The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

This property is tired, poorly maintained and nowhere close to what anyone should expect from a Ritz-Carlton. The wallpaper was literally separating from the walls, the carpets were dirty and badly worn, and the room had a persistent musty smell. Even the telephone did not work. The condition of the room was bad enough, but the complete lack of responsiveness made the experience worse. When the air-conditioning stopped working, it was extremely difficult to get anyone to take ownership and resolve the problem. The managers appeared indifferent, and every attempt to speak with one was met with the same explanation: they were “in a meeting.” The general manager was never available. Luxury hospitality is not simply a recognizable name on the building. It requires well-maintained rooms, responsive management and people who genuinely care when something goes wrong. This hotel failed on all three. The physical condition is unacceptable, the service recovery is practically nonexistent, and management seems either unwilling or unable to address legitimate guest concerns. At Ritz-Carlton prices, guests should not have to chase management for functioning air-conditioning, a working telephone or a room that does not smell musty and look neglected. This property needs a major renovation and, just as importantly, a management team that understands accountability. Until both happen, I cannot recommend staying here.

I had such a wonderful stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. I stayed in a one-bedroom suite, and the room was lovely—spacious, comfortable, and beautifully appointed. The bathroom was especially large and updated, which made the suite feel even more luxurious. The service was truly top-notch from beginning to end. From check-in to room service and every staff member I encountered in between, everyone was incredibly attentive and welcoming. The real highlight of this resort, though, is the private Beach Club. The lounge chairs on the beach have the most comfortable cushions, and having servers come right down to you on the beach made it feel like such a treat. I also spent time lounging by the pool, which was just as relaxing. They really think of everything, from bringing you water to providing complimentary sunscreen and all of the little touches that make it easy to completely relax. I came to Sarasota a little early before heading to Anna Maria Island for a work retreat, and I am SO happy I did. I immediately told my husband that I want to come back with him so he can enjoy it too! I visited in September, which may have been a quieter time of year, because the resort and Beach Club were not crowded at all. It made the entire stay feel incredibly peaceful and relaxing. Such a beautiful property, wonderful service, and exactly the kind of getaway I was hoping for. I cannot wait to return one day!

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is one of those stays that works because the people do. Chad at valet sets the tone immediately. He’s quick, kind, and completely on top of it. You pull up, he has you handled, and you stop thinking about the car. That’s a better welcome than most hotels manage in an entire weekend. Charlie and Kavanaugh in the office keep that same standard going. They’re organized, responsive, and easy to deal with. Reservations, timing, little requests — they just take care of it without making a production out of anything. Jack Dusty is the restaurant to book. Fresh seafood, strong drinks, and a setting that actually feels like Sarasota instead of a generic hotel dining room. We liked it enough to go back everytime even if we aren’t staying here. Breakfast was outstanding!! Get the griddle cakes or French toast. The Beach Club on Lido Key is the highlight. Private beach, a beautiful pool, and a layout that makes a beach day feel effortless. It’s a short shuttle ride from the hotel and worth every minute of it. Like bowl at the beach is perfect! Comfortable rooms, strong service, great food, and a beach club that lives up to the name. We would stay again, and we’d look for Chad, Charlie, and Kavanaugh when we do.

Fantastic! Best Pina Coladas! Best Beach Club!

This review is multi-tiered. Stayed here to celebrate our anniversary and my birthday. We were serenaded with a birthday and anniversary song by a very talented hotel employee with a beautiful voice who also presented us with a bottle of champagne making the stay special. The property itself is showing signs of wear and in need of a refresh. We didn't find mold like some visitors claim, but the carpet in the hallways and the room in which we stayed showed signs of wear and the decor was dated. The staff in general were very nice. My only real issue with the stay relates to billing. My folio contained several overcharges, specifically valet parking for which I was charged 7 times for a 4 night stay. There was also a miscellaneous charge that remains unexplained and unresolved. While I did receive a credit for the parking overcharge, it is mostly offset by the unresolved fee, so I'm still owed a credit. I would expect similar errors at a lower cost hotel like La Quinta, not the Ritz Carlton. I travel extensively and always request a hard copy bill at checkout in addition to the emailed copy to ensure accuracy. In this case, doing so uncovered the billing discrepancies. I would suggest anyone staying at this property check their folio thoroughly to avoid what I went through.