A Remote Worker’s Guide to Cowork Spaces & Cafes in Sarasota

In the dynamic landscape of remote work, Sarasota offers a diverse range of spaces for digital nomads, remote workers and content creators seeking an inspiring environment. From modern cowork spaces and quiet libraries to cozy coffee shops and hotel rooftops, here's your guide to eight hot spots that just might enhance your productivity while enjoying the charm of Sarasota.

1. The Library:

Find a tranquil work haven at one of Sarasota County's many public libraries. The Selby Library, directly across Five Points Park in Downtown Sarasota, offers ample seating in a two-story building, a quiet atmosphere, reliable Wi-Fi, and many close-by coffee shops. It's an ideal spot for focused work sessions and even checking out some inspirational books. 

Additional area libraries open to the public include: Betty J Johnson North Sarasota; Gulf Gate Library; and the newly built Fruitville Library.

2. BOLD Cowork Sarasota:

Bold Cowork Sarasota is a dynamic apartment complex/co-working space in Downtown Sarasota, designed for the modern professional. With flexible membership options, it offers open and private workspaces, meeting rooms and a collaborative community. The vibrant atmosphere and high-speed Wi-Fi make it an ideal choice for freelancers and remote workers seeking an inspiring work environment. And when your business is ready to scale, you can opt for a private office space with added amenities. 

An added perk is its on-site cafe, Mōtōneko Cafe, conveniently located on the first floor. Grab a coffee, tea or snack in the morning, or a bowl of ramen for lunch, and enjoy a beer after work! Plus, the heated pool and fitness center access as a member certainly doesn't hurt. 

3. lab srq

Another Downtown Sarasota cowork space resides right on Main Street, with an industrial yet modern interior, set above Clasico restaurant. lab srq attracts digital nomads, entrepreneurs and professionals of any trade. Whether you're looking to work solo or collaborate with other creatives, this space is for anyone looking to get a good day's work in in a flexible yet fun workspace. Networking and collaboration among its members are highly encouraged here!

Members also enjoy coffee, snacks and drinks in the shared kitchen, soundproof phone booths, fully equipped conference rooms, high-speed internet, community events, workshops and more. 

4. The Reserve Retreat:

The Reserve offers an environment right out of the 1900s, great for both book nerds looking to get lost in a good read and digital nomads looking for a bit of peace and quiet. The cozy retreat is not only a coffee house and restaurant with an open-air courtyard, but also a boutique hotel. 

Offering a sophisticated setting within a historic Ringling building, out-of-towners wanting to get some work down while exploring Sarasota can book one of The Reserve's six unique rooms for rent (available for short- and long-term rentals). Only a few short step away, you can grab a cup of Java Dog coffee and dive into your to-do list!

5. The Westin Rooftop

If you're looking to visit Sarasota, but don't have enough paid time off to fully disconnect and vacation, book a room and take advantage of The Westin Sarasota's modern meeting facilities as well as the rooftop retreat. The Roof Bar and Eats offers panoramic views of Sarasota Bayfront and downtown with a drink menu and gourmet bites.  

The rooftop is also open to non-hotel guests, should you want to head up with your laptop and wrap up the week early for a happy hour drink and sunset. Maybe a bit unconventional, but who wouldn't want to log on and dial in on the top of a beautiful bayfront hotel? Your co-workers don't have to know you're lounging poolside while answering their emails, do they?

6. C'est La Vie:

Combine work with fresh air and a touch of French ambiance at C'est La Vie. This charming café and bistro on Main Street of Downtown Sarasota offers a large outdoor patio with umbrellas for shade to help see your laptop screen and stay cool. Order a delicious crepe or pastry to create the perfect setting for creative work sessions – you just may trick your clients or coworkers on a Zoom call into thinking you're on a sidewalk somewhere in France.

7. Perq Coffee Bar:

Perq Coffee Bar in Southside Village not only offers exceptional coffee and baked goods but also a welcoming, trendy space to log on and check emails in the morning. With comfortable seating, a trendy yet cozy setting and good Wi-Fi, it's a go-to spot for local freelancers and remote workers seeking caffeinated inspiration. Enjoy specialty coffee drinks and a selection of breakfast bites while enjoying the great natural light from its front windows. 

8. Regus

Located at the end of Main Street in Downtown Sarasota, above MADE restaurant, there is a new coworking space attracting like-minded professionals to join its vibrant space. Replete with breakout areas, networking events, sit-anywhere hot desks in an open-plan workplace and shared offices, Regus provides all the supplies and utilities you might need so you can focus on getting more done!