“A True Hidden Gem That Redefines Hospitality!
We booked our stay at The Escape Casey Key Resort and Marina the day before the 4th of July weekend—completely last minute—after rerouting a family trip originally headed to the Great Wolf Lodge in Naples for a scuba adventure my husband planned on the fly. And let me tell you, this spontaneous change of plans turned out to be the best decision we could’ve made!
For context, we’ve traveled in everything from a 5th wheel toy hauler to luxury resorts like the Ritz-Carlton, and we’ve sadly grown used to the steady decline in customer service over the years. So we weren’t expecting anything exceptional. But the moment we booked, Mark from the resort proved us wrong.
Mark actually called us the night before our check-in to let us know our room wasn’t occupied—and that we were welcome to check in as early as 9:00 AM the next morning when he arrived at the office. In today’s travel world, that kind of proactive and thoughtful service is almost unheard of. Naturally, we rearranged our morning to take full advantage, and that extra day added a whole new level of magic to our stay.
Upon arrival, Mark greeted us warmly, ensured we were settled in, and walked us through the many complimentary amenities available to guests. A beach wagon, umbrella, sand toys for our toddler, bikes, pool floats, beach chairs—all included. Not a single hidden fee or upsell. We kept expecting a catch, but there wasn’t one.
There were also kayaks, paddle boards, propane grills, and even a rec room stocked with books and board games—all available for guest use at no extra charge. The grounds were immaculate, and our room was essentially a full apartment—spotless and modern, as if it had been renovated just hours before we arrived.
We rode the bikes to a local restaurant for dinner, and used their private walkway to easily cross the street with our beach wagon to the gorgeous shoreline—maybe 60 feet away. Everything about this place felt like a breath of fresh air.
We're already sending family to stay there this coming weekend, and we absolutely plan to return ourselves, this time with even more loved ones in tow.
Thank you, Escape Casey Key, for reminding us what true hospitality is supposed to look like. This place is an absolute treasure!”
Open 24 hours
220 Sands Point Rd, Longboat Key
Hotels
“I stayed in a studio unit in the adjacent building, as this was the only option available due to booking late. The interiors were overall pleasant, with good-quality furnishings, a functional kitchenette, and a level of cleanliness that met expectations.
The location is one of the property’s main strengths — set in a quiet, private environment with direct access to a well-equipped beach. The pool is large and attractive, although not entirely sufficient for the number of guests across the four buildings. The on-site restaurant is also enjoyable, with a relaxed atmosphere and pleasant views over the pool area.
During the stay, one issue emerged: a noticeable mold odor in the first room. The staff responded promptly and relocated us to a neighboring unit. The second room was an improvement, though some residual humidity was still perceptible despite ventilation and air conditioning. In addition, the air-conditioning unit had the motor inside the room, which made it rather noisy.
I particularly appreciated the WhatsApp messaging service with the staff. Communication was easy, and responses were consistently prompt and courteous, which positively contributed to the overall experience.”
“Staff was very, very nice. The view is awesome. Very well kept can’t wait to go back. Restaurants and stores are close by five stars all the way around just wish the weather was better”
“As someone who always searches for the best little hidden gems, this one fits the bill! Special little place!!! So clean. Incredibly supplied with everything you need for a short or long stay. Stayed in the cottage with 5 friends for our 50th birthday. The beach chairs, the beach bikes, the beach wagon were amazing to have access to! So many little sitting areas to have a pre dinner drink or morning coffee. I will definitely be back to this new found hidden gem! Thanks Gur!”
“I could not have been happier with my stay. The hotel has such a warm and loved feeling to it - along with the history. I also learned from a neighbor that the owner is a legend... Bringing Caulk Art to Rome and Spain. the art is amazing!!!”
“Absolutely exceptional! The best hotel in Downtown Sarasota, without a doubt! My business trip stay exceeded expectations at this extraordinary gem. The hotel boasts a unique artistic touch, impeccable customer service, and luxurious rooms. The rooftop is stunning and offers breathtaking views. If you're visiting downtown Sarasota, choose this over the Ritz Carlton for an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended!”
