Sunfinder Vacations

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: On a private stretch of white sand in Lido Beach, this low-key resort has been welcoming vacationers for decades. In addition to seaside pleasures, the resort is just across the street from a park with nature and canoe trails and one mile from the trendy shops and restaurants at St. Armands Circle. Accommodations span seven buildings overlooking the gulf, pools, and a courtyard.

Amenity highlights: In addition to swimming and sunning on the 600-foot strand of private beach, guests at The Helmsley Sandcastle can rent personal watercraft, kayaks, small sailboats, and bicycles. Other recreation includes two outdoor pools, a fitness center, and volleyball and shuffleboard courts. Use of beach chairs is complimentary.

Dining options include a coffee shop, restaurant and lounge, sidewalk café, and a poolside bar where complimentary hors d’oeuvres are served nightly.

Insider tip: Less than three miles from the resort, Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium offers up-close views of manatees, eels, rays, and other underwater Florida natives.

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.