An exciting new chapter of Sarasota’s luxury real estate market continues to be told as demand grows for residences that offer more than exceptional architecture and water views. Today’s most discerning buyers seek a complete lifestyle: effortless service, meaningful amenities, and exclusive privacy.
Two of the region’s most notable branded-residence offerings are The Residences at The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort and Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota represent two distinct, yet equally compelling, interpretations of elevated Gulf Coast living. One offers the serenity and ease of a private beachfront resort on Longboat Key; the other brings a globally recognized hospitality name to the center of downtown Sarasota’s cultural and social scene.
For a buyer considering a primary residence, seasonal retreat, or multigenerational legacy property, the ultimately personal decision hinges upon waking to the sound of Gulf waves and stepping onto the beach, or living within moments of Sarasota’s restaurants, galleries, performing arts, Bayfront parks, and vibrant downtown energy.
The Residences at The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort
Simply imagine the rare blend of private homeownership and five-star resort living. This residential enclave comprises 69 luxury residences that is spread across three low-rise buildings creating an intimate scale that feels appropriate for Longboat Key’s refined and naturally beautiful coastal setting.
The Residences at The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort appeal to buyers who value the openness and privacy of a coastal home, while appreciating the simplicity that comes with a professionally managed resort environment. Gulf-facing floor plans with an emphasis on indoor-outdoor design that allows the natural beauty of Longboat Key to become part of the daily experience. A generous terrace only adds to the appeal. Select lanai and penthouse residences offer private infinity-edge plunge pools and outdoor kitchens, creating an elevated entertaining environment with the comfort and ease of condominium ownership.
The service component completes the experience and anchors the lifestyle. Owners enjoy access to a private residents’ clubhouse, lounge and bar, dedicated pool and spa, wellness and fitness facilities, beach service, valet, concierge assistance, and the personalized attention synonymous with the St. Regis brand. Optional services such as housekeeping, in-residence dining, and spa arrangements make it especially appealing for seasonal residents and owners who prefer a seamless, lock-and-leave lifestyle.
Longboat Key: Resort Living with a Sense of Place
Longboat Key remains one of the most coveted addresses on Florida’s Gulf Coast because it offers a degree of calm and privacy that is increasingly difficult to find. Its wide beaches, quaint residential character, and proximity to Sarasota provide an ideal balance for those who want a waterfront retreat without feeling removed from the area’s cultural and culinary offerings.
The adjacent St. Regis Longboat Key Resort enriches the ownership experience with resort amenities that include private beach access, pools and cabanas, dining venues, an oceanfront spa, fitness facilities, and a 500,000-gallon saltwater lagoon. The property also features a winding river experience, an adults-only pool, and recreation designed for all interests.
For many owners, the greatest luxury convenience amplifies the lifestyle. A morning walk on the beach, an afternoon by the pool, a spa appointment, sunset from a private terrace, and dinner at the resort can all happen without ever having to get in the car. Imagine St. Armands Circle, downtown Sarasota, local marinas, golf, and the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport remain conveniently accessible.
The current range for condos at The Residence at The St. Regis is approximately $2.4 million to $13 million. The floor plan layout spanning roughly 1,556 to 5,320 square feet under air.
Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota
Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota introduces a new expression of luxury for buyers who are drawn to downtown Sarasota’s walkable, culturally rich lifestyle. Planned for Main Street and Pineapple Avenue, this highly-anticipated project will feature 86 private residences establishing the first Waldorf Astoria residential offering in Sarasota.
This residential design caters to those who enjoy close proximity to the energy of the city. The Sarasota Opera, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, galleries, boutique shopping, waterfront parks, fine dining, and the city’s active seasonal calendar each contribute to the broader lifestyle that makes downtown ownership so appealing.
The vision for Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota extends well beyond the individual home. Plans include more than 60,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities such as: the signature Peacock Alley social lounge, a residents’ library, private dining spaces, wellness and movement studios, spa treatment rooms, infrared saunas, steam rooms, a golf simulator, theater lounge, and guest suites, as well as dedicated areas for children and teens.
A New Downtown Landmark
One of the most striking planned features at Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota is an elevated garden and pool environment that promise to rival similar venues. Picture the approximately 25,000-square-foot of garden in the sky, with a resort-style pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a lawn for entertaining, shaded gathering areas, and a Florida style pavilion with a bar and grilling stations.
For buyers who enjoy entertaining, these amenities create more than a beautiful pool deck; they provide a true extension of the residence. A private dinner in the residents’ dining room, a casual gathering near the outdoor pavilion, a movie night in the theater lounge, or an afternoon using the golf simulator all add layers upon layers to the ownership experience.
The project is also intended to include a commercial component, with approximately 42,000 square feet of 'Class A' commercial space. That integration could further strengthen the convenience and vitality of its downtown setting.
The current range for condos at the Waldorf Astoria Residence is approximately $2.2 million to $15 million. The floor plan layout spanning roughly 1,800 to 5,200 square feet under air. Anticipated construction beginning late 2026 with completion in 2029.
Two Distinct Sarasota Lifestyles
Both properties reflect the continuing evolution of Sarasota’s luxury market, where a residence is increasingly defined by the life it makes possible. The St. Regis Longboat Key is ideal for the buyer who wants a private Gulf-front sanctuary with exceptional hospitality woven into daily life. Waldorf Astoria Residences Sarasota is designed for someone who wants to be at the heart of Sarasota’s cultural and culinary landscape without compromising on privacy, scale, or service.
The most compelling choice is not necessarily about which property is more luxurious; both are positioned at the highest end of the market. It is about which version of Sarasota feels most like home: the peaceful rhythm of Longboat Key and the Gulf, or the energy, convenience, and cultural richness of downtown Sarasota.
With my extensive experience selling in Sarasota and Longboat Key, please allow me to answer any questions you may have about the exciting communities and real estate. If you are interested in buying a home in the near future, please call me today at 941-266-0529 or search for properties in your desired neighborhood from my homepage.
