Are you looking for a list of the best things to do in Siesta Key, Florida?

In this article, we’ll highlight our favorite things to do in Siesta Key, as well as show you the many reasons that this United States vacation destination is the ultimate beach-lovers paradise.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, go boating, fishing, snorkeling, or parasailing, there are literally so many fun things to do in Siesta Key.

Regardless of if you’re dining and drinking in Siesta Key Village or dipping your toes into the aqua-blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, a Siesta Key vacation will have you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and refreshed!

Look no farther for the 33 best things to do in Siesta Key with, or without kids!

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Things to Do in Siesta Key on the Ocean

Siesta Key is a barrier island off the southwest coast of the U.S. state of Florida, located between Roberts Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

There aren’t really any indoor Siesta Key attractions besides its many memorable restaurants, so it’s best to get comfortable on or near the ocean.

Here are the best things to do in Siesta Key that involve enjoying the beautiful Gulf of Mexico!

And psst…check out our related posts before your trip:

• The Ultimate 6-Day Siesta Key Vacation Itinerary + Tips For Your Visit
• The Best Seafood in Siesta Key: 8 Must-Try Eateries!
• 11 Best Overall Restaurants in Siesta Key That You Must Try!
• Siesta Key Parasailing: A Complete Guide For Kids & Adults

1. Relax on the Beach

With a reputation for having some of the top beaches in the United States, Siesta Key, Florida is a tropical paradise for beach-loving families.

In fact, we’ve crafted the perfect Siesta Key vacation itinerary to make sure that you experience it to the fullest.

Siesta Key’s 8-mile-long coastline features three main beaches, Siesta Key Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach.

Though each beach in Siesta Key is unique in its own way, they all offer the same picturesque aqua-colored water, as well as 99% pure quartz sand that is magnificently white and always cool to the touch.  

Additional planning tip: Though parking at the 3 Siesta Key beaches is free, it can be hard to get a spot, especially on the weekends or holidays.

Plan to arrive at the beaches early in the morning, or later in the afternoon (after 3:00 PM) when people are beginning to leave.

Don’t forget to bring along important beach essentials that will maximize your fun and safety while on the beach!

Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key Beach, also known as Siesta Beach, is the most popular beach in Siesta Key. Likewise, it was rated the #1 beach in America by TripAdvisor users in 2015, 2017, and 2020.

The sugary-white sand found here is literally out-of-this-world amazing and is what draws families and vacation-goers here year after year.

The full line-up of amenities and things to do at Siesta Key Beach include:

• First aid center with lifeguards on duty year-round
• Public restrooms and showers
• 800 car public parking lot
• Full-service snack bar and gift shop
• Picnic areas with and without cover
• Gazebos and shelters that can accommodate 60-120 people.

Families can also enjoy all the following sporting activities at Siesta Key Beach:

• Playground equipment
• A tennis court complex
• Volleyball court
• A 20 station fitness trail

Additional planning tip: If you’re looking for an additional family vacation that includes Siesta Key Beach, check out our complete 6-day Sarasota vacation itinerary.

Crescent Beach at Siesta Key

If you’re looking for something a little quieter and more secluded, head south on Siesta Key to Crescent Beach.

Planning Tip: Crescent Beach is the most private, non-private beach in Siesta Key.

This part of Siesta Key is an enclave where the beach is densely lined with condos, villas, and vacation rentals that provide direct access to the waterfront.

Midnight Pass Road provides the only (easy to miss) public access to enter Crescent Beach. From there, there’s a 25-space parking lot and walking pathway that leads out onto the beach.

Though it doesn’t have the same amenities as Siesta Beach, you can still go shelling, build sandcastles, and enjoy the ocean with a bit more privacy.

In addition, Siesta Key’s diving and snorkeling hotspot called Point of Rocks is located at the southern tip of Crescent Beach (more on that coming up!).

Turtle Beach at Siesta Key

Turtle Beach is located on the narrow, southern end of Siesta Key.

The water is just as clean and clear as a few miles north, while the sand tends to be a bit coarser than the white quartz powdery sand in Crescent Beach and Siesta Key Beach.

With that comes the opportunity to find great shells and shark teeth!

Turtle Beach, like Crescent Beach, has limited amenities, however, does provide:

• Public restrooms
• Volleyball courts and horseshoe pits
• Playground equipment
• 300-car public parking lot
• Picnic areas
• A boat ramp (perfect for small boats and kayaks) on the east side of the beach that feeds out to Little Sarasota Bay
• Camping at Turtle Beach Campground (one of only a few campgrounds in Florida with direct beach access)

Additional planning tip: Turtle Beach has a steeper incline that drops from ankle-to-waist-deep water. Also, note that there are no lifeguards on duty at Turtle Beach.

