Siesta Key

 

In a nod to its namesake, Siesta Key beaches are an invitation for relaxation and rejuvenation. Ranked the #1 Beach in the U.S. in 2020 by TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards™, you will quickly understand why when you feel the quartz-crystal powdery sand between your toes, and experience the soft waves and the abundance of sun & fun at gorgeous Siesta Beach. Thanks to the large parking area, concession stands, the free trolley to get around on the island, and nearby fun Siesta Key Village, you will never be bored on this gorgeous key.

Siesta Key is a barrier island just 8 miles long. Many who live on "The Key" consider it paradise. During the winter, on the occasional day when the temperature drops, the warm water of the Gulf of Mexico keeps the temperature on Siesta Key warmer than would be found further inland during a cold snap. Renowned for the whitest and finest sand in the world, Siesta Key is a mixture of communities. From artists and writers who call Siesta Village home, to middle class "Keyites" to the exclusive waterfront residences, Siesta Key has a unique charm.

There are two drawbridges that link Siesta Key to the mainland. The south bridge, on Stickney Point Road leads directly to I-75 as it changes name to Clark Road heading east toward Arcadia. On the northern tip of the Key the drawbridge links Siesta Key into Sarasota. Both bridges cross the Intracoastal Waterway and open to allow larger boats to pass. A portion of the north end of Siesta Key lies within the boundaries of the City of Sarasota, while the majority of Siesta Key lies in the unincorporated Sarasota County. Siesta Key is a great location for visiting other parts of Florida. You're only a short drive to Miami, Orlando and Disney World or Tampa.

The main, approximately 6 mile long, beach is known the world over. In 1987 an international contest was held and the sand of Siesta Key was declared the finest and whitest sand in the world. Every day hundreds of walkers and joggers pass by on the water's edge along with a variety of sea birds such as egret, sandpiper, herons and of course seagulls. Many days dolphins can be seen feeding and playing just off the beach along with the occasional manatee. The shallow depths make it a very popular beach as walking hundreds of feet offshore the depth barely reaches six feet. 

There are two shopping areas on Siesta Key. Just a bit north of the public beach is Siesta Village. Dozens of boutiques, restaurants, and bars are located here as well as a small but fully stocked supermarket. Just to the south of where Stickney Point road meets Midnight Pass Road is the second commercial district. Many similar boutiques and offices are located here. In addition there are some very unique restaurants here and further south on Siesta Key.

There are only approximately 12-thousand people who call Siesta Key home year-round. The population nearly doubles during the winter as the hundreds of condominiums and hotel rooms fill up as the "snowbirds" arrive. Take a stroll on Siesta Beach and you'll hear many different languages spoken as Siesta Key is a popular destination for people from around the world.