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 resorts top-seeded tennis facilities, sandy beach, and activities for all ages.

• This high-rise overlooks a private marina on Sarasota Bay, across the street from Gee Whiz, and 3 miles from Lido beach.
• Guestrooms offer work desks, phones with voice mail, premium cable TV with in-room movies, and wireless Internet access.
• Hotel features include a zero-entry outdoor pool, indoor and outdoor spa tubs, a fitness center, and a poolside bar and grill.

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.