The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Great location and service

Overall, this is a wonderful hotel. The grounds and common areas are meticulously maintained and filled with flowers. The staff was friendly and helpful and our special requests (more regular coffee packets and q-tips) were responded to promptly. We went to the beach club twice and the hotel pool once. Both very nice, hotel pool is a little quieter. The hotel is walking distance to main street bars and restaurants, or you can take the shuttle to the local circle (we actually walked it once, it's about 2.5 miles). We found a great variety of very good food was available. We enjoyed the room as well - a lovely balcony overlooked the pool and a marina. We will be returning.

We stayed at this hotel for several days and the only word that comes to mind is, "Awful." We had problems with this hotel and they were addressed by hotel management with arrogance and a casual lack of concern. The food choices were limited and overpriced and getting to the beach is a ridiculous hassle. We have stayed at many hotels in the Ritz chain, and have seen it deteriorate over the years into a high-priced Marriott. Extremely disappointed!

The hotel is one of the best in Sarasota and in past visits has always been a wonderful experience. We visited the Beach Club and also spent time at St. Armand's. The restaurants in the area are easy to get to and always good meals. I was surprised at the difference this time in the noise level at the hotel. The outside bar was so loud it was hard to hear anyone at our table even though the place was not filled up to capacity. The floor we stayed on had yelling and partying well into the morning hours (3 am) and the pool was filled with teenagers who took over the place during the day and into the evening hours. It was not the typical sophisticated environment I had expected and hoped to experience.

The hotel staff was wonderful, we are not rich and they treated us just as nice as the millionaire next to us. They are personable, get to know your name, ask about your day and very helpful. The hotel itself was gorgeous and very clean and comfortable. The spa and spa services were wonderful and a treat that should not be passed up. The beach club, across the bay from the hotel was nice, full facilities to get cleaned up and dining. The food at the hotel and the pool were poor, for the price McDonald's tasted better. The pools were comfortable, the view was stunning, the water was clear on the calm days. There was very little to complain about because the positives far outweighed any negatives.

This was our first stay at a Ritz Carlton and they did not dissapoint. The service was the best.. From the checking to the check out this hotel is above the rest.. Going back in August for a couples get away!!!

This is the best Hotel Suite that I have ever stayed in. I loved having a walk in shower as well as a separate bath and shower. Very nice suite

Great for Shopping, Dining, Nightlife outdoor activities - this place offers it all.

It ws as good or better than other Ritz hotles that we visited. the staff mad it a little better than the rest.

The staff was very gracious and welcoming. Beautiful views of the bay. Although not located on the beach, a van to the R-C beach club departed on the hour and returned on the half-hour (The trip takes about five minutes). It was easy, clean and comfortable.