Top 10 Short-Term Rentals in Sarasota, FL

Short-term rentals in Sarasota offer flexible housing solutions for vacationers, snowbirds, and professionals seeking temporary accommodations in Florida's Gulf Coast paradise. The Sarasota rental market has grown significantly, with over 8,000 active short-term rental properties registered in Sarasota County as of October 2024, according to Sarasota County Tax Collector. Whether you need a beachfront condo for a week or a furnished apartment for three months, Sarasota provides diverse options across different price points and locations. This guide covers pricing, top properties, and essential booking information to help you find the perfect short-term rental in Sarasota. Understanding the local market ensures you secure quality accommodations that match your budget and lifestyle needs.

2. Marina Towers

Located at Gulfstream Avenue in downtown Sarasota's bayfront, Marina Towers offers one and two-bedroom condos from $3,800 monthly. Units range from 950 to 1,400 square feet with updated interiors and water views. Walking distance to restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions.

The building provides secured entry, a fitness room, and dock access. Monthly parking included. All utilities except electricity are covered in rent. Cats only with $250 deposit. Minimum stay is 90 days. 

3. 1350 Main Apartments

Found at 1350 Main Street in the heart of downtown, this modern complex offers studio to two-bedroom apartments from $5,500 monthly. Units span 600 to 1,100 square feet with contemporary finishes and stainless steel appliances. Steps away from Main Street dining and entertainment.

Amenities include a rooftop terrace, a fitness center, bike storage, and controlled access. One parking space is included per unit. Water and trash are included in the rent. Dogs and cats are allowed with $400 deposit and $50 monthly pet rent with a minimum 3-month lease.

4. The Mark Luxury Apartments

Positioned at 111 S Pineapple Avenue in downtown Sarasota, The Mark features one and two-bedroom luxury rentals starting at $3,900 monthly. Properties range from 850 to 1,350 square feet with high-end finishes and private balconies. Within walking distance to the Sarasota Opera House and theaters.

The building offers a resort-style pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, clubhouse, and package lockers. Covered parking is available for $150 monthly. Utilities tenant responsibility. Pets under 75 pounds accepted with $500 deposit. Flexible lease terms of 60 days are available.



5. The Vue

Found at 1445 Second Street in downtown's residential area, The Vue offers one and two-bedroom apartments starting at $2,600 monthly. Units range from 800 to 1,250 square feet with stainless appliances and walk-in closets. Quick access to US 41 and downtown attractions.

The property features a pool with a sundeck, a fitness facility, a business center, and a pet play area. Covered parking available. All utilities except electric are included. Two pets allowed with a combined weight under 100 pounds and $350 deposit each. Short-term leases of 3 months are accepted.

6. Aqua Beachside Resort Residences

Positioned at 280 Golden Gate Point near downtown and Lido Beach, Aqua provides furnished studios to two-bedroom condos from $3,900 monthly. Properties offer 650 to 1,300 square feet with full kitchens and beach views. Less than 2 miles from downtown Sarasota's Main Street.

Resort amenities include a heated pool, hot tub, tiki bar, and direct beach access. One parking space per unit. Cable and water are included in the rent. No pets permitted. Minimum 30-day stay required.

7. Sapphire Shores Luxury Homes

Found in the Sapphire Shores neighborhood near downtown, these three-bedroom houses rent from $5,200 monthly. Properties offer 2,000 to 2,800 square feet with private pools and updated interiors. Many homes feature water views of Sarasota Bay.

Individual properties are managed by different owners with varying policies. Most include lawn care and pool maintenance. Utilities tenant responsibility. Pets negotiable per owner.

8. Towles Court Home Rentals

Found at various addresses on Adams Lane and Morrill Street near downtown, these renovated cottages offer one-bedroom units from $1,800 monthly. Properties provide 500 to 750 square feet with artistic character and outdoor spaces. Walking distance to Southside Village shops and restaurants.

Individual cottage rentals with varying amenities and furnishing styles. Most include utilities. Limited parking is available. Pet policies vary by owner. Artistic community atmosphere with galleries and studios. Short-term leases of 60 days are accepted.

