If locals mean true high-end resort feel, The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is the top luxury pick right now, especially if you want a beachfront stay with polished service and a full resort setup. The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort · openai/gpt-5.4
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is still a strong local recommendation if you want classic luxury downtown, but the not directly on the beach setup matters to some people. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota · openai/gpt-5.4
Lido Beach Resort comes up when locals want beachfront convenience near St. Armands; it’s easy and well-located but less luxurious than St. Regis or Ritz. Lido Beach Resort · openai/gpt-5.4