Siesta Key is located just eight miles off the western coast of Florida between Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Siesta key is best known for its attractive beaches, but there are also plenty of shops, restaurants, water sport opportunities and other attractions to keep visitors busy during their stay.
Beaches
The most popular beach on Siesta Key is Siesta Key Public Beach, which received the honor of "The Best of the Best Sand," by Conde Next. The beach is open year-round and there are lifeguards patrolling the half-mile stretch of beach. In addition, there are tennis and volleyball courts, as well as softball fields, for those who want to do a bit more than swim and sunbathe. There is also a 20-station fitness trail. Other beaches on the island include: Turtle Beach, Crescent Beach and Palms Point Beach. Although these are not as picturesque as Siesta Key Public Beach, they are a bit quieter and more secluded.
Sports and Recreation
Siesta Key and the Sarasota metropolitan area offers a number of sports clubs for active travelers and residents. Some of these include: archery, fishing, racquetball, polo and even cricket clubs. In addition, there are numerous basketball, racquetball, tennis and volleyball courts, as well as soccer, football and softball fields. Horseback riding is available at some state parks and area farms, and there are four area golf courses, as well as miles of biking and hiking trails. Kayaking, canoeing, boating, sailing, jet-skiing and water-skiing are all popular water sport activities on Siesta Key. Fishing excursions can be chartered by local operators, and more adventurous individuals can go parasailing and windsurfing.
State Parks
Siesta Key is conveniently located a short drive or boat ride away from several area state parks, most of which offer hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing or swimming opportunities for those who want to remain active. Egmont Key State Park can only be reached by private boat and functions primarily as a Wildlife Refuge. Lake Manatee State Park is located on the banks of Lake Manatee and is an ideal spot for boating and kayaking. Myakka River State Park offers 58 square miles of wetlands and is an ideal spot for wildlife-spotting and kayaking. Oscar Scherer State Park offers 15 miles of hiking and biking trails, and Skyway Fishing Pier State Park is the world's longest fishing pier, and a fun attraction for both anglers and non-anglers alike.
Spas
Those who want to take a bit of time to focus on their mental and physical well-being may want to head to one of the three dozen area spas on Siesta Key and the Sarasota metro era. Local spas offer services, such as relaxing massages, saunas, Turkish baths, facials and other health and well-being services.
Dining
As a beach town, there are plenty of fried food and other unhealthy dining options. However, for those who enjoy healthy eating, you will be glad to hear that most seafood restaurants offer boiled or grilled options or salads, and many area cafes offer healthy lunch and dinner fare. Healthy options can also be found at Peruvian, Thai and Japanese restaurants. In addition, farmer's markets on Siesta Key and in Sarasota are a good spot to buy organic or locally-grown produce.
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