- The casino closest to Sarasota, FL, is the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa.
- There are seven casinos within a one-hour drive of Sarasota.
- The casino with the most hotel rooms is the Biloxi Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.
The Gulf Coast offers beautiful beaches and great fishing. It also offers many gambling opportunities within a short drive of Sarasota.
There are six Indian casinos (and one commercial casino) within an hour’s drive of downtown Sarasota. All these casinos are located in Mississippi and Louisiana and consequently, require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test (taken within 72 hours) to enter. Mask wearing is also recommended inside the casinos.
Gamblers in Sarasota have their choice of large and small casinos. Those wanting all the bells and whistles should head to the two massive Hard Rocks in Mississippi. If a cozy casino is more your style, then try one of the smaller casinos in Louisiana.
Casinos On The Gulf Coast From Sarasota, FL
(All Distances Are As The Crow Flies)
1. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- Ocean FirstEntiny: Golden Moon Hotel & Casino, Harrah’s Gulfport, IP Casino Resort Spa, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi, Fair Grounds Race Course, Boomtown New Orleans, Treasure Chest.
- Year Round Fishing: Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder, Spanish Mackeral.
- Family Friendly Casinos: HR Biloxi, Harrah’s Gulfport, Hard Rock Biloxi.
- Best Restaurants: For seafood, try Ocean Catch in Biloxi or Bayview Inn in Waveland. For steak, try Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse at Beau Rivage. For fine dining, try Mignon or Crescent City Grill in New Orleans.
- Distance from Sarasota: 206 miles (3 hrs 24 mins).
- Has A Hotel: Yes (1,268 Rooms/Suites/Penthouse).
- Gambling Options: Slots, Table Games, Poker Room, Live Poker, High Limit Gaming, Smoking Section, Non-Smoking Gaming.
- Hours Of Operation: 9 AM – 5 AM (Daily)
- Contact: (813) 523–7450
In addition to having the closest casino to Sarasota, the Hard Rock Tampa is the largest casino in the Tampa Bay area. This Hard Rock is not to be confused with its bigger brothers in Florida (Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood). However, this Seminole Hard Rock is big enough for you and your friends.
beat the slotsWith over 2,100 slots and slot-like electronic table games, you are sure to find that next million dollar jackpot. If table games are your thing, then you will not be disappointed either. Blackjack, pai gow, baccarat, and various poker games are always on tap.
If you get hungry while playing, there are a dozen or so places to grab a quick bite or a full meal. Cooper’s Bar-B-Que was my favorite. But you can’t go wrong with any of the options.
One unique feature of the Hard Rock Tampa is the ability to take a behind-the-scenes tour of the WXTW-CD television studios, which are housed on the upper levels of the casino. The station broadcasts on digital channel 30.2 and cable channel 10.2.
By the way, if you like classic rock, then you need to visit the Hard Rock Tampa. The place is covered with classic rock memorabilia including guitars, costumes, posters, handwritten lyrics, and much more.
2. Beau Rivage Resort & Casino
- Ocean FirstEntiny: Golden Moon Hotel & Casino, Harbor Hills Casino, Harrah’s Gulfport, IP Casino Resort Spa, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi, Fair Grounds Race Course, Boomtown New Orleans, Treasure Chest.
- Year Round Fishing: Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder, Spanish Mackerel.
- Family Friendly Casinos: HR Biloxi, Harrah’s Gulfport, Hard Rock Biloxi.
- Best Restaurants: Mignon, Crescent City Grill (both in NOLA), Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse (Beau Rivage).
- Distance from Sarasota: 240 miles (4 hrs 1 min).
- Has A Hotel: Yes (953 Rooms/Suites).
- Gambling Options: Slots, Video Poker, Table Games, Poker Room (hold’em, omaha), High Limit Gaming, Smoking Section, Non-Smoking Gaming.
