Best Things to Do in Siesta Key Florida
Siesta Key Florida is a slice of paradise on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
With beautiful beaches, great food, and so many things to do in Siesta Key, it’s a good idea to have a plan of the best things to do ahead of time.
You can spend a day just lounging on the gorgeous white sand beaches, but there is so much more, whether you’re headed there for a romantic getaway or a thrilling fun family vacation!
From water activities to delightful dining to more adventurous things for the whole family to enjoy, there’s something for everyone in Siesta Key. We’ve got your list of things to do the entire family will enjoy.
Table of Contents
Where Is Siesta Key?
Located southwest of Sarasota in Sarasota County, Siesta Key is one of the barrier islands on the west coast of Florida.
It’s known for its gorgeous turquoise waters lapping the shore at white sandy beaches.
To get from the mainland to Siesta Key, there are two main bridges. Stickney Point Bascule Bridge (Route 72) is located near the middle of the island, while the Siesta Key North Bridge (Route 758) is to the north.
There are three beautiful beaches on Siesta Key: Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach. Each one has its own unique character.
Why We Love This Beach Town
Siesta Key has a lot of aspects that make it a perfect place for a vacation.
For those who love a day at the beach, but hate the feel of blistering hot sand, the Siesta Key beaches are a dream come true. That gorgeous white sand isn’t just great for photos.
The sand doesn’t get hot because it’s 99% quartz, making it a great place for little feet to play.
When it comes to accommodations, Siesta Key has quantity and quality. From a wide variety of private rentals to major chain hotels and resorts, you can find the right type of lodging for your vacation. Most are just a short walk from the beach.
All that vacation fun will work up an appetite, and Siesta Key is a foodie paradise. From ice cream to delicious seafood and casual family fare to a romantic dinner for two, you won’t go hungry on Siesta Key.
Let’s start with the biggest draw to Siesta Key!
Things to Do on the Beach
Of course, the big draw of Siesta Key is those pristine beaches. That powdery white sand doesn’t get hot as it’s 99% quartz.
The blue water against the white sand makes the perfect Instagram family vacation photo! There’s a reason this has been named one of the top beaches in the country many times!
It would be impossible not to spend at least some time strolling on a Siesta Key beach, relaxing under an umbrella, or heading to the beach volleyball court.
We’ve got your list of the Siesta Key beaches and where to find them.
Volleyball on the Beach
For volleyball fans, Siesta Key has nets set up right on the beach. You might even be able to catch one of the pro events. Check out USA Volleyball for dates!
Sand Castles
If you are planning to visit in November (a beautiful time of year!) you may be able to see the most amazing sand castles at the Siesta Key Crystal Classic.
Shark Tooth Hunting
You may know that Sarasota has great beaches for beachcombing to look for shells, but did you know you can also find shark teeth?
Some of the best beaches to look for shark teeth are at the south end of Siesta Key, near Palmer Point Park and Midnight Pass. This was one of our kids’ favorite things to do in Siesta Key.
Drum Circle on the Beach
If you’re in Siesta Key on Sunday evening, you’ll hear the Siesta Key Drum Circle before you see it.
Dozens upon dozens of percussion enthusiasts bring out drums around sunset on Siesta and Englewood beaches to play hypnotic rhythms. Come and listen, dance, or join in the drumming.
Parasailing
For a unique view of the island plus a thrilling experience, parasailing can’t be beat. For the ultimate thrill, try the “free fall” experience, where you float down to the water only to be thrust back into the sky.
Flag Ceremony
At Patriot’s Pier at Sunset Point, there are flag ceremonies every day at sunset. There’s something very beautiful and moving watching the flag be retired at sunset on the beach.
Water Activities for Everyone
Fishing
As you can imagine, the crystal blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico are an amazing location for sport fishing. Charter boats can take you out to look for fish like pompano and tarpon.
But fishing around Siesta Key doesn’t have to be limited to a boat charter. If you’re fishing at one of the Siesta Key piers, you don’t even need a fishing license – it is covered with a blanket license.
Jet Ski
If you have a need for speed, rent a jet ski and take on the open ocean. Many locations offer different packages. Some even offer tours by jet ski to look for marine life like bottlenose dolphins.
