Last Updated August 26, 2022
Did you know that Siesta Key Beach was rated as America’s number beach destination on TripAdvisor three times? With the breathtakingly blue waters and 8 consecutive miles of white sandy beaches, it’s easy to see why! Of all the things to do in Florida, a visit to Siesta Key tops the list for many visitors and locals alike.
Siesta Key is the perfect getaway for every traveler. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures or some much-needed R & R, this picturesque destination has something for everyone. Are you looking for an island getaway to either visit or live? This bustling community is just for you!
Are you planning on visiting Siesta Key or even moving to the area and want to know about the best spots in town? Check out this guide on things to do in Siesta Key and find out what makes this place so special.
Siesta Key Weather
Since Siesta Key is on the Gulf of Mexico, it’s shielding from the drastic temperature changes that the Eastern part of the state can get. This makes the weather pretty dependable throughout the year.
It also means that you can enjoy the warmer gulf waters for most of the year. The waves are not as wild or as cold as the ones on the Atlantic side. So it’s great for your little ones too.
In the summer you can enjoy average daily highs of 85 degrees with high humidity. This season usually lasts from May to October. August weather can be rather muggy, so make sure to plan your trip accordingly.
You don’t need to worry about snow here for the remaining months. The temperatures usually stay in the mid-‘70s from December to March, thankfully never dipping below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Best Things To Do in Siesta Key
Are you looking for a place that is fun for the whole family? Siesta Key is the place for you! Whether you are interested in sunbathing or thrilling water activities, this island getaway is calling your name.
Check out some of the fun offerings, below.
Outdoor Adventures
This place is packed (change word) full of outdoor and water-related adventures. Take to the sea with kayak rentals, boating excursions, parasailing, paddleboarding, jet-skiing, and more!
Depending on the time of year, you can even go on a dolphin cruise to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
Deep-Sea Fishing
Chartering a fishing boat is one of the most popular things to do in Siesta Key, no matter your skillset.
Skilled fishing guides know all the best spots for deep-sea fishing, shallow-water species, and more. Just make sure to get your fishing license from a local bait shop for anyone 16+.
Snorkeling in Siesta Key
Snorkeling is a great activity for the whole family, and Siesta Key is just one of many great places to go snorkeling in Florida. ! Located on the southernmost side of Crescent Beach is some of the best snorkeling around.
Point of Rocks is made up of several tide pools, rocks, and water levels that stay around 5 feet deep.
This is the perfect place for solo and family snorkelers thanks to the numerous fish, crabs, and other sea creatures. Pro tip: wear some water shoes to save your feet.
Bike Rentals on Siesta Key
Nearly everything you could need is within reach on Siesta Key. If you are looking for a fun way and affordable way to get around, rent a bike!
There are several rental shops scattered throughout the island which makes it easy to choose what’s best for you. You can even access scenic bike trails just outside of the island.
Forgot your stroller or wheelchair? No worries! Call ahead and reserve one for when you arrive!
Rest and Relaxation
Of all the free things to do in Florida, relaxing at the beach is at the top of the list for many of us! With three key beaches, Siesta Key Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach, you have your pick! Try a different one each day!
This is the perfect place to lay out your towel, catch up on reading, or take a dip into the crystal-clear blue waters. Relax into the carefree energy and soak in the view.
Don’t forget to treat yourself to a massage or facial at one of our local spas!
Shopping
Since this is a bustling island community, you can find nearly everything you need. There are plenty of boutiques up and down the main thoroughfare.
Forgot your swimsuit or beach towel? No worries! You can easily pick up all beach accessories from one of the many quintessential beach shops on the island.
If you want something more specific, you can visit Southbridge Plaza or Southbridge Mall. It has all your favorite designers along with some knickknack shops as well.
Siesta Key Restaurants
Tasty dining is within your reach! In Siesta Key, you can find a flavor for everyone along this 8-mile island getaway.
From craft breweries, American gastro-pubs, deep-fried treats, to fresh catch-of-the-day seafood restaurants, you can try it all!
Prices range from fine dining to affordable fan favorites. There are also shacks along the beach serving up drinks, snacks, and other fun treats for those wanting to spend all day in the sun.
