Things to do near siesta key fl

No question our loveliest beach, with quartz-crystal sand as white and soft as powdered sugar, has been officially ranked as "the finest, whitest sand beach in the world" and is continuously voted by travelers as the "#1 Beach in the U.S." Siesta Key's island energy is palpable and made even more so by the many on and offshore activities, as well as the accessible nature to finding bliss by simply floating in the clear, calm waters of the Gulf.

Tips for Visiting Siesta Key Beach & Village

In Siesta Village you'll find an assortment of boutiques, bars and restaurants for delicious beachside dinners and souvenir shopping. If you prefer respite from the sand and surf, there are boundless things to do at Siesta Key's public beach.

• Play beach volleyball or let the kids play on the playground at Siesta Beach Public Pavillion
• Ride the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley
• Dine and shop your way through Siesta Key Village
• Take an e-bike tour across Siesta's sands with Sarasota Bike Tours
• Check out Sunset Point/Patriots Pier for an unrivaled Gulf Coast sunset
• Rent a boat or jetskis, take a fishing charter or go parasailing with CB's Saltwater Outfitters
• Go kiteboarding or wakeboarding 
• Become part of the mesmerizing beat of the Siesta Key Drum Circle every Sunday evening on the beach
• Get a relaxing massage or get your yoga on at Mandala Med Spa & Yoga Shala
• Take a booze cruise or Sunset Tour aboard Sarasota Boat Tours
• Stroll the Siesta Key Farmers Market in the Village on Sunday mornings (8am-12pm)
• Catch live music and the best happy hour in town at Siesta Key Oyster Bar

Tips for Visiting South Siesta Key

Point of Rocks at the south end of Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach even further south, offer a more low-key alternative for a place to unwind, escape the crowds, relax seaside and spot wildlife. 

• Rent scooters or bicycles from Ride & Paddle to cruise and explore the south end of the key
• Grill out and picnic at the facilities of Turtle Beach
• Sunbathe and splash around on Crescent Beach
• Have a sunset dinner on the water at Ophelia's On The Bay
• Rent kayaks or standup paddleboards the waterways with Dolphin Paddlesports
• Go camping out at Turtle Beach Campground 
• Snorkelor go fishing at the Point of Rocks
• Experience "Old Florida" and catch live music or a sports game at Captain Curt's Crab & Oyster Bar
• Admire the sea turtle nests (but don't touch or get too close) during turtle nesting season (May 1-Oct. 31)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top attractions to visit in Siesta Key?
Siesta Beach, Siesta Key Village, Sunset Pier, Crescent Beach, Turtle Beach, Point of Rocks, Siesta Farmers Market

When is the best time to visit?

There's really no wrong time to visit the beautiful beaches of Sarasota, however, if you're looking for the absolute best time to go to Siesta Key, try to plan for April to May or September to October. These late summer, early fall times are great months in terms of weather not being terribly hot like it can get in the summertime yet crowds are not at the absolute peak as they tend to get during high season (winter months). But then again, a winter getaway just might be the best time of year to visit to escape the snow and capture some sunshine.  

What is the closest airport to Siesta Key?

The closest airport is Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), which is about a 45-minute drive from the airport.

Where is the best place to stay in Siesta Key? 

Here is a list of some of our favorite hotels and resorts on the island to stay while on a vacation or staycation.

What are the best outdoor activities in Siesta Key for adults?

Fishing charters, boat rentals, bike or e-bike rentals, beach volleyball, booze cruises, bar hopping, watersports

What are some popular things to do in Siesta Key with the kids?
Parasailing, tubing, camping, snorkeling, body boarding, skimboarding, boat tours, wildlife spotting, kayaking/paddleboarding

What is the dining scene like on the island? 

From beachy casual and waterfront grills to upscale-chic restaurants and vibey oyster bars, here are some of our favorite places to eat on the Key. 

What is the best way to get around?

The free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley runs daily (8am-10pm) and runs every 30 minutes from the Village to Turtle Beach and will pick you up and drop you off anywhere along the route. Beach cruisers, scooters, golf cart rentals, walking or car rental are also are great ways to get around the island. 

What is the parking situation in Siesta Key?

There is free parking at the Siesta Key Beach Pavilion and Turtle Beach. Otherwise, there is free and paid meter parking lots scattered across the Key.  

Are there restrooms at the beach?

There are public restrooms, showers and a concession at the Siesta Key Public Pavillion, as well as restrooms and showers at the Turtle Beach Pavillion.

Is Siesta accessibility-friendly? 

Sarasota County is an accessible destination for all. Siesta Beach even boasts one of the only Mobi-Mats in the area, providing a 400-ft long mat made of recycled plastics rolled out from the pavilion to the sand. Siesta also offers beach wheelchairs, which are available at the beach concessionaire (9am-4pm).

Plan Your Next Trip

Learn more about Siesta Key, find more trip ideas and help to start planning your trip!