2. Snorkel at the Point of Rocks

Though a bit difficult to get to, the Point of Rocks is known as the best place to snorkel in Siesta Key.

It is also one of the best family activities in Siesta Key.

The easiest way to find Point of Rocks is to walk to the southern-most end of Crescent Beach until you reach a gigantic sea wall. You must then climb along the sea wall, turn a corner, and walk down 3 steps into the water.

By now you will see the amazing tide pools and snorkeling area complete with an array of gigantic moss-covered rocks that protrude from the ocean.

The water is no more than 5 feet deep here, and there is a vast amount of and marine life that includes fish, crabs, and red sponges.

There are also large distributions of seashells, making this a perfect spot for shell picking.

Additional planning tips: Wear water shoes when visiting Point of Rocks as the terrain is made up of crushed shells and coral. Also, the rocks can get quite slippery.

There are only 10 – 12 parking spots at the alley access for Point of Rocks which is why it is best to park at Crescent Beach and walk from there.

3. Go Parasailing!

One of the most fun things to do at Siesta Key is to take part in water sports via watersport rentals on the island.

Popular Siesta Key activities include kayaking, jet-skiing, boating, and our favorite, parasailing!

Parasailing in Siesta Key is an exciting and unique way to experience the epic scenery and aerial views of the turquoise-blue ocean that you simply won’t find anywhere else.

As you parasail, it’s not uncommon to spot dolphins, manatees, and other native seabirds and wildlife frolicking in the crystal-clear water.

Plus, you get to glide through the sky over Siesta Beach, the #1 rated beach in the United States.

Be sure to check out our complete guide to parasailing in Siesta Key to learn all about where to go, how to dress, and what to expect when parasailing here.

The best places to rent from Siesta Key watersport outfitters include:

• Parasail Siesta – Parasailing ($90/flyer)
• CB’s Saltwater Outfitters – Jet ski and boat rentals (family-owned and operated, an amazing reputation for boat rentals)
• Siesta Key Aqua Adventures – Banana boat and aqua spinner rides
• Robinhood Rentals – Paddleboard and kayak rentals
• Siesta Paddlesports – Paddleboard and kayak rentals
• Siesta Key Paddleboards – Paddleboard rentals

3. Take a Dolphin Cruise

By far one of the best things to do on Siesta Key is to watch dolphins jump and play in their natural environment on a guided dolphin cruise!

Siesta Key waters are home to one of the largest populations of wild bottlenose dolphins. Seeing dolphins in their natural habitat is both thrilling and serene, as well as something that you will never forget.

The beauty of taking a guided dolphin cruise is that the captain of the boat knows where to find them and will provide you with a relaxing experience to get a first-hand view.

Siesta Key dolphin cruises vary in length, time of day, and overall experience.

Here are two attractions in Siesta Key that offer dolphin cruises:

• Siesta Key Watersports – $30 Adults / $15 Children 10 and under
• Siesta Key Aqua Adventures – $65 for 21 years and up / $45 for under 21 years of age (2 Hrs.)

Additional planning tip: I’m sure you’re starting to realize just how epic your Siesta Key vacation will be! Check out our complete Florida packing list to find out the clothes, accessories, and important Florida extras that you can’t forget to pack!

4. Go Fishing!

If you’re looking for more Siesta Key things to do…go fishing!

Due to its shallow waters and multiple species of fish found in the area, fishing is another one of the best things to do in Siesta Key, Florida!

Whether you choose a guided fishing charter or prefer to find a good fishing area on your own, there are plenty of options when it comes to fishing in Siesta Key.

Options include deep-sea fishing, bridge fishing, and surfcasting for species such as mackerel, flounder, bluefish, snapper, and grouper.

Non-residents ages 16 and up require a license when fishing from public spots onshore. Licenses can be picked up at local bait shops and sporting goods stores, as well as online.

Read all about the best public fishing spots on Siesta Key here!

5. Attend the Siesta Key Drum Circle

The Siesta Key Drum Circle is a popular tradition that gathers large crowds of artists, dancers, locals, tourists, children, and adults for an evening of dancing and music as an act of judgment-free unity and peace.

This free family fun event takes place each Sunday year-round about 1-hour before sunset on Siesta Key Public Beach.

Depending on the time of year, the timing of the sunset changes. Regardless, listen for a siren and loud drumming sounds signaling its start.

There is no mandatory involvement, but hula hoops, costumes, and instruments are handed out to onlookers and you can both participate, as well as come and go at your leisure.

Additional planning tip: The Siesta Key Drum Circle can be found south of the main Siesta Beach pavilion between lifeguard stands three and four.

Things to Do in Siesta Key Besides the Beach

One of the best things about Siesta Key is that there are plenty of dry-land activities to take part in to diversify a family vacation here.

