Bayou Oaks Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Bayou Oaks
Popular places to visit
Lido Beach
Nothing says holiday like spending a lazy day at Lido Beach, a popular beach in Sarasota. Wander the picturesque gardens or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
St. Armands Circle
Consider this area as a circular outdoor mall. Like any mall, you can shop, dine, browse or just people-watch. Unlike most malls, this one never closes to walkers.
Mall at University Town Center
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Mall at University Town Center during your trip to Sarasota. Attend a sporting event or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
See hungry sharks and delicate seahorses at this research aquarium that specializes in the sea life that flourishes on Florida’s central west coastline.
John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
You can spend time exploring the galleries in John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
See a world-class collection of orchids and tropical bromeliads and walk through peaceful mangrove and palm gardens in this botanical park.
Activities
Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour
Mangrove Tunnel & Manatee Kayak Eco-Tour
Bradenton: Anna Maria Island Guided Kayaking Manatee Tour
Sarasota - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour
Murder Mystery Trolley: Who Killed The Circus Queen?
Anna Maria Island & Bradenton Beach Parasailing Tour
Our pick of the best Bayou Oaks Hotel Deals
Hyatt Place Sarasota/Bradenton Airport
"Perfect and cozy"
Reviewed on 22 June 2026
Courtyard by Marriott Sarasota Bradenton Airport
"Everything was new and modern, very clean. Staff was very friendly and location was great. Breakfast was very good, coffee was excellent. I would highly recommend this hotel."
Reviewed on 7 June 2026
Kompose Boutique Hotel
"Best hotel shower ever! Water pressure was amazing! Rain style shower head. Full size pillows were great."
Reviewed on 22 June 2026
Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound
"We stopped by the front desk to let them know that our air conditioner was not working. By the time we got back from dinner, maintenance had already replaced the unit."
Reviewed on 22 June 2026
Golden Host Resort - Sarasota
"Rooms were not very clean, definitely a much older hotel. Wifi and TV went down for over 48 hours. They advertise the bar located in the same parking lot. Drinks were not very good. Definitely would not go back."
Reviewed on 22 June 2026
Tropical Beach Resorts
"Location is great for the beach and walking distance for amenities"
Reviewed on 22 June 2026
Our guide on where to stay in Bayou Oaks
Lido Key
Traverse a winding woodland path and spend the afternoon on this island’s secluded beaches before ending at a beachside bar to enjoy a spectacular sunset.
South Sarasota
While visiting South Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like The Landings and Coconuts Family Entertainment Center.
Central Sarasota
Gardens, art galleries and theatres highlight some of the noteworthy features of Central Sarasota. Make a stop by Sarasota Opera House or Marina Jack while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Downtown Sarasota
While visiting Downtown Sarasota, you might make a stop by sights like Sarasota Opera House and Florida Studio Theatre.
Palmer Ranch
While there might not be top attractions in Palmer Ranch, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club and Turtle Beach.
