in my experience, it is difficult to find hotels that are actually right on the beach. once you step outside of the pool area, you are on the sand. the front desk was quick and friendly; the room service food was prompt and tasty. downsides to this hotel: it really is a motel as the room doors are along an... More

Excellent value and a well run hotel and one of the few in Sarasota that is on the beach, but recommend paying the substantial premium for a sea view room as some non sea view rooms looked directly onto the hotel's multi-storey car park and would have been dark. The sea view rooms were large and well fitted, although the... More

Not what we expected. After 2 weeks travelling Florida, our plan was a 4 star crash out with luxury. Maybe did not read the reviews correctly but we did eventually settle in and enjoy our stay. Asked for a move straight away as rooms were right beside kids pool , gift shop and rest rooms . They moved us over... More

This was the first time we stayed and can't wait to go back next year. The place was a little old but clean. The staff was excellent...could not hae been more helpful. The food and the bar tender were the best. So, if you want to walk out the door and be at the beach this is the place to... More

My second go around at staying the sandcastle. If you love sand , beach, hotel feet away from you, Great location and great service. Then you are at the right spot. Loaction location location. My rooms have always been very clean. Room service is quick and high quality. I have stayed all over florida. If you are looking for a... More

The Helmsley is right on the beach and has a great pool besides. The restaurant serves a delicious buffet breakfast also. The rooms are slightly dated but very clean and comfortable. This was my second stay here and I recommend it for the value and location.

We love this place and keep coming back for more. It's older but clean and right next door to the tiki hut! They have their own too, but who can resist roaming the beach! Try the breakfast buffet not too bad!!

We've been going to the Helmsley every year for the past five and originally found it about 13 years ago on an anniversary trip to FL. While I don't think the hotel has changed much in those 13 years, it's a great place to relax at reasonable rates. This past year we were upgraded from a poolside room to a... More

Great find and place especially for the spectacular views of sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Book a room with a sea view : well worth it. 2 heated swimming pools, poolside bar with unexpected treats at 4 pm. Good for kids: small shop selling basics. On site eating but lots of choice about a mile away. Easy to park.... More