Visiting Florida in September from England have visited FL before but we have never stayed in the Sarasota Area.

We (Me & Girlfriend)are considering staying at the Helmsley Sandcastle Resort.
If anyone has stayed at the hotel or recently visited the area I would like to hear your opinions.

Thanks

Mike

Hi
I stayed at the Helmsley Sandcastle Resort last year. It is located on the beach close to Armand Circle where you will find restaurants and shops. The hotel is nothing special. I will say it's an upgraded beach motel. If you are looking for something a little bit more special in sarasota- try the Resort on Longboat Key or the Colony on Longboat Key.

We have gone to the Sarasota area for vacation for nearly 20 years. We have a timeshare on Longboat Key. I agree with the previous post that you will be happy on Longboat Key at those hotels. You could do some research on the internet about Longboat Key and Siesta Key for other suggestions on where to stay. If I can be of more help, let me know.

A few comments re:Helmsley Sandcastle's neighborhood: It's not the chi-chi Longboat set, by a long shot. However, the south Lido area is well-liked by people who go there not only for convenience to St. ARmand's but also for being at some distance from a lot of the Siesta Key brou-ha-ha, e.g. for spring break, etc. All the hotels along South Lido with the Helmsley have their own beachs, although I don't know if they have their own lifeguards (a consideration because the closer you get to the Pass at the far south point of Lido, the more there can be strong currents).

There is a lovely nature walk along the mangrove inlets not far from the hotel, and South Lido park is a charming beach/park (no lifeguards, though) at the end of the point. Not crazy about it on weekends when the smell of barbecue lighter and the roar of boom boxes is a bit much, lots of families spend Sat. and Sun. there, but during the week, winter or summer, it's a great walk along the shore.

If you want the young, single scene you want Siesta. If you want the young, upscale, manicured resort scene, you want Longboat. If you want semi-quiet lodgings very close to great shopping and restaurants, then the Helmsley's location is fine.

Sorry I can say nothing about the hotel itself -- never been inside. But there are several other hotels and timeshares on either side. None are as upscale as Longboat, but all servicable.

Stayed at the Helmsley 2 years ago on a self-booked 2-centre trip from Glasgow. Good, clean, typical beachfront hotel.
Sarasota was well worth the visit - plenty to do and see, but hey, isn't all Florida like that to us from over here!!

There are also some very expensive shops and restaraunts - with a clientele to suit!!

There are numerous hotels better than the Helmsley - it all depends on your budget - I prefer to use mine to eat and drink, not for 5 star beds!!
Have a great trip.
Brian