9. Burns Court Historic Bungalows

Located throughout the Burns Court historic district near downtown, these one and two-bedroom bungalows rent from $2,400 to $3,800 monthly. Properties offer 700 to 1,100 square feet with original hardwood floors and modern updates. Steps from Selby Gardens and downtown bayfront.

Individual homeowner rentals with diverse furnishing and amenity offerings. Most include yard maintenance. Utilities tenant responsibility. Pet policies negotiable. Charming historic neighborhood with tree-lined streets. Minimum 3-month stays are typical.



10. Plaza at Five Points District

Positioned throughout the Five Points neighborhood east of downtown, these one and two-bedroom apartments range from $1,900 to $2,800 monthly. Units offer 650 to 1,100 square feet in various small complexes. Walking distance to local restaurants and shops.

Multiple property owners with different amenity packages. Most include parking and basic appliances. Utilities are typically not included. Pet-friendly options are available with deposits ranging $250 to $400. Minimum 3-month leases are common.

Explore Sarasota neighborhoods through complete area guide to learn more about this upscale community. 

How Much Do Short-Term Rentals Cost in Sarasota

Short-term rentals in Sarasota range from $1,200 to $15,000 per month depending on location, property type, and season. The average nightly rate for vacation rentals sits at $285 during peak season (January through April) and drops to $180 during summer months (May through August), based on data from Zillow rental market. 

Furnished rentals in Sarasota typically offer better value, with one-bedroom apartments starting at $1,788 per month. Budget-conscious travelers can find studio apartments in mainland Sarasota for $1,200 to $1,800 monthly. Mid-range two-bedroom condos in residential areas cost between $2,800 and $4,500 per month. The Sarasota vacation rentals market experiences significant price fluctuations based on tourist seasons and local events.

What to Know Before Booking Short-Term Rentals in Sarasota

Booking short-term rentals in Sarasota requires understanding local policies, fees, and property rules before committing to a lease. Florida law defines short-term rentals as properties rented for less than 6 months.

Read rental agreements carefully to understand cancellation policies, damage deposit terms, and maintenance responsibilities. Verify what furniture, kitchenware, and linens are included in furnished units. Request photos of actual units rather than model apartments when possible.

Minimum Stay Requirements

Most short-term rentals enforce minimum stay periods ranging from 7 to 90 days. Monthly rentals in Sarasota require 30-day commitments and often extend to 90 days during the peak winter season. Luxury condos and apartment complexes typically require a 60- to 90-day minimum stay year-round. Some properties reduce minimum stays during the summer off-season to attract tenants. 

Pet Policies and Fees

Pet-friendly short-term rentals in Sarasota typically allow one or two pets, with weight limits ranging from 25 to 50 pounds. Non-refundable pet fees range from $250 to $500 per animal. Some properties charge a monthly pet rent of $50 to $100 in addition to deposits.

Breed restrictions commonly exclude pit bulls, rottweilers, and other breeds deemed aggressive. Condominiums often have stricter pet policies than single-family homes. Request written pet policies and fee structures before booking.

Parking and Amenities

Most Sarasota vacation rentals include one assigned parking space. Beachfront properties often provide covered or garage parking. Street parking on Bid Key and in downtown areas requires permits during peak season.

Standard amenities in furnished rentals include full kitchens, washer-dryer units, wifi, and cable television. Luxury properties add pools, fitness centers, and concierge services. Beach equipment, bicycles, and kayaks are sometimes provided in vacation-focused rentals.

Conclusion

Short-term rentals in Sarasota provide flexible housing solutions across diverse neighborhoods and price points for any length of stay. From budget-friendly mainland apartments to luxurious beachfront condos, the market offers options for every traveler and temporary resident. Understanding seasonal pricing, minimum stay requirements, and property amenities ensures you select the right rental for your needs. Research properties thoroughly using trusted platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Redfin to compare current availability and rates.

When you're ready to move into your Sarasota vacation rental, contact Happy Helpers Moving to get a free moving quote today. They provide professional, reliable moving services to make your transition seamless and stress-free throughout Sarasota County.