Best Rooftop Bars in Sarasota and What to Order

If you are planning a luxurious Florida getaway, Lido Key is the perfect destination. You’ll be able to experience all the fun in the sun you’d expect from the Sunshine State, but Lido Key provides a special blend of luxury and comfort that you simply can’t find anywhere else. Our vacation rentals on Lido Key are designed with you in mind and can accommodate groups of all sizes, and the attention to details will simply leave you in awe.

One of the best things about our Lido Key rentals is the close proximity to downtown Sarasota. Just a 10-minute drive will take you right into the city or even more attractions and restaurants for your whole group to enjoy. Sarasota is an incredible city to experience a rooftop bar. Head out for a drink with your friends or romantic evening with your sweetheart while you overlook the city. Here are a few of our favorite rooftop bars in Sarasota, as well as what you should order when you get there.

beach bar
via LKV Dropbox

The Sarasota Skyline

Once you find your perfect Sarasota rooftop bar, you’ll have an ideal view of the Sarasota skyline. No matter what time of the day or night you are visiting, you’ll have a picture-perfect view to snap for Instagram or to simply remember your travels by. The skyline has been changing for decades now, and it doesn’t appear to be stopping anytime soon. However, that’s great for visitors, as you’ll get a brand-new view every time!

Over the years, highlights of the skyline have included hotels, office buildings, City Hall, and more. You’ll be able to see the influence of Charles Ringling, who was a staple in the community ever since the 1920s. You’ll see famous buildings like the Orange Blossom Tower and the Plaza at Five Points, as well as countless other restaurants, shops, and attractions.

girlfriends in sarasota
via LKV Dropbox

Rooftop Bars

There are plenty of rooftop bars in the Sarasota area, but there are definitely a few that stand out from the rest. One of the fan favorites is also one of the first: the Westin. The gorgeous view from this rooftop bar will give you a stunning shot of the Gulf of Mexico, and there are no other buildings in the way to impede your view. The casually elegant atmosphere is perfect for grabbing a drink with friends or your significant other. They are open for lunch and dinner, so you can also dine here while you enjoy the view. The Westin is located at 100 Marina View Drive.

Another great option is Sage, the only rooftop bar you’ll find that’s not attached to a hotel. Inside, you’ll find an elegant venue that is modern while still honoring its heritage. Head up to the roof to experience a 360° view of downtown while enjoying the seasonal menu and unique cocktails. Sage is located at 1216 1st Street.

Another of the most popular rooftop bars in Sarasota is at Art Ovation Hotel. This bar combines the beautiful view of Sarasota with incredible service, fun music, and beautifully crafted cocktails. Come as you are to grab a meal or just a drink, all the while knowing that you are supporting local artists and saving the planet, as the bar is full of vibrant artwork and serves their cocktails in reusable plastic glasses. Art Ovation Hotel is located at 1255 North Palm Avenue.

This is just a handful of the most popular rooftop bars in Sarasota, but there are plenty more to choose from. You can visit Daiquiri Deck for a laid-back atmosphere, or head to Shore Diner for a drink with an incredible view. No matter where you pick, you really can’t go wrong!

toasting cocktails
via LKV Dropbox

What to Order

Sarasota and the surrounding area puts a strong emphasis on using fresh and local ingredients in their cuisine, and the cocktails are no different. Luckily, there’s a little something for everyone no matter which rooftop bar you choose to visit. Each of these bars is able to whip up your favorite classic cocktail like a Long Island Iced Tea or a Manhattan, but they each also have their own unique selections for you to sample. For instance, the Art Ovation Hotel has a uniquely crafted cocktail menu. Try the Curtain Call, made with vodka, lemon juice, and lavender syrup, or sample the Ghostnote, a combination of Patron, Averna, lemon juice, orgeat, and peach bitters. 

While you’re in Florida, maybe you’ll want to sample a Florida inspired cocktail. Try requesting a Key Lime Martini, a Florida take on the classic cocktail. This drink contains a healthy serving of vodka alongside Key lime juice, cream of coconut, and pineapple juice. Florida is known for its oranges, so maybe you’ll enjoy a fuzzy navel, made with peach Schnapps and fresh-squeezed orange juice. Of course, any of your favorite cocktails can be made as a virgin variety if you just want it for the taste.

Luxury Vacation Rentals with Rooftop Decks

Front of the Ocean View rental

Beach Views

Sarasota is just a short drive from Lido Key, only about 10 minutes away. However, sometimes you just feel like hanging out in your own space. Luckily, our Lido Key Rentals are the perfect place to enjoy the view from your very own rooftop deck. Take our Beach Views rental. With 7 bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms, this home is perfect for huge groups, and there’s plenty of space for everyone outside. Your rooftop deck will give you some of the best views of the Key and the Gulf of Mexico, as well as allowing you to look over your own backyard, complete with private heated pool, jacuzzi spa, and plenty of space for everyone to enjoy.


Pool view of The Shore House

The Shore House

Another of our popular rentals, the Shore House, is a 7 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom paradise that suits 20+ guests. Your incredible private balcony overlooks your pool and patio, and you even have a view of the St. Armands Circle neighborhood. The lush natural landscaping is the pinnacle of relaxation, and there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy an evening cocktail with a view.

Book Your Luxury Vacation Rental

Lido Key is a cozy island vacation getaway and is the place to be with some of the most incredible vacation rentals areas as part of our Lido Key property management company. For more information about Lido Key amenities, the surrounding area, and our full range of luxury homes, contact us today!

No matter which of our luxury Lido Key vacation rentals you choose to stay in, you will have a personal relationship with our property managers. No request is too big or small for our team, so if you have a question about your rental or just want to know where to go for dinner, we can handle it! Each of our properties is designed with our guests in mind and has been personally and individually decorated to provide you with the ultimate combination of luxury and comfort. You’ll get the coastal luxury you want from a Florida vacation while still feeling cozy and relaxed in your own space.

No detail has been spared, so you’ll find incredible features from the appliances to the baseboards. Once you do head out of the house, you’re just a short walk from the beach and attractions and just a 10-minute drive from Sarasota. Between the luxurious accommodations, picturesque destination, and exemplary services, you may never want to leave!

We are proud to be the premier luxury rental management company in Lido Key, and we can’t wait to help you plan your dream getaway. For more information on the Sarasota and Lido Key areas, as well as all of our vacation rentals on Lido Key, contact us today!

Featured Rentals

The Big Top

Step into luxury at this Absolutely Gorgeous 3-level Lido Key Coastal Home! Elevator service, vaulted ceilings, and 6 bedrooms, 5 with private en suite baths, make this retreat truly exceptional. Enjoy balconies off the Master Bedroom and a shared elevated balcony on the 3rd level with views of St. Armand’s Circle. A short bike ride to Lido Key Beach and a stroll to St. Armand’s Circle, this home offers unparalleled convenience.

The Pink Flamingo

Escape to The Pink Flamingo, where the allure of old Florida meets modern chicness just moments from Lido Key Beach! This haven boasts a fabulous backyard with a private pool and ample outdoor entertainment space. The living area exudes comfort and luxury, leading to a formal dining room for six. Retreat to the Primary bedroom with adorable décor and an ensuite bathroom, while the second bedroom mirrors the charm.