We highly recommend flying right into Sarasota(SRQ) if possible. Tampa(TPA) is also an option but add well over an hour of driving. Just from personal experiences I would avoid Allegiant as they have cancelled a few of my flights with no rebooking option for days.
We rented a house on Siesta Key and so far most people are staying at Airbnbs on Siesta Key. Depending where on the key, it is about 10- 15 minutes away from the venue. If you want to avoid crowds, Casey Key is beautiful. Anywhere in Sarasota, Osprey, Nokomis and Venice would be reasonably close to the venue.