Relax & Recharge at the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa

By Kelly Stilwell

For someone who travels a lot, it’s nice to be able to get away from it all without having to spend hours in airports and on planes. In fact, this trip had a drive time of about 15 minutes. It’s hard to believe there is a resort so close to me now, and the fact that it’s part of my favorite hotel brand makes it even better.

With a perfect spot along the Manatee River, The Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa opened its doors just about a year ago. Boasting 252 rooms, a beautiful spa, two indoor restaurants, and three swimming pools, the resort has both locals and visitors flocking to it.

An easy 30-minute drive from Sarasota International Airport and under an hour from Tampa International Airport, this property is popular for those who want a quieter resort experience that’s not too far from local activities.

I was excited to spend a few days at the resort with my husband. We had actually been to the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa a couple of times before, once to their rooftop restaurant, and once to an event, but we had never spent the night. After arriving, check-in was a breeze, and we were in our room relaxing just a few minutes later.

Our King room was large, with a wonderfully comfortable bed, and plenty of extra seating. We had a flat-screen TV, mini fridge, microwave, and coffeemaker. Robes hung in the closet above slippers. The bath area was a good size with plenty of towels. There was a nice workspace with a comfortable chair, great for catching up on work. I had no plans of doing that on this trip as I was there to relax and check out the amenities. My first stop would be the Beach Club at Riviera Dunes.

As the Beach Club is a few minutes’ walk from the main hotel, a golf cart transports guests to that area. The zero-entry pool is lovely (one of three pools), with a view of the Manatee River and a large number of loungers and a handful of cabanas. My husband and I grabbed a couple of chairs and settled in to relax for the afternoon. Guests around us were playing pickleball and chess on the giant chessboard. I had a book and a nap in mind.

If you’re looking for even more relaxation, head to the Revive Spa where you can experience their signature massages, facials, and other body treatments. Looking for a wellness getaway? The Spa offers complimentary sunrise yoga and Pilates classes. I took a class while I was there, and it’s a great way to start the day. You can also head to the fitness center to get in a workout or do laps in the designated lap pool.

When hunger strikes, you have choices right on site. For lunch, The Social offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We enjoyed a couple of meals there and can wholeheartedly recommend the Social Burger with bacon jam, though the yellow grouper was also calling my name! If you want to eat out by the pool, visit the Revive Pool Bar and choose from lobster bites, chicken wings, and a few other starters. Five salad choices include a Bibimbap Tuna Poke Bowl. For entrees, the list is long with choices like Cubanitos and Revive Tacos.

If you’re looking for an upscale meal for dinner, head up to the top floor to Oyster River Rooftop, where the sunset views are spectacular. Seafood lovers will want to try everything, which just isn’t possible with so many options, though I did give it a college try! Begin with the bread service as it’s not your typical bread basket and is so delicious. We loved the creamy burrata with crostini and the Caesar salad for starters. If you’re splurging, try the whipped ricotta caviar dip followed by one of the raw bar sampler towers. They are all heavenly! Main course options include sea bass, lobster and clam linguine, and lobster thermidor, but meat eaters have choices, too, with several Wagyu beef choices. Don’t forget to try one of the desserts or signature cocktails.

If you happen to be Platinum, Titanium, or Ambassador Elite Marriott Bonvoy Member, visit the M Club Lounge for a quiet place to work, with snacks and drinks available throughout the day.

Finally, if you’re visiting from out of town, this area has a lot to do:

Selby Gardens: It was named one of Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places in 2024
The Ringling: Spend a whole day exploring the Museum of Art, Circus Museum, Ca’ d’Zan, Bayfront Gardens, and see a show at the historic Asolo Theater.
Mote SEA: The world-class “Science Education Aquarium” is coming soon.
Stunning Beaches: Choose from Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, Siesta Key, and more.
Dolphin Tours: Coordinated right through the resort, these boat tours let you see dolphins in the wild.

In addition, the property boasts its own huge green space where they host events like Taste and Toast, celebrating local culinary and beverages paired with a Kentucky Derby watch party. Check the website when you book so you don’t miss a thing.

The Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa is perfect for a vacation or staycation, so make your reservation and check it out. Be sure to catch the sunset. Maybe I’ll see you there, especially if the Kentucky Derby Party becomes an annual event. I’m already planning my fascinator.