- Hours Of Operation: 8 AM – 5 AM (Daily)
- Contact: (888) 767–2121
The Beau Rivage may be the perfect casino. Located on the beach in Biloxi, Mississippi, the casino has it all. Great gaming, delicious food, fabulous entertainment, luxurious spa, first class golf, and a beautifully appointed room with a view of the Gulf of Mexico.
Great Reasons to Play Poker Online in AmericaOK, you might have to settle for a view of the Intercostal Waterway from your room and just drive to the beach. No big deal. Honestly, I did not notice a big difference in the views from my 12th floor room.
As for the casino itself, the Beau Rivage has every type of machine or table game you could want. And the best part is that you do not need to break the bank to play. I found $5 tables and machines throughout the casino.
If you played all day, you would want to refuel. The good news is that there are 12 restaurants to choose from. Buffet? Check. Steak? Check. Seafood? Check. Sushi? Check. Desserts? Check.
Finally, check their calendar of events as there are always top flight entertainers performing at the Beau Rivage.
3. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi
- Ocean FirstEntiny: Golden Moon Hotel & Casino, Harbor Hills Casino, Harrah’s Gulfport, IP Casino Resort Spa, Beau Rivage, Fair Grounds Race Course, Boomtown New Orleans, Treasure Chest.
- Year Round Fishing: Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder, Spanish Mackerel.
- Family Friendly Casinos: HR Biloxi, Harrah’s Gulfport, Hard Rock Biloxi.
- Best Restaurants: HR Biloxi and Harborside (both Hard Rock); Ocean Catch, Bubba’s Brewhouse, The Sea Level (all in Biloxi); Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse (Beau Rivage); Mignon and Crescent City Grill (both in NOLA).
- Distance from Sarasota: 243 miles (4 hrs 1 min).
- Has A Hotel: Yes (457 Rooms/Suites).
- Gambling Options: Slots, Video Poker, Table Games, Poker Room (hold’em, omaha), High Limit Gaming, Smoking Section, Non-Smoking Gaming.
- Hours Of Operation: 8 AM – 6 AM (Daily).
- Contact: (888) 588–4899
This gleaming guitar-shaped building opened in May 2021 and quickly became my favorite casino in Mississippi. The Hard Rock Biloxi features 500 slots and 40 table games, including blackjack, craps, roulette, and several poker variants.
When you need a break from gambling, enjoy a concert on the rooftop venue. The Hard Rock promises world-class musicians and spectacular Gulf views.
The Hard Rock Biloxi is also known for its live music offerings. You can catch local bands almost nightly at the resort’s bar and lounge areas.
If you get hungry, try the famous (and HUGE) chocolate cake at the onsite restaurant, Harborside. Or you can watch the chefs cook your seafood to order at BR Yacht Club.
The Hard Rock Biloxi is the smallest casino on my list, but it may be the best. Definitely worth the trip!
4. Golden Moon Hotel & Casino
- Ocean FirstEntity: Harbor Hills Casino, Harrah’s Gulfport, IP Casino Resort Spa, Beau Rivage, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi, Fair Grounds Race Course, Boomtown New Orleans, Treasure Chest.
- Year Round Fishing: Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder, Spanish Mackerel.
- Family Friendly Casinos: HR Biloxi, Harrah’s Gulfport, Hard Rock Biloxi.
- Best Restaurants: HR Biloxi and Harborside (both Hard Rock); Ocean Catch, Bubba’s Brewhouse, The Sea Level (all in Biloxi); Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse (Beau Rivage); Mignon and Crescent City Grill (both in NOLA).
- Distance from Sarasota: 202 miles (3 hrs 26 mins).
- Has A Hotel: Yes (250 Rooms/Suites).
- Gambling Options: Slots, Video Poker, Table Games, High Limit Gaming, Smoking Section, Non-Smoking Gaming.
- Hours Of Operation: 8 am – 4 am (Daily).