Don’t forget to stop by Meany’s donuts in Siesta Key village. This iconic stand is a must-try for fresh and hot donuts made to order!
Nightlife and Entertainment
If you’re looking for more things to do on land, you don’t need to go far! Siesta Key Village has over a hundred shops, bars, unique boutiques, coffee shops, and delicious restaurants.
It’s brightly, lively, and easy to walk around and explore.
The drum circle is a great way to meet new people and dance the stress of the day away. Weekly you can also find other events taking place on the beach on various days and times including Zumba classes, yoga, and salsa dancing! Even if you’re not a dancer, you can take in the stunning sea views while listening to the music.
Speaking of which, many restaurants and bars offer live outdoor music. You can also venture into neighboring cities, like Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, and beyond for day trips!
Where To Stay in Siesta Key
Since everything is easily accessible in Siesta Key, you don’t need to worry about not staying in the heart of the island. There is a great mix of affordable and more expensive condos, resorts, hotels, and even property rentals. Check out some of the options below.
Siesta Key Hotels
Since Siesta Key is a popular Spring Break destination, you can find plenty of hotels throughout the island. Average nightly rates vary, depending on the season, and most resorts offer other amenities, like spa and pool services.
Looking for more options? Sarasota is just on the mainland over the bridges, and there are other great hotels in Sarasota that may fit your family’s needs.
Airbnb and Vrbo
Vacation rentals are all the rage in Siesta Key because they offer a more homey feel than a hotel room. They range from private bedrooms to full condominiums with a pool and tennis court access, or beautiful beachfront homes! A bonus is that many of the best hosts try to create customized experiences for their guests. You may get great recommendations from them to find unique experiences to try in the area and some hosts even leave beach accessories such as chairs, umbrellas, paddleboards and bikes for you to use!
Real Estate in Siesta Key
It’s hard not to love Siesta Key. Many people enjoy vacationing here so much that they want to buy property in Siesta Key, whether to live permanently, for retirement, or just for vacation. In fact, real estate in Siesta Key is a great investment for many people because they may use it as a second vacation home or even rent it out via Airbnb or Vrbo when they are not staying there. This is a great way to help pay for your home while also being able to use it whenever you wish.
If you’re thinking about buying real estate in Siesta Key, we’ve got you covered. We can help you find cozy bungalows, condos, with everything you need for your new home. We’ve got everything you need to know about Siesta Key!
Click here to search Siesta Key Real Estate currently available!
Siesta Key Transportation
Getting around Siesta Key is a breeze. If you choose to drive, there are plenty of paid parking lots and some street parking all along the main road, Midnight Pass Rd.
Don’t want the hassle of renting a car? You can take advantage of the budget-friendly local transportation.
Thankfully, there are several free transportation services to help you get around with ease. These tip-only services are a great way to personalize your experience without breaking the bank! The drivers are locals who love to share favorite places to eat and hidden gems.
The Breeze Trolley
Looking for a fun and convenient way to get around? The Breeze Trolley is one of the best well-known transportation options in the area. This free trolley runs roughly every 20-30 minutes throughout the week, and you can check the schedule to help you plan.
It will pick you up at any SCAT bus stops, located on Beach Road. You can flag it down anywhere along Midnight Pass Rd as well.
This is a great way to easily travel from Siesta Village North to South Village and even on to Turtle Beach.
Other Free Transportation on Siesta Key
You can request a ride with Johnny’s Original Free Ride- a local favorite for after-hours! If you have a larger group, check out Siesta Key Free Ride which offers larger shuttle rides.
You can always call Siesta Key Frog Hop to pick you up in style. Their brightly colored vehicles are a fun way to see the sites and get you where you want to go.
Enjoy Your Stay in Siesta Key!
As you can see above, there is something for everyone in Siesta Key! The year-round sun, bustling community, and pristine white sandy beaches invite you in with ease and comfort.
You can find the perfect place to stay with one of the many rental options throughout the island. Even though tourists do travel to this area throughout the year, it also has a thriving community of locals. Siesta Key is both affordable and full of life.