In fact, if you’re looking for things to do in Siesta Key beside the beach, most of the land activities are conveniently located within walking distance (or free local transportation!) of one another.

Here are our favorite fun things to do in Siesta Key that don’t involve the beach.

Additional planning tip: Despite not needing a car to get around Siesta Key and Siesta Key Village, you will most definitely need a form of personal transportation to move further about the island and to visit nearby communities.

Use a helpful rental car comparison website like this one to find the best deal for your vacation needs.

7. Explore Siesta Key Village

Siesta Key Village is a hub of approximately 100 different boutiques, cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops located in the central part of Siesta Key.

Because it is not overly large, Siesta Key Village can be explored by walking around on foot. It is my preference to do so because of its fun and relaxed ‘homey’ atmosphere!

There are a lot of fun shops with knick-knacks and souvenirs, tennis, surf, and snorkeling gear, as well as swimsuits, sunscreen, or a hat or t-shirt that says Siesta Key on it!

The best restaurants in Siesta Key Village include Another Broken Egg Cafe, Bonjour French Cafe, and Meany’s Mini Donuts for breakfast, and the Siesta Key Oyster Bar (+live music), Baja Hub Grill, and The Old Salty Dog for lunch or dinner.

Be sure to hit up Big Olaf Creamery for ice cream, and the Daiquiri Deck for drinks and live music on the patio.

All of these restaurants and bars get more and more exciting as the day wears on making Siesta Key Village one of the best things to do in Siesta Key at night!

Additional planning tip: Want to enjoy local artisans, beautiful beach paintings, handcrafted jewelry, and more? Visit the Siesta Farmers Market located in Siesta Key Village every Sunday from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

Or, click here to find out things to do in Siesta Key this weekend.

8. Take Advantage of Free Rides

In order to lighten the traffic on Siesta Key and save you the hassle of having to find a parking spot, Siesta Key offers several free transportation and rideshare options.

The Siesta Key Breeze Trolley, otherwise known as the Siesta Breeze Trolley, offers free round-trip service from Siesta Key Village to Turtle Beach, with many stops along the way.

Likewise, Jonny’s Original Free Beach Rides operates a fleet of electric vehicles that seat six and can transport your gear like beach chairs, coolers, and shopping items. They’ve become a tourist attraction in their own right and are frequently featured in photos of the island.

Other free, convenient, and eco-friendly transportation options include Siesta Key Free Ride and Siesta Key Frog Hop!

Additional planning tip: Some of these options require you to call and reserve a pickup time.

Also, though they are free to ride, these companies are all greatly appreciative and reliant on tips.

9. Rent a Bike or Other Land Rental

If you’re trying to determine what to do in Siesta Key, I highly recommend renting bikes!

It is no secret that cruising around the island on a bike, scooter, golf cart, segway, or scooter coupe car, is one of the best things to do in Siesta Key Florida!

The gorgeous weather, friendly streets, and laid-back feel of Siesta Key make getting out and exploring the island in this way a fun and memorable event.

For longer rides and additional exercise, some of the best bike trails in the state are located right outside of Siesta Key. These lengthy and scenic trails are well worth a visit for cycling enthusiasts.

The following businesses offer dry land rentals for cruising the streets and sidewalks of Siesta Key.

Along with the mentioned amenities, many of them also offer other rentals such as strollers, beach wheelchairs, and other beach gear such as chairs and umbrellas.

They also offer pick-up and delivery from where you are staying.

• Robinhood Rentals – Bikes, scooters, golf carts, segways, and scooter coupe cars
• Siesta Key Bike and Kayak – Bikes and electric bikes, scooters, and scooter cars
• Ride and Paddle – Bikes and scooters
• The Toy Barn – Golf carts, bikes, and bike trailers

10. Don’t Miss Sunset Point

Since the island of Siesta Key faces West out into the Gulf of Mexico, you’re guaranteed a front-row seat to watch the sun sink below the horizon.

Though there are many places to catch a sunset on Siesta Key, the most popular lookout point is at Sunset Point.

Located at the north end of Siesta Key Public Beach, this jut of land offers one of the best views of the magnificently lit evening skies.

Though you can see gorgeous sunsets anywhere along Crescent and Siesta Key Beach, Sunset Point is a great place where many other tourists come together each evening.

Additional planning tip: Keep a close eye out, for there’s a possibility that you’ll catch a rare sight known as a “green flash”. The green flash is a quick spot of green seen at the top of the sinking sun.

Also, don’t forget to bring along a beach chair as this is a common practice if you’re looking to relax and stay awhile.

11. Visit Local Beach Communities

When talking about fun things to do on Siesta Key, it is necessary to mention its close proximity to so many other amazing coastal communities.

Siesta Key is only a short drive from places like Sarasota, Lido Key, Bradenton, Longboat Key, and Anna Maria Island; all of which are great places to explore if you have a rental car.