- Contact: (877) 876–7826
Located in D’Iberville, MS (between Biloxi and Gulfport), the Golden Moon offers slot machines, video poker, and table games 24/7. Try your luck at roulette, craps, blackjack, Texas Hold ’em, or 3 card poker.
While this casino may not be as large as its neighbors up the coast, it does offer all the same games along with friendly service and great promotions. So, stop in and see why the Golden Moon was named “Best of Mississippi” by global food & travel site The Infatuation.
casinos online free slotsThe Casino Pañaque (prounounced puh-NANK) is open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week and features nearly 700 slot machines. A membership is required to play live table games. Memberships are available free of charge at the casino cashier’s office.
The Casino Pañaque is operated by the Boomtown New Orleans Gaming & Hotel Company. Boomtown is a uniquely themed riverboat casino featuring more than 3000 slots and electronic table games, 60 live table games, 18 poker tables, high limit areas, and a variety of dining options.
By the way, if you are looking for a fun place to stay in New Orleans, consider staying at the sister property to Boomtown, the Marginy Hotel & Homeland Park.
Locals know the Fair Grounds Race Course as the home of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Did you know they also have quarter horse and Thoroughbred racing?
Actually, horse racing has been a Fair Grounds tradition since 1872. Today, the track operates nearly eight months out of the year (September through April). During those months, they operate a Las Vegas style casino with over 600 slot machines and electronic table games.
Membership is required to access the casino and race book. Annual memberships are available for $5.
9. IP Casino Resort Spa
- Ocean FirstEntity: Golden Moon Hotel & Casino, Harbor Hills Casino, Harrah’s Gulfport, Beau Rivage, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi, Fair Grounds Race Course, Boomtown New Orleans, Treasure Chest.
- Year Round Fishing: Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder, Spanish Mackerel.
- Family Friendly Casinos: HR Biloxi, Harbors Gulfport, Hard Rock Biloxi.
- Best Restaurants: IP Casino Resort Spa – Second Cup and Outback Steakhouse; other suggestions needed.
- Distance from Sarasota: 210 miles (3 hrs 36 mins).
- Has A Hotel: Yes (751 Rooms/Suites).
- Gambling Options: Slots, Video Poker, Table Games, High Limit Gaming, Poker Room, Sports Book, Smoking Section, Non-Smoking Gaming.
- Hours Of Operation: 8 AM – 5 AM (Daily).
- Contact: (888) IP-CASINO
The IP Casino is dwarfed by the mega casinos down the coast in Biloxi and Tunica. Nevertheless, the little IP packs quite a punch.
Slot players will appreciate the wide range of denominations and styles. Table games include blackjack, craps, roulette, and various poker games. They also spread daily poker tournaments and cash games.
After a recent renovation, the IP Casino now boasts a beautiful sports book. Catch all the action from around the country without leaving the Gulf Coast.
Speaking of action, the Second Cup is the place to be every morning from 8-10 am during the Daily Perk Brew, where guests can enjoy free gourmet coffee and pastries.
You do not have to gamble to enjoy the IP Casino. The outparcel buildings house several popular chain restaurants and live entertainment is offered regularly in the Center Stage Lounge.
10. Treasure Chest Plantation Casino
- Ocean FirstEntity: Golden Moon Hotel & Casino, Harbor Hills Casino, Harrah’s Gulfport, IP Casino Resort Spa, Beau Rivage, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi, Fair Grounds Race Course, Boomtown New Orleans.
- Year Round Fishing: Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Black Drum, Flounder, Spanish Mackerel.
- Family Friendly Casinos: HR Biloxi, Harbors Gulfport, Hard Rock Biloxi.
- Best Restaurants: Harbor View Cafe (Treasure Chest); other suggestions needed.
- Distance from Sarasota: 242 miles (4 hrs).
- Has A Hotel: Yes (210 Rooms).
