The Westin Sarasota

Few wedding venues in Florida strike the balance between sleek, city-inspired design and sweeping waterfront views quite like The Westin Sarasota. Rising 18 stories above the downtown arts district and hugging the edge of Sarasota Bay, this hotel captures a kind of understated elegance that’s hard to replicate. With floor-to-ceiling glass, rooftop fire features, and ballrooms that glow beneath modern chandeliers, the property creates a canvas for weddings that feel simultaneously luxurious and relaxed.

The location alone makes it a standout—steps from the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, just minutes to Siesta Key, and surrounded by galleries and coastal charm. But what elevates it into a truly top-tier venue is how seamlessly it supports multi-day events, from rooftop ceremonies to ballroom receptions, cocktail parties, and post-wedding brunches.

Event Spaces for Every Stage

The Westin Sarasota offers more than 26,000 square feet of event space, which can be mixed and matched to host gatherings of all sizes.

• Hickory Ballroom – At 5,258 square feet, this is the crown jewel of the hotel’s interior venues. With soaring ceilings, shimmering light fixtures, and floor-to-ceiling windows, it seats up to 350 guests for dinner or 500 for a standing reception. The pre-function area allows for effortless transitions between ceremony, cocktails, and celebration.
• Sycamore Ballroom – A touch smaller at 4,559 square feet, this ballroom features warm finishes and bayfront views. It’s a great fit for medium-sized receptions or large rehearsal dinners, accommodating up to 300 guests.
• Roof Deck – The real showstopper. Located on the 19th floor, this open-air venue offers panoramic views of the bay, the Gulf, and the downtown skyline. With room for 150 guests, it’s ideal for ceremonies, sunset cocktail hours, or even morning-after brunches with a view. Fire features and modern lounge furniture lend a rooftop bar atmosphere with wedding-worthy elegance.
• Oak Room – A 1,200-square-foot option with natural light and minimalist design, this space is perfect for intimate gatherings, wedding brunches, or pre-wedding meetings.

Each space offers a blank slate with high-end finishes, allowing couples to bring in custom décor or keep things simple and let the setting do the work.

Wedding Services & Planning

The Westin Sarasota’s event team is known for its flexibility, calm presence, and ability to pivot quickly when needed. Whether you’re designing a multi-day wedding weekend or a single standout evening, the staff is hands-on with logistics, layout planning, vendor coordination, and last-minute changes.

Services include:

• Customized wedding menus with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
• Health-conscious culinary planning that still feels indulgent
• Full bar packages with specialty cocktails and curated wine lists
• Assistance with rentals, linens, uplighting, and AV coordination
• Complimentary suite for the couple with bay views
• Indoor backup options for outdoor ceremonies in case of rain

The catering team focuses on sourcing fresh, local ingredients, and menus are designed to reflect the flavors of the Gulf Coast while maintaining the modern presentation expected of a four-diamond hotel.

Guest Experience & Amenities

With 255 guest rooms and suites, The Westin Sarasota can easily accommodate large groups, wedding parties, and out-of-town guests. Rooms include expansive windows, plush bedding, spa-style bathrooms, and thoughtful touches like robes, coffee makers, and mini-fridges.

On-site amenities include:

• A rooftop pool with views of Sarasota Bay and lounge seating
• A full-service spa offering massages, facials, and bridal beauty prep
• EVOQ Restaurant serving comfort food with a wellness twist—ideal for rehearsal dinners or casual group meals
• The Roof Bar and Eats, a top-floor bar with craft cocktails and light bites
• 24-hour fitness studio with Peloton bikes and yoga equipment
• Free bike rentals for guests to explore downtown and the bayfront
• Valet parking, accessible rooms, and a pet-friendly policy (up to two dogs per room)

Group rates and room blocks are available, and the staff works closely with couples to coordinate check-in experiences, welcome bags, and late-night guest requests.

What Couples and Guests Love

Couples often describe the rooftop as unforgettable, with sunset ceremonies and skyline views becoming the highlight of their weekend. The ballroom spaces are praised for their modern aesthetic—clean, elegant, and easy to personalize. The staff is frequently credited with delivering a stress-free experience, with planners by name receiving recognition for their warmth and attentiveness.

Guests rave about the food, the spa, and the ability to explore Sarasota without needing a car. Having art, music, shopping, and beaches all within minutes of the hotel turns every wedding into a full weekend getaway.