Check out our absolute favorite things to do in Downtown Sarasota, as well as the best things to do on Anna Maria Island, as these are our two favorite day trips.

Next, if you’re willing to go a bit further but are still looking for things to do within 2 hours of Siesta Key, head to Tampa Bay, Clearwater, or St. Petersburg Florida.

If heading towards Tampa Bay, check out Busch Gardens, Lowry Zoo, and Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which are three of our favorite things to do near Siesta Key.

And finally, travel 2 hours and 15 minutes North and you’ll find plenty of things to do in Orlando – the amusement park capital of the US!

In short, you will definitely not be at a loss for things to do when visiting Siesta Key and the surrounding area!

Where to Stay in Siesta Key

Because all of Siesta Key’s beaches and attractions are relatively close to one another, you can choose to stay in one place for the entire duration of your trip to Siesta Key.

There are several resorts located either on the beach or near it.

Our favorites, which are all highly rated, include Sarasota Surf & Racquet Club (our full review coming soon!), Tropical Breeze Resort, and Hyatt Residence Club Siesta Key Beach.

For more options, consider staying in nearby Sarasota. Though it is about a 20- minute drive from Sarasota to Siesta Key, you may find more options that suit your family’s needs.

Friends have recommended Lido Beach Resort (oceanfront), and Embassy Suites by Hilton Sarasota (convenient downtown location, free breakfast, and happy hour).

People Also Ask

More Fun Things to Do in Siesta Key

Here’s a recap, plus some additional Siesta Key things to do that the entire family will love!

This list is a recap of all of the fun things to do in Siesta Key that are listed above – with a few additional Siesta Key activities that we’ve discovered on subsequent visits!

1. Go to Siesta Key Beach
2. Spend the day on Crescent Beach
3. Visit Turtle Beach
4. Snorkel at the Point of Rocks
5. Go parasailing with Parasail Siesta
6. Rent jet skis or a boat from CB’s Saltwater Outfitters
7. Go on a banana boat ride with Siesta Key Aqua Adventures
8. Rent a paddleboard from Siesta Key Paddleboards
9. Rent a kayak from Robinhood Rentals
10. Rent a Scooter Car from Ride and Paddle
11. Go on a dolphin cruise
12. Go shore fishing
13. Attend the Siesta Key Drum Circle
14. Go shopping in Siesta Key Village
15. Have breakfast at Another Broken Egg Cafe
16. Dine in Siesta Key Village
17. Eat mini donuts at Meany’s
18. Have ice cream at Big Olag Creamery in Siesta Key Village.
19. Listen to live music at Siesta Key Oyster Bar, The Cottage, or the Daiquiri Deck
20. Ride the free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley
21. Rent bikes or an electric bike to cruise the key
22. Rent a golf cart to get around the island
23. Watch the sunset at Sunset Point
24. Visit nearby towns like Sarasota, Lido Key, and Anna Maria Island
25. Check out Siesta Key’s annual events and festivals.
26. Visit the Siesta Key Farmer’s Markets that is open every Sunday from 8 AM – 12 PM in Siesta Key Village.
27. Get a massage at locally renowned Hands of Light Massage Therapy.
28. Go kiteboarding at Big pass, which is a body of water that’s located between North Siesta Key and South Lido Key.
29. Hunt for shark teeth at nearby Venice Beach
30. Play at a local playground
31. Stay at, our favorite, Siesta Key Surf & Racquet Club
32. Dine and check out the 1,000-gallon fish tank at Summer House Steak & Seafood
33. Go to “Oyster Happy Hour” ($8 for 1 dozen oysters from 3 PM – 6 PM every day!) at Siesta Key Oyster Bar

*All photos courtesy of VisitSarasota.com unless otherwise noted.

What activity or attraction do most look forward to in Siesta Key, Florida?

Jen

If you like our article on the best things to do in Siesta Key, Florida, click here to check out our Related Posts:

Sarasota, Florida:

• Complete 6-Day Sarasota Vacation Itinerary For Families
• 11 Best Things to Do in Sarasota While on Vacation
• Sarasota Kayak Tours (+Best Tips)

Siesta Key, Florida:

• The Ultimate Siesta Key Vacation Itinerary + Tips For Your Visit
• Siesta Key Parasailing: A Complete Guide for Kids & Adults
• 11 Best Restaurants in Siesta Key That You Must Try

The surrounding area:

• 8 Best Beaches to Find Shells in Florida
• 11 Best Things to Do on Anna Maria Island
• 11 Fun Things to Do in Tampa Bay (+3-Day Itinerary)
• The Ultimate Orlando Family Vacation Itinerary
• 9+ Fun Things to Do in Orlando That You’ll Love!

*Before leaving, be sure to check our Travel Resources Page to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

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