Beachpoint Cottages

With colorful tropical gardens and just nine cottages, the Beachpoint Resort Cottages encourage fun and relaxation, albeit in a in low-key, no-frills sort of way. The cottages (except Cottage 303) are set in a sprawling garden and patio area, an eclectic, artsy space dotted with sculptures by local artists and quirky beach-house signs like "Living on Island Time," and "You can shake the sand from your shoes but it never leaves your soul." There are plenty of chairs where guests lounge shaded by tropical trees, and the fire pit, grill area with tiki umbrella tables, and a large thatched roof "Tiki Hut" with porch swings and a dining table are all popular spots for outdoor dining, drinking, and socializing. The cottages and accessories are painted brightly, and there's a coziness to the Beachpoint, with its simple plastic chairs and glass outdoor tables; channeling Jimmy Buffett and the Grateful Dead, it feels a bit like the psychedelic version of a normal backyard. The cottages attract a range of travelers, including families and groups of friends.

The Beachpoint is located just off Siesta Beach in an area accessible by bike or foot (although you can also drive in and park your car at the cottages). The beach is 100 yards away, and the hotel leaves a few (slightly aged) lounge chairs, umbrellas, beach carts, and sand toys by the entrance for guests to borrow. "Downtown" Siesta Key, a small commercial strip, is a short walk from the cottages, and has a few restaurants and shops, as well as a grocery store. Siesta Key is about a 30-minute drive from the Sarasota airport, but, during the high season, traffic can be heavy entering and leaving the key.

The Beachpoint cottages are small beach bungalows with one or two bedrooms, each uniquely designed by the owners; some are standalone buildings, while other share walls. Each has a full kitchen (with an oven, four-burner stove, refrigerator, and all the requisite dishware and utensils), a lounge/living room area, and separate bedrooms. The appliances aren't new -- some of the ovens, in particular, are showing their wear and could use a deep clean -- but everything is functional and in good working condition. Movability and level of comfort will depend on the cottage, but none is uncomfortably small. Decor is quirky and cozy, and some cottages have been more recently renovated than others. Bathrooms are simple and clean, some with full shower/tub combinations. Some cottages have space for inflatable beds or include Murphy beds, guaranteeing room for larger groups and families.

Despite the relaxing vibe, it'd be a stretch to call the Beachpoint Cottages a resort, considering its lack of amenities. Self-sufficient guests will find it a fun, relaxed place to lounge and cook, and will appreciate having access to communal spaces like the grill patio, fire pit, and tiki hut for outdoor lounging and dining. The hotel offers affordable bike and kayak rentals, and there are (slightly tired-looking) chairs, umbrellas, and sand toys by the beach entrance for guests to borrow. The Beachpoint does offer free Wi-Fi, and there are laundry facilities on-site. The beach -- rated one of the best in Florida -- is just a few steps away.