Sarasota hotel recommendations
 

I'm taking my 80 year old mother to Sarasota for a long weekend in early May,for a quick get away and to visit with my nieces, who are in college there. When I've gone in the past, I stayed at the Springhill Suites by the airport (since it was close to their college) but I'm thinking something on the beach might be better for my mother. Any suggestions --- for a reasonably priced quiet place ($120/night or lower)?

I've upped the budget to $175-200/night!

Try Lido Key. Only minutes drive to New College and right on a nice beach.

http://www.lidokey.net/accommodations.shtml

Any input on the Palm Bay Club?

Now you're talikng about my island - Siesta Key :-)

Palm Bay Club is very nice and on the best beach in the area, but it will be a drive to New College. Depending on the traffic it can be 10-15 minutes to mainland and another 20-30 minutes to New College.

The club is located half way between 2 commercial areas on Siesta, the village and the south bridge area so any restaurant/shopping excursion will require a (very)short, but necessary drive.

Sunsets are great!!! :-D

Many thanks,AAFF! I always feel better with some validation outside of Trip Advisor! We've booked a room at Palm Bay and the distance from New College shouldn't be a problem. When I come to visit, the girls generally come and stay with me since they enjoy the hotel stays (and all the free meals from their aunt)!