Only a short drive from Sarasota is the beautiful and enchanting Siesta Key Beach that sits on the Gulf of Mexico. This quaint 8-mile island offers a variety of activities, from shopping, resorts, dining and nightlife. You will find white sandy beaches and magnificent turquoise waters and plenty of beach amenities. With something for everyone, whether it be a romantic getaway for lovers, a sports adventure or a family vacation. The beautiful area has many great accommodation options to help maximise your enjoyment. And with only being a short drive from the wonderful Sarasota, you will be able to explore many of the surrounding areas of the key, allowing you more opportunity for a fun-filled adventure.
How to Get in Siesta Beach Key
The closest airport in Florida is only a short car journey away, the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport is recommended to be flown into for visiting Siesta Key.
Activities
You will never find a dull moment on Siesta Key with its variety of activities to keep you occupied. You can visit the main beach of Siesta Key, known as Siesta Beach, with its pure white sand and a perfect spot to spend your sunny days. Settle yourself on the soft sand and soak in the sun, or why not take a dip into the azure waters making you feel like you have entered paradise. The beach is also a great spot if you want to pack a picnic where you will be able to look out over the glorious horizon as you snack. Don’t forget to pack yourself a beach ball or volleyball to play around in the sunshine. If you wander around the beach you may even have the chance to join in on one of the free yoga classes that take place as the sun rises or sets, bringing you to a tranquil peace.
You cannot head to Siesta Key and not partake in some exciting water sports activities. Have the chance to go jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking and enjoy a relaxing boat tour where you will be able to take in the scenery of the area. Rent through one of the many different businesses along the beach so that you can ride against the waves and splash in the water. Check out parasailing where you will be able to fly above the water and also enjoy a nice relaxing boat ride. You will have the chance to see Siesta Key from a beautiful vantage point, seeing all of the beauty of the area. If you love to have the wind and water in your hair, then why not try out tubing, water skiing, wakeboarding and kneeboarding.
If you fancy exploring the underwater world, head to Point of Rocks for a snorkelling adventure. It is known as one of the best spots for snorkelling and can be found at the southernmost end of Crescent Beach. Here you will find tide pools and an array of moss-covered rocks. You will have the chance to see a variety of marine life that live in the area, from fish, care as and red sponge. And if you want a chance to get a bit closer to some of the bigger marine life that frequents the area, head out on a dolphin cruise where you will be able to see these beautiful creatures in their natural environment. The Siesta Key waters have the largest population of wild bottlenose dolphins, and on one of the many cruises offered you will be able to see them leap and jump through the waves, putting on quite a show for you.
If you fancy a bit of shopping on your trip, then you won’t be disappointed by the many shopping opportunities in Siesta Key. Beach Bazaar is a good spot for picking up souvenirs and any forgotten beach holiday items. Throughout the village, you will find many little boutique and souvenir shops, as well as plenty of surfing and skate shops. If you are an art lover then The Gallery is a must-visit. Located on Ocean Boulevard and shows a variety of works that have been created by local artists, and you will find a great variety of different types of art throughout the store. If jewellery is more to your taste, Silver City Sarasota is a great spot to visit as they are home to some unique pieces. And if you fancy a unique bottle of wine, then head over to Siesta Key Tropical Wines where you will find a selection of wines that bring the tastes of the tropics to you.
Where to Stay
Siesta Key has plenty of wonderful accommodations to suit all, from large resorts to intimate apartments. The Sea Spray Resort is mere steps away from the Siesta Key Beach and is a selection of comfortable and private rental units. Each unit includes a living room, kitchen and either one or two bedrooms. The Tropical Breeze Resort is a great spot for families and couples. With hotel rooms and rental apartment options, you will be able to explore the joys of Siesta Key easily. Siesta Key Bungalows are a little piece of heaven with ten unique bungalows to stay and relax in. The bungalows are located near the three main beaches in Siesta Key, and also have wonderful views out over the ocean.
Weather in Siesta Key Beach
For the best weather and also for some interesting festivals is between October and April. In mid-November the Crystal Classic, an International Sand Castle Festival takes place where you can see incredible sculptures being created. During these months is when the beaches have lots of sun and there are plenty of attractions for visitors.