Kayak
If you’re looking for a more tranquil tour of the waters of Siesta Key, a kayak rental is well worth the time. This is a wonderful family activity, and guided tours can take you to observe wildlife around the smaller islands.
Snorkel
You can certainly book a snorkeling tour (ask at the desk where you’re staying) but you can also just take a snorkel and fins and swim into the crystal clear water in Siesta Key!
I’ve been a couple of feet away from manatees swimming in the Gulf of Mexico! Though they are gentle giants, never reach out and touch a manatee as they are protected animals.
One of the best places to snorkel is around the shallow waters at Point of Rocks in the southern end of Crescent Beach.
Boogie Board
The waters around Siesta Key are calm enough for beginners to explore the fun of water sports like boogie boards and skimboards. You won’t find huge waves here, but there’s plenty of fun to be had. Rent a boogie board or purchase one and pass it along to someone else checking in on the island.
Paddleboard
There’s something almost meditative about paddleboarding. If you’ve never tried it, this is a sport that is relatively easy to pick up. The only danger is once you start, you won’t want to stop!
This area is a great place to paddle as the waves are usually gentle on the Gulf Coast beaches.
Any way you spend your day on Siesta Key, you’re going to want to grab something to eat. There’s a bit of everything on the island, and the hardest part of it will be just picking one place for a meal.
Here are a few of my favorites to try, if you need help selecting where to eat. Tip: For those who love fresh seafood, the grouper is amazing in Florida!
Besides the Beach
Though the beaches in Siesta Key are spectacular, there’s so more to do besides the beach!
Farmers Market
Every Sunday morning, Siesta Key Village hosts a local farmers market. The farmers market has local fresh produce, candles, artwork, food, and entertainment, and is a fun way to start your day.
Location: 5104 Ocean Boulevard.
Hours: Sunday 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Waterski Show
The Sarasota Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Show offers exciting entertainment for the whole family.
Located on the City Island area near the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, you can come out to watch practice sessions or their regularly scheduled shows.
There are bleachers to sit in or you can bring your own chair.
Location: 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway
Hours: Call 941-388-1666
Shopping at Siesta Key Village
If you want to take some time for retail therapy, head to Siesta Key Village. There’s a wide variety of stores here.
You can find clothing and beach essentials to enjoy during your vacation. Beach Bazaar has just about everything you could need!
Looking for gifts? You’ll also find beach home decor and souvenirs to take the Siesta Key experience home with you.
Dance The Night Away at the Beach Club
Looking to spend a night out with friends on the dance floor? This is the spot. The Beach Club has popular DJs, local bands, a large dance floor, strobe lights and lasers, and plenty of special events to keep things interesting.
The Club has two bars and a drink cart and can craft your favorite cocktail or make you one of their specialties like the Key Lime Pie Martini.
There’s outside seating, but when the band or DJ is on (often until 2 a.m.), the dance floor is the place to be. If you want a dose of Spring Break while visiting Sarasota, this is the place to be for a wild time!
For those not into the dance scene, the Club features all available football games on Sundays. Daily Happy Hour runs until 7 p.m. and includes all kinds of specials. Check out the calendar for ladies’ night.
5151 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key, 941-349-6311
Where to Eat
Turtles Restaurant
Located across from Turtle Beach, it doesn’t get more Floridian than this!
First, Turtles Restaurant is accessible by boat (at marker 48 on the Intercoastal Waterway) and by land. It offers open-air dining and live entertainment.
But the food is the real reason you’ll want to stop here. Grilled or blackened Gulf fish, like grouper or mahi mahi, will melt in your mouth.
Their fried baskets with items like shrimp, chicken wings, and even buffalo cauliflower are a bargain.
Make sure to save room for a slice of Key Lime Pie.
If you’re not too hungry, just grab some of their appetizers like pretzel sticks and queso or fish tacos, and enjoy one of more than a dozen specialty frozen drinks.
Location: 8875 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The Cottage
Fans of sustainable dining and local flavor will love The Cottage. You can find this eatery in Siesta Key Village, and enjoy dining in the two outdoor patio areas.
Describing themselves as Old Florida Charm with a modern twist, the menu is an eclectic mix of worldwide flavors.
If you want a light meal, go with their tapas, like Tuna Tacoshimi or Peruvian Ceviche, savoring each bite while listening to nightly live music.