- Gambling Options: Slots, Video Poker, Table Games, High Limit Gaming, Poker Room, Sports Book, Smoking Section, Non-Smoing Gaming.
- Hours Of Operation: 8 AM – 6 AM (Daily).
- Contact: (504) 348–2855
Located on a bluff overlooking Lake Pontchartrain, the Treasure Chest has been providing southern hospitality since 1977.
The Treasure Chest features over 750 slot machines, live table games, and a high limit room. Free valet parking and a convenient location just west of New Orleans make the Treasure Chest a must-visit casino.
Slot Apps That Pay Real Money - Play Slots to Win Real MoneyThe casino’s Harbor View Cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu includes salads, sandwiches, seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes, along with a full service cocktail bar.
If you plan on visiting New Orleans, the Treasure Chest makes a great base camp for your trip. The casino is only 25 minutes from the French Quarter and less than 30 minutes from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
2023 Best Casino Near Sarasota For…
- Overall Best Casino: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa – The granddaddy of hard rocks does not disappoint.
- Best Beach Casino: Beau Rivage – Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this MGM Property is spectacular.
- Best Small Casino: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi – Don’t let its size fool you. This place rocks!
- Most Affordable Casino: All of these casinos offer penny slots.
How Many Casinos Are Near Sarasota, FL?
There are seven casinos within a one-hour radius of downtown Sarasota. One commercial casino (IP Casino Resort Spa) and six Native American casinos. The nearest casino to Sarasota is the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa.
What Casino Is Near Sarasota Florida?
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa is the closest casino to Sarasota, Florida. Other casinos near Sarasota include the Hard Rock Casino Biloxi, Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, and the Golden Moon Hotel & Casino.
Are Casinos Open Near Sarasota, FL?
Yes, all of the casinos listed above are open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, except for the Fair Grounds Race Course, which closes for a few months each year after their spring festival.
Can You Gamble At The Casinos Near Sarasota, FL?
Of course, that’s why we love them. Each of the casinos near Sarasota offers slot machines and traditional table games. Some casinos even have poker rooms and high stakes gaming areas.
Do You Have To Wear A Mask In Casinos Near Sarasota?
As of March 2023, masks are no longer required in these casinos. However, individual casinos may have different policies, so it’s always a good idea to check beforehand or call ahead.
What Should I Bring When Visiting the Casinos Near Sarasota, FL?
First and foremost, bring your ID. Proof of Covid Vaccination or a Negative Test Result within 72 hours is also required. Finally, bring some extra money (just a suggestion).
Jansen Hutcheson has been playing poker for 20 years and writing about casino gambling and poker for the past 10 years. He enjoys sharing his expert knowledge with others through his articles.
Casinos in Sarasota FL?
best inclave casinoUnfortunately, there are no casinos in Sarasota. However, there are several casinos within a short drive from Sarasota, including the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa.
Can you smoke in the casinos near Sarasota, FL?
As of March 2023, smoking is allowed in most casinos near Sarasota, FL. However, individual casinos may have designated non-smoking areas. It's always a good idea to check with the casino directly or call ahead to confirm their smoking policy.
What time do the casinos near Sarasota close?
Most casinos near Sarasota are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, it's always a good idea to double-check the operating hours of the specific casino you plan to visit, as they may change holidays or for maintenance.
Is there a dress code at the casinos near Sarasota, FL?
No, there is generally no dress code at casinos near Sarasota, FL. Most people dress in casual clothing, such as jeans and t-shirts. However, some casinos may have dress codes for entry into certain upscale restaurants or lounges. It's always a good idea to check with the casino directly or call ahead to confirm their dress code policy.
Are drinks free at the casinos near Sarasota?
Yes, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are typically complimentary while you are gambling. Look for a cocktail waitress and she will take care of you. You can tip the server based on your consumption and quality of service.
Do you have to pay to park at the casinos near Sarasota?
No, parking is usually free at the casinos near Sarasota, FL.