Grassy lawns, tropical plants, and tall palms surround the grounds at the Sandpiper Inn. The garden has a mossy stone fountain and a little lagoon-like pond. The small outdoor pool area is bordered by trees and a wall painted with a beach scene. An outdoor patio area has two gas barbecue grills, and tables and chairs where guests can have dinner. A cleared path cuts through sand grass and leads down to the quiet beach, where guests can take in views of the gulf waters from loungers or turquoise Adirondack chairs.

This hotel sits on a quiet stretch of sandy beach in a primarily residential area. There are a few restaurants nearby, including a cafe within a two-minute walk, where guests can go for breakfast. It’s about a 15-minute drive to St. Armand’s Circle, an outdoor shopping area with lots of restaurants. Downtown Sarasota, Siesta Key, and Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport are about a 30-minute drive away.

The 11 rooms at the Sandpiper Inn have a beach vibe, with furnishings like colorful floral living room sets, bamboo tables and chairs, and overhead fans. Most rooms have full kitchens with refrigerators, stoves, microwaves, and appliances including coffeemakers, toasters, and blenders. Cookware and dishware are provided, and most kitchens also have dishwashers. Most rooms have flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms vary; some have shower/tub combos, while renovated bathrooms have pretty tile walk-in showers. All rooms have patios furnished with tables and chairs, and lounge chairs. 

Direct access to a sandy beach is the stand-out feature at the Sandpiper Inn. There are lounge chairs around the property, a picnic shelter, and gas grills for outdoor cooking. The Sandpiper's small pool offers just enough room for a quick dip. There’s also a shuffleboard court. Laundry facilities are available for a fee, and each room gets one parking space. Small dogs are allowed in some of the rooms. Wi-Fi is free throughout.