Siesta Key is certainly the most famous of the keys surrounding the Sarasota coast. It’s beaches are some of the best in the world (and, in 2011, were actually named the best beach by Dr. Beach himself), featuring the world’s finest white sand, made of 99% quartz crystal, making it soft and cool to the touch. The weather in Siesta Key is also beautiful, with an average yearly temperature of 73, making it warm enough to visit during the winter, while cool breezes off of the Gulf of Mexico keep it nice during the hotter summer months.
Depending on which of the beaches you attend in Siesta Key, you will experience different things. The main beach is located to the north of the island, and is known for its recreational facilities, including volleyball nets, grills, bathrooms, and a snack bar. It is also home to May’s annual World Class Sand Sculpting Competition and the Siesta Key Crystal Classic in November. The beach in the middle of the coast, known as Turtle Beach, is considered very family friendly as well, with playgrounds, a horseshoe pit, and fishing opportunities as well as a boat launch. Crescent Beach is the most secluded beach, located to the south, with the Point of Rocks at its southern tip where you can go snorkeling and diving to get up close and personal with the wildlife. Dolphins and manatees play in the surf here and all along the coast, and pelicans and other shore birds often roost close to the beaches.
While there are some beach cottages and condominium properties available with an ocean view, you can also go more inland on the island and see what the Siesta Key real estate has to offer. There are plenty of things to do on Siesta Key even when you are not at the beach, with museums, art galleries, and restaurants located on the island and also a quick drive over into Sarasota. Check out the Downtown Saturday Farmer’s Market for crafts, flowers, food, and more. Or, if adventure is more your style for the weekend, there are plenty of water sports available with sail boating, fishing, snorkeling, and parasailing to keep you entertained.
