12 Best Things to Do in Siesta Key Florida
Siesta Key, Florida isn’t just another beach destination. Sure, its got world-famous, sugar-soft sand and crystal-clear waters. But beneath the sunshine lies a treasure trove of walkable fun and activity for every kind of Florida vacationer.
This island is jam-packed with food, fun, shopping and outdoor activities that appeal to all ages. Whether you crave relaxation, adventure, or walkable eating and shopping… here are the very best things to do in Siesta Key Florida!
But before you start planning your itinerary and all the great thing to do… do you know where you want to stay?
Best Stays on Siesta Key?
When planning all the best things to do in Siesta Key Florida, you’ll want to consider where to stay! There are beachfront luxury resorts and smaller guest cottages… and everything in between.
If you want to be steps away from the best beach on Siesta Key while enjoying beautiful rooms, a lovely pool area and other amenities, check out Siesta Key Beach Resort and Suites for current pricing and availability, and look at those fantastic customer reviews on this pet-friendly, kid-friendly option with free wifi, microwaves in rooms, free bicycle rentals and more!
Prefer CAMPING? Check out the Turtle Bay Campground! Bring your RV or tent, and enjoy direct beach access steps away from your campsite, and jump onto the island trolley for easy access to the rest of the island.
12 Best Things to Add to Your Siesta Key Itinerary
Siesta Key Trolley for Fun and Convenience!
Ditch the car and hop on the Siesta Key’s Route 77 Siesta Islander open air trolley! This free, eco-friendly trolley loops around the island, stopping at major beaches, shops, and restaurants. It’s a convenient way to explore without the hassle of parking.
Shop Beachy Boutiques and Gift Shops!
Siesta Key has lots of great boutiques and beachy gift shops to explore, and make sure to spend extra time walking around Siesta Key Village! Find unique treasures, locally-made crafts, and the perfect beachside attire to commemorate your trip.
Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches!
Siesta Beach
Renowned for its powdery-soft, white sand that stays cool underfoot. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and leisurely walks. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for families with young children. For the best shelling opportunities, head towards the south end of Siesta Beach.
This beach regularly ranks as either the U.S. #1 or #2 beach and should definitely be on your list of things to do in Siesta Key Florida!
Walkability: Siesta Beach is directly accessible from Siesta Key Village, with numerous restaurants, gift shops, and resorts within walking distance. A trolley stop is also conveniently located nearby.
Crescent Beach
This picturesque beach offers stunning sunset views and boasts the same sugar-soft sand as Siesta Beach. Ideal for relaxation, swimming, and shelling. Crescent Beach is also a popular spot for water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking.
Walkability: Crescent Beach is a short walk or bike ride from Siesta Key Village. While there are a few beachfront resorts with restaurants, reaching the wider variety of shops and restaurants in the village requires the trolley or a car.
Enjoy the Vibrant Nightlife!
Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back beach bar to savor a cocktail and watch the sunset or dance to some live music, there’s lots of walkable bars and beachy nightlife to enjoy every evening after a day of fun and sun. Once you’re there, you won’t be able to miss it!
Attend Concerts in Siesta Key Florida!
The Sunset Drum Circle on Crescent Beach is a weekly tradition, where talented percussionists gather for a rhythmic spectacle. Throughout the year, Siesta Key Village also hosts various concerts and live music events, offering a vibrant atmosphere. The crowd begins to gather an hour before sunset every Sunday, year-round.
And just minutes away, there are lots of venues in Sarasota and nearby Tampa Bay that host big bands and concerts. Check out bandsintown to see what concerts are happening near Siesta Key when you plan to visit there!
Kayak Rentals or Take a Guided Kayak Tour!
Rent a kayak and spend a few hours exploring the island’s hidden coves and mangrove forests. Explore the serenity of the waterways, spot playful dolphins, and discover a unique perspective of Siesta Key’s natural beauty. Or check out the amazing reviews on this Mangroves, Manatees and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour and reserve your spots!
Boat Rentals or a Luxury Charter!
Feeling adventurous? Rent a boat and set sail on your own aquatic escapade. Explore hidden beaches, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or simply cruise along the stunning coastline for a day of relaxation on the water. Or check out the reviews on this Private Luxury Boat Charter!
Fishing from Turtle Beach!
Located on the south end of Siesta Key, this beach area isn’t ideal for swimming and building sandcastles. But it IS a fantastic place to do some fishing from the shore! Try your luck from the Gulf (beach) side or head towards the lagoon… there’s lots of varieties of fish to target.
Eating at the Many Restaurants and Snack Shacks!
This small island is a haven for foodies! Walk from fresh seafood restaurants to coffee shops to international cuisine and more, there is no shortage of eating options! Siesta Key’s culinary scene is a delight including visitor favorites The Lobster Pot and The Cottage. And don’t forget to stop at the many snack shacks to satisfy mid-day cravings like The Siesta Key Fudge Factory and Jake’s Ice Cream.
Shopping at the Siesta Key Farmer's Market on Sundays!
This farmer’s market is open each Sunday and features a fantastic array of vendors selling everything from soaps to tacos, and most everything in between! Check out the Siesta Key Farmer’s Market website for current operating hours and more information here.
Play Miniature Golf on the Mainland!
Just a quick 20 minute drive back onto the mainland is Smuggler’s Cove Adventure Golf where you’ll play through 18 holes of miniature golf, enjoying themes like pirates, waterfalls and even live alligators! There’s lots of water and even caves to play through, making this a great attraction to enjoy for all ages and they’re open every day of the year!
Head South for Fantastic Shark Tooth Hunting!
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Just 30 minutes south in Venice, Florida you’ll find beachfront known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World”! It’s well worth the 30 minute drive from your Siesta Key vacation to spend a morning at Caspersen Beach sifting sand and hunting shark teeth. Grab your bucket, shovel and sand sifter and try your skills!
Visit fossilguy.com for his insider tips on where to go and how to find the best shark teeth in the area. And did you know? And if you plan to visit the area in April, make sure to check out The Venice Sharks Tooth Festival (check their website for next dates).
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