Opal collection hotels in Sarasota/Lido beach

Question

We’re Floridians living in the East coast, celebrating our anniversary, love the beach. Can’t decide which resort is better from the Opal Collection GULF COAST. ZOTA, OPAL SANDS, OR LIDO BEACH, e.g. beach front location, service, new or recently refurbished . We are also foodies and trying to find some good gourmet restaurants. We came across Michael’s on East, and Duvall’s seafood, any good? Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated. We are going to be there from Thursday August 21-Sunday 24. Hopefully no storms.

Thank you in advance

Answer

Congratulations on your anniversary! It sounds like you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway with a touch of luxury and great food. The Opal Collection offers three fantastic resorts in the Sarasota/Lido Beach area: Zota Beach Resort, Opal Sands Resort, and Lido Beach Resort. Each has its own charm and unique offerings, so let’s break them down for you to help you make the best choice.

1. Zota Beach Resort:

Zota Beach Resort is a newer property that opened in 2017, and it has quickly become a standout in the area. Located on Longboat Key, it offers a modern, contemporary aesthetic with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Zota has a more intimate, boutique feel compared to larger resorts, which is perfect for a special anniversary celebration. It’s not as crowded as some other places, and the beachfront location provides direct access to the beach.

In terms of amenities, Zota offers a beautiful pool, a spa, and great service. The resort is known for being well-maintained and stylish, with spacious rooms and ocean views. It's perfect if you want a more laid-back and intimate vibe but still want luxury amenities and beachfront access.

2. Opal Sands Resort:

Opal Sands Resort is another excellent option located on Clearwater Beach, about an hour's drive from Sarasota. It’s a bit more well-known and a larger resort compared to Zota, but it offers a great beach location with stunning views of the Gulf. The resort has recently been refurbished, offering a chic, modern style and top-tier amenities. Opal Sands has a large pool, direct beach access, and multiple dining options.

If you want to be right in the heart of things with more activities, a bustling atmosphere, and a bigger resort feel, Opal Sands is a great choice. It’s perfect if you're looking for a vibrant and lively atmosphere with the convenience of on-site dining and easy access to the beach.

3. Lido Beach Resort:

Lido Beach Resort is another well-established option on Lido Key. It offers a more traditional Florida beach resort experience with an excellent beachfront location. While it’s not as new as Zota or as modern as Opal Sands, Lido Beach Resort has recently gone through some renovations, making it a solid choice for a beach getaway. The resort offers spacious rooms, an oceanfront pool, and direct access to Lido Beach.

Lido Beach Resort has a more laid-back vibe, with easy access to both the beach and nearby Lido Key, which has shops, restaurants, and attractions. If you prefer a resort that is a little more relaxed, with a great location and good beachfront access, Lido Beach Resort could be the right choice for you.

Food Recommendations:

Michael’s On East: A well-known upscale restaurant in Sarasota, Michael's On East is perfect for foodies. The ambiance is elegant, and they offer a variety of gourmet dishes, including fresh seafood and steaks. The service is top-notch, and it's a great spot for a special celebration.
Duvall's Seafood: A great casual seafood option, Duvall’s is known for its fresh fish and seafood dishes. It’s a local favorite with a laid-back vibe, and it offers a great selection of oysters, crab cakes, and other seafood staples. It’s a good spot if you’re in the mood for seafood but don’t want to go overboard with formality.
The Beach Bistro: Located on Anna Maria Island, just a short drive from Sarasota, The Beach Bistro is another fantastic option for fine dining. It’s often ranked as one of the best in the area, known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative takes on classic dishes. If you’re looking for something more upscale, this is a great place to consider.
Selva Grill: Located in downtown Sarasota, Selva Grill is a trendy spot known for its Latin-inspired seafood and steaks. If you enjoy more contemporary, flavorful dishes with a twist, this could be a great choice for a night out.

Conclusion:

If you want a modern, boutique experience with a quieter, more intimate atmosphere, Zota Beach Resort would be a great choice.
If you prefer a more bustling resort with lots of amenities and dining options, Opal Sands Resort would be the way to go.
If you're looking for a more laid-back, traditional beach resort experience with good beach access and a relaxed vibe, Lido Beach Resort could be the best pick.

As for food, all of the restaurants you mentioned—Michael's On East and Duvall’s Seafood—are excellent choices, with Michael’s being more upscale and Duvall’s offering a great casual seafood experience. The Beach Bistro and Selva Grill are also worth considering for a special evening out.

With your anniversary coming up, you really can’t go wrong with any of these resorts. Just consider your preference for resort size, atmosphere, and amenities, and you’ll have a wonderful time in Sarasota!

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