Siesta Key

Pro Tip: Make reservations ahead of time to dine at any waterfront restaurant around sunset. Locals and visitors alike fill the tables fast and tend to linger until after the sun goes down.

About Siesta Key Beach

Regularly considered a top beach in Florida, Siesta Key Beach stands as one of Sarasota's top attractions. Siesta Key boasts three family-friendly beaches – Turtle, Crescent, and Siesta – lined with powdery quartz sand. The aptly-named Sunset Point and the relatively secluded Point of Rocks offer wide waterfront views of evening sunsets. In addition to waterside restaurants dotting the beachfront, Siesta Key Village's shopping and dining district draws locals and visitors farther inland. 

Visitor Experience

Siesta Key visitors rave about the sugar-like sand, weekly drum circles, and fiery sunsets. However, some mention frustration with how crowded the beaches can get, especially since many parking spaces are a substantial walk from the sand. Travelers also acknowledge that Siesta Key Village, while a fine place to shop and dine, gets crowded during snowbird season.

Location

Many locals arrive at Siesta Key by car, taking advantage of both free and paid parking lots. Taxis and ride-shares also serve the area. Visitors can use the free Route 77 Siesta Islander open-air trolley service that runs from downtown Sarasota through Siesta Key. This service operates in 30-minute intervals from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily. 

Tickets

Siesta Key, its beaches, and Siesta Key Village are all open to the public for free exploration. While free public restrooms and sports courts are available, visitors will need to pay for other amenities like beach chair/umbrella rentals and a fishing license. 

Hours

Siesta Key's beaches are open from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily. 

Additional Information

For more information and trip planning advice, check out our Siesta Key travel guide.