For a more hearty meal, try the Beef Short Ribs Sofrito or the Bronzed Black Grouper.
Location: 153 Avenida Messina
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Siesta Key Oyster Bar
Probably the most popular restaurant in Siesta Key for really casual food, this spot will be jumping at night, especially during the season which runs from around November through April.
The menu offers a plethora of seafood. The oysters here are delicious, but we love the clams, too.
Location: 5238 Ocean Boulevard.
Hours: 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Open until midnight on Friday and Saturday. Sunday hours 9 a.m. until 11 p.m.
Made in Rome Gelato
After a day in the sun at the beach, taking a gelato break is a must.
Made in Rome Gelato offers 45 different flavors of gelato made with organic ingredients.
It’s rich, creamy, and flavorful. In fact, it’s the best gelato I’ve ever eaten (better than Rome!).
Location: 5204 Ocean Boulevard, Siesta Key, FL 34242
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Fudge Factory
Check out the Fudge Factory for delicious treats to eat there or take home.
Chocolate lovers will want to choose a couple of treats for when that sweet craving comes calling.
Location: 5263 Ocean Boulevard
Hours: 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. every day.
Siesta Key Rum Distillery
Siesta Key Rum at Drum Circle Distilling, is technically in Sarasota, but it’s close enough that it is worth it to make a trip.
You can take a tour of the distillery, and you’ll want to get some of their specialty blends, like coffee rum or toasted coconut rum. Sign up for tours on the website.
Location: 2212 Industrial Boulevard, Sarasota
Hours: 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Closed on Sunday.
Nearby Areas to See
Downtown Sarasota
Take some time to visit downtown Sarasota, too. Main Street is lined with shops and restaurants.
We love visiting and have created a list of the best Sarasota restaurants so you know where to go!
The Ringling Museum is definitely a must-see if you’re exploring the area. The miniature room is incredible!
Check the schedule for the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center to see if you can catch a live performance.
From Broadway-style shows like Mean Girls to musical performances like the Sarasota Orchestra or Melissa Ethridge, you never know what you might be able to catch!
St. Armands Circle
For shopping and eating, St. Armands Circle is an experience you don’t want to miss.
Of course, we can tell you our favorite St. Armands Circle restaurants, too!
We like to choose a few places to have appetizers and shop in between.
You’ll find everything from beach wear to a few upscale retail stores to art galleries and more!
Anna Maria Island
A visit to Anna Maria Island is a great way to spend a day. The beaches are basically the same as those Siesta Key beaches, and now you’ll have a plethora of Anna Maria Island restaurants to explore.
Besides the beaches and the food, there are still so many other activities on Anna Maria Island. You’re just getting started!
Where to Stay at Siesta Key Beaches
Siesta Key can be crazy busy. It’s best to book as far in advance as you can.
Once you have your hotel booked, grab my free printable packing list!
I have a list for every season. Print as many as you need and please share with your friends!
⭐ Recommended Upscale Hotel Lido Beach Resort located 3.3 miles from Siesta Key Public Beach.
I have personally stayed here so you can rest assured you will have a wonderful experience!)
⭐ Recommended Budget Hotel Hotel Indigo located 5.1 miles from Siesta Key Public Beach.
I have stayed here as well and it’s a fabulous property. I would consider this luxury hotel at budget prices in comparison to other hotels.
Top Tips
When heading to Florida for your Siesta Key vacation, always wear sunscreen, even when it’s cloudy. You can get a sunburn at any time of year, even with overcast skies.
Arrive early to make sure you can find a parking spot at Siesta Key Village or the public beaches. This is especially true on weekends when public parking can fill up early.
If you want to enjoy the beach in the evenings, arrive early (before sunset) or late (after sunset).
Be sure to make a reservation in advance for dinner. You should be okay as a walk-in for lunch, but you never know during the season between November and April what kind of waits you’ll look at for the dinner hour.
Most hotels will have beach chairs you can use, but you can also find places that rent them along with umbrellas, kayaks, boogie boards, and stand-up paddleboards.
I hope we’ve given you a lot of ideas for things to do in Siesta Key Florida.
Make sure to grab your free printable packing list and start planning your next getaway!
