While leisure travelers make up the majority of guests, the resort's casual sophistication attracts business travelers as well.

Tucked away in a very secluded enclave of Longboat Key, the resort is set along an 800-foot-long white-sand beach bordering the azure Gulf of Mexico. Three-story buildings arrayed in clusters along the shore house the one- and two-bedroom suites. Vacationing couples and families are attracted to the resort’s top-seeded tennis facilities, sandy beach, and activities for all ages.

Located on the exclusive barrier island of Longboat Key just off the coast of Sarasota, The Hilton Longboat Key Beachfront Resort is nestled beneath Banyan trees along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Guests enjoy watching bottled-nose dolphins off-shore, as well as the resident wading birds. Miles of white sand border the waters of the Gulf.

What to expect: Two miles from the airport via complimentary shuttle, Sarasota Hotel & Marina is popular with flight crews on layovers. The resort hotel also attracts guests visiting spring-training camps; McKechnie Field and Ed Smith Stadium are both within five miles.

Amenity highlights: Overlooking Sarasota Bay, this resort hotel offers a dockside pool and tiki bar, water-sports rentals, four lighted tennis courts, and a pro shop. A casual Key West-style restaurant overlooks the dock, and a branch of Pizzeria Uno is on site. Wireless Internet access in public areas is complimentary.

The Lido Beach Resort faces its own private stretch of sugar-sand beach on Lido Key, a barrier island linked by causeway to downtown Sarasota. Palm trees, lush gardens, waterfalls, footbridges, and a koi pond create a tranquil mood at this family-friendly resort.

What to expect: Near the entrance to the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, on University Parkway, this friendly hotel offers easy access to downtown Sarasota and the beaches. Families appreciate the hotel's spacious suites, modern comforts, and complimentary amenities, as well as proximity to area attractions.

Amenity highlights: The complimentary Suite Seasons breakfast buffet includes sausages, eggs, make-your-own waffles, and fresh fruit. A 24-hour market adjacent to the front desk stocks beverages, snacks, and microwave meals. Wireless Internet access is complimentary in the lobby area. An outdoor pool and spa tub are open year-round.

Insider tip: Lido Beach is closest to the hotel, but guests may want to venture the extra six miles to Siesta Beach, with its powdery white sand, gentle waves, and fabulous sunsets. The family-friendly beach features shallow water near the shoreline, year-round lifeguard protection, a playground, and a picnic area.