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
6782 Sarasea Cir, Sarasota
Hotels
“Great kindness and helpful. I am very glad to have choose this place.Rooms: clean room, complete kitchenette with everything you need, large bathroom with everything you need. we were allowed to use the common spaces, parking and facilities even after check outNearby activities: Beautiful beaches, few miles to arrive in SaratosaSafety: Quiet placeWalkability: Few steps to the beechFood & drinks: Few steps to find nice and varied food”
“Lovely, quiet group of bungalows on Heron Lagoon with shared outdoor space including several grills and tables and lounging chairs nicely arranged. Kitchen is stocked with basic pots, pans & utensils for cooking and coffee but no oil or spices. The free Siesta Key trolley runs right past the parking lot and makes it incredibly easy to get around, even if you do not have a car. So nice to have the chairs, umbrella & beach towels available for use while there. Daniel was super responsive, friendly & helpful and clearly loves the area. We are hooked after our first visit to Siesta Key. Would definitely stay at Gertrude Siesta Bungalows again.”
“We spent our 41th anniversary here in the Sunset Suite and what a lovely suite it is! Sadly, the hot tub did not work, we were offered to use another suite's hot tub, but that felt kinda weird. The kitchen had everything we needed, and lots of extra towels in the bathroom. We enjoyed the quiet location, the sunsets from our porch overlooking the bay, watching dolphins swim by, and the short walk to turtle beach.”
“Paradise. Very comfortable. Awesome location.
Rooms: Room was comfortable. Next time I’ll choose a little larger room but we didn’t come to Florida for the room ?
Nearby activities: Couple of waterside restaurants and tiki huts close by.
Safety: Quiet. Safe.
Walkability: There were food options within walking distance.”
“This was by far, the nicest, cleanest, and professional Best Western that I've ever stayed in. The front desk staff was extremely helpful and went above and beyond. My son dropped his phone down the elevator shaft and within a few days they called and retrieved it, then had it shipped home back to Tennessee. It is uncommon these days for hotels to really go the extra mile. I highly recommend - the pool is also amazing as well as the location, central to dining and shopping needs.”
Open 24 hours
5965 Brookhill Blvd, Sarasota
Hotels
“Large room w/kitchenette, great water pressure, very clean, nice staff, good breakfast & an amazing, heated pool. All of this for around $130/night. I will stay here again.”
8:30AM - 5PM
777 Beach Rd, Sarasota
Hotels
“We have stayed at one of the condos at Crescent Royale for the past several years. Great location and facility. Some condos are nicer than others, but overall this place is great to stay at.
Slow elevators.”
“Incredible family-friendly stay — spacious 3BR suites + perfect Siesta Key location
We had an amazing stay at the Hyatt Residence in Siesta Key and can’t recommend it enough — especially for families. One of the biggest highlights is that the accommodations are true suites (not just a standard hotel room). Ours was a 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom suite, and the space was a total game-changer. Everyone had their own room, everyone had their own bathroom, and we actually felt comfortable spreading out and relaxing. Traveling with kids is so much easier when you’re not cramped, and this place really nails that “vacation home” feel while still giving you a resort-level experience.
The suites are also beautifully finished and feel high-end. The kitchen setup is impressive with Wolf appliances, and everything felt clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed. After a day in the sun, the rain shower was one of those small luxuries that made the stay feel even more special.
Another huge win: walkability. We loved how easy it was to just step out and walk to everything — coffee in the morning, restaurants for lunch or dinner, and drinks in the evening. Not having to constantly load up the car or plan around driving made the whole trip feel way more relaxing (and way more fun).
And the beach… honestly, it’s the best beach I’ve ever been to. The sand and water are unreal, and it has that “this doesn’t feel real” kind of beauty.
Last but definitely not least, the staff was fantastic. Everyone we interacted with was friendly, helpful, and made us feel genuinely welcome. It’s the kind of service that elevates the whole experience.
