Siesta Key - take it from me

Now most tourists head straight to Sandy Beach - which I love, but the locals know to go to the numbered beach access areas since they aren't nearly as crowded - it's best if you can walk or bike to them (parking is scarce). Each of these beach stretches has its own advantages. Some are great for collecting shells or sand dollars, others are great for low-level snorkeling and all of them are great for sun bathing! :)

If you plan to go - please don't tell me until after you get back...I always get jealous!

Siesta Key - hit the hay

Ok usually I provide information on different hotels that are affordable and provide more for your money...however, on Siesta Key, I recommend finding a house or condo to rent. I can't imagine staying in a hotel while on the island, there's so many great rentals with incredible locations and amenities - it seems silly not to take advantage of it. Plus, rentals allow you to visit the local farmer's market, etc. and stock up on food for while you're there, saving your money for fun nights out and activities while out exploring the island.

One place that my family has visited for many years is Gulf & Bay Club, located right on the beach (Gulf side - my preference) and not to be confused with Gulf & Bay Bayside. Now the main site requests a minimum of one month rentals but you can find many independent options by owners that are for less time. It's definitely not cheap but I can't say that there's anywhere that's super cheap on the island - this is more of a splurge option or go in on a house with a group of people a block inland to save a few dollars.

On that note, I know of a fantastic home a couple of blocks from the beach that is owned by a great couple. It's beautifully decorated, two bedrooms but sleeps 6, has a pool, hot tub, lanai, pass through bar area for relaxing meals on the screened patio and all the comforts of home. If you are interested in looking into this option, click HERE.

No matter where you choose to "hit the hay" you'll get a peaceful sleep and wake up to the sound of birds and rolling waves, I can't think of a better way to wake up! There are many rental options on the island and even though I didn't touch on any hotels, there are those as well. Additionally, if you want to save some money overall - look into staying in Sarasota and just driving over the bridge to Siesta Key and spend your days on the island and use your room as just the place you sleep. :)

Siesta Key - fun in the sun

Now I have to say from my own personal experience, I typically don't do much in terms of activities while I'm there.


Siesta Key - Day in the life of Melanie:
1. Wake up
2. Breakfast on the lanai or patio
3. Head to beach with munchies and drinks
(time lapse of 6-8 hours)
4. Dinner at home or in the Village
5. Night swim in the pool
Repeat :)

So...I'll do my best to describe the activities that are available - which is pretty much anything you can do in an island atmosphere. Aside from laying on the beach (which is now established as being my favorite activity), there's also a few others to explore. I'll break them up into Sand, Water and City.

Sand - probably one of the most popular pastimes is shell collecting. I've found huge sand dollars completely in tact, those cute little curly-que ones, large iridescent ones, you name it. The best place to hunt for shells is Turtle Beach - it was recently restored after suffering from some erosion issues so it should be back to top shape. Aside from shells, there's beach volleyball and sand castles (there are amazing artists that participate in the annual competition in early May each year - it's unbelievable).

Water - there's pretty much an endless amount of water sports and activities. Including jet skis, boats, parasailing, sailing, fishing, snorkeling, etc. I could go on to name every...single...one but I think you get the point. :)

City - there are tons of great little boutiques all over the island that are very fun to browse and bring home souvenirs. Additionally, another great shopping spot is St. Armand's Circle on Lido Key (pron. lee-doe). You'll find a variety of upscale shops and cafes, it's a great place to visit if you're looking for some real shopping. And I can't talk about activities without mentioning the Mote Marine Aquarium. It features sea life found off Florida's coast, but it also serves as a research facility and you can even tour the laboratory! You'll find sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, sting rays (that you can touch), eels and manatees (my favorite).

Siesta Key - eat, drink and be merry

Aside from the incredible scenery and wonderful people, there's also many great restaurants to choose from - both in town and on the water. And if you have the chance, I would recommend going at the end of April during Siesta Fiesta! It's one of the best times of the year for weather (warm but not humid!) and there's so much to see and do. The streets are closed off and merchants come from all over the nation to provide arts, crafts, food, etc. It's fun to see the people in the streets, kids with ice cream cones - it almost has the feel of what life was like 50 years ago.

Speaking of - my pick for ice cream (where my family ALWAYS goes) is Big Olaf's. And while we're on the subject of recommendations...my Grammie's favorite restaurant was definitely The Flying Bridge (which is unfortunately closed now) but she also loves The Broken Egg. She's been going down there for at least 20 years now for a few months out of the year and has the experience to know the good spots. I would also recommend making a stop at the places below, they are all well-known on the island and will provide you with a truly authentic experience while you visit this fantastic slice of paradise.

• Daiquiri Deck - great bar in the Village
  
• Old Salty Dog - local Siesta Key favorite
  
• SKOB - excellent seafood, especially if you like oysters!
  
• Phillippi Creek - very old Florida feel and famous for its steamer pots
  
• Turtles - located right on Little Sarasota Bay offering somewhat pricier menu items but the atmosphere and food are worth it! If you are looking for a bit more reasonable, head over for happy hour - reduced pricing. :)
  

Siesta Key - all in the family

My family has vacationed in Siesta Key, FL since I was born. It has one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen. It's always ranked in the top 10 beaches of the world and is known for it's white sand - which is cool to the touch and a gorgeous compliment to the blue/green water.

For reference, it's not part of the Keys that most people travel to - Siesta Key is up near Sarasota and the airport is right there! For those looking for flight options - there are many other airports within a couple of hours driving distance that could prove to be cheaper plane tickets since Sarasota/Bradenton (SRQ) can be on the pricier side.

Siesta Key is one that has gained in popularity over the years but the best part about this island is how all of the residents are dedicated to keeping it from becoming over-commercialized. Everyone works to keep the beaches pristine and tries hard to keep the island as close to a "small-town" feel as possible. The charm is what keeps visitors coming back year after year.