Overall, this resort hits the perfect balance — luxury feel, family-friendly setup, and an unbeatable location. Whether you’re coming with kids or as a couple, it’s a great choice. We’ll absolutely be back”
“Very private, my family stayed for 4 nights. The fold out sofa bed mattress is not very comfortable (you can feel the springs) otherwise it served our purpose perfectly. Easy access to Turtle Beach (which was a better time than siesta beach) used the dock when we rented a boat. They also had some beach gear (we bought more and left it behind for the next guest)”
Open 24 hours
227 Albee Rd W, Nokomis
Hotels
“I live on the road for job and I have stayed in so many hotels. This one right here is where its at if your trying to find a place to stay. My stays here are long so I got to know the staff here and they are all so nice. I have never had a bad room here or bad experience. The cleaniness level is so off the charts. The lobby is always immaculate. Always. greeted with a smile I love it. The lobby smells like cookies lol always makes me hungry. The amenities are awesome as well. I love goinf out and playing guitar by the pool or the front lounge area. I always find interesting people here. I have stayed here a few times and I always look forward to coming back. Cant say enough about it. Just give it a shot and you wont be disappointed.”
“Hotel has a perfectly usable kitchen, has a view of the pond, and the breakfast was phenomenal. I'm glad I'm here, I'm comfortable. The waffle king ? also made my breakfast for me. Would come here again!”
Open 24 hours
281 U.S. 41 Bypass N, Venice
Hotels
“Loved my stay here! The room was super clean, the staff really friendly, and it's in near great spot near the beaches and restaurants. Would definitely come back.”
“Vernon was wonderful and did a fantastic job helping and explaining everything to me , it was my first time at this hotel and he answered all my questions and helped me out 10/10 Thank you !”
Open 24 hours
400 Commercial Ct, Venice
Hotels
“I have been staying at this hotel since the early 2000s. In that time, I have seen many changes to the hotel, and all of them have been wonderful. The staff has always been very friendly and helpful, and the hotel is always kept in great shape.
Nearby activities: Downtown Venice, and its beaches within 10 minutes.
Walkability: Many great food options within walking distance of the hotel.
Food & drinks: Brew Burgers, Cracker Barrel, McDonald’s, Dunkin Donuts, Culver’s, Arby’s, Taco Bell, Starbucks, Wawa”
“"Bianco Sands 1108- Everything was perfect! Cozy place, nice beach decoration, comfortable and with everything we needed. Very well located, Close to the beach and stores, we loved it!”
Open 24 hours
380 Commercial Ct, Venice
Hotels
“I am beyond satisfied with my experience. It was made to feel like home. As soon as i arrived & tripped carrying my luggage and fell fast; The sweet young woman downstairs was understanding and considerate and made me feel comfortable again ASAP and took away my anxiety with her politeness .Thank you !Safety: The staff makes you feel safe at all times and are down to earth all the way to when they help you get back up after falling.Walkability: Carpet helped absorb an abrupt fall while staff simultaneously lifted my spirits back up.”
“Affordable, clean, comfortable, and close to plenty of essential businesses yet quiet to where I could sleep peacefully. All necessary accomodations plus outside seating with plenty of storage for personal items and clothing. More than enough electrical outlets. Will be back whenever I'm working in the area. Up to date appliances and air conditioning - again can't beat the price! Well pleased. Wi-Fi and laundry on site as well honestly everything I needed.”
Open 24 hours
1401 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota
Hotels
“Very clean and nice staff
Rooms: Clean!
Nearby activities: Bars etc.
Safety: Wet floor sign usage
Walkability: Close to everything downtown
Food and drinks: Good vending”
Open 24 hours
811 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Hotels
“The woman at the front desk was super nice and welcoming! The room rate was inexpensive for the area and convenient to the downtown. The building is older, but everything on property was clean.”
“We live in Michigan, and thought that we could find an affordable place to visit Venice Beach.
Well, thank you Ray.
You are wonderful.
The property is well kept and the location is amazingly close to beaches.
If you like mall shopping, stay at home. If you enjoy sunsets off the gulf coast at an affordable price, stay at Travelodge by Wyndham Venice.”
“We have thoroughly enjoyed our three week stay. Got great night sleeps in the comfy beds, and enjoyed the exercise facility and pool. The service staff was excellent too. Great location.. near restaurants and beaches and Venice and Sarasota.”