Siestas Key is a barrier island eight miles long, parallel to the city of Sarasota. Two bridges link the island to the mainland. The North Bridge, Siesta Drive, provides convenient access to the culture and nightlife of downtown Sarasota, while the South Bridge at Stickney Point Road, links you to great discount shopping.

Renowned for its powdery white sand, Crescent Beach has been rated as one of the “Top 10 Beaches in the World”. Located at the mid-point of Crescent Beach is a designated public beach called Siesta Beach. Florida Trend Magazine has named Siesta Beach “The Best Beach in the State of Florida”! From the parking lot, wooden footbridges cross over sea oats and sea grapes where wild rabbits enjoy a morning feast. The beach facilities include sheltered picnic areas, restrooms, concession stands, lifeguards, volleyball courts, tennis courts, a softball field, tree shaded playground and fitness trail.

At the southern end of Crescent Beach is Point-of-Rocks where snorkelers are seduced by the colorful sea life among limestone rock formations.

Farther south on the island is Turtle Beach, which is a lot less crowded and a peaceful place to just relax and unwind.

Along Midnight Pass Road to the south and along Beach Road to the north of Crescent Beach are several public gulf accesses with minimal parking for fishing, shell collecting and capturing a sunset.

Vacation rentals are numerous, offering the visitor a variety of choices in Resort Accommodations. For the energetic you’ll find excellent sail-boarding, fishing, and snorkeling. If you prefer more relaxation in your vacation, a personalized Sailing Charter might be more enticing.

There are about 1000 species of fish in the Gulf, bays, lakes, rivers and streams. You can go deep-sea trolling, drift fishing, surfcasting, bridge fishing or wading the grass flats. Non-residents need a fishing license unless you’re under 16 or on a boat charter. There are minimum lengths, limits and closed season restrictions. Licenses are available at the Sarasota County Courthouse or at local bait shops and sporting goods stores.

Venturing off the island, you may want to visit Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, located at the south end of Longboat Key. It is a world-renowned marine research center. The aquarium offers a fascinating array of local sea life for viewing. The 30-foot Touch Tank and 135,000-gallon Shark Tank and Manatee Center bring visitors face to face with a variety of shark species, fish and marine mammals.

Rounding out the recreational opportunities, there’s rollerblading, bicycling, Golf and tennis. For spectator sports, baseball is the main attraction. The Cincinnati Reds are here for spring training in February and March while the Sarasota Red Sox offer an exciting summer schedule.

Siesta Key is not only a tourist destination, it is also a prime residential area. With miles of canals, lush tropical foliage and spectacular beach and bay views, Siesta Key is the perfect place for a permanent or seasonal home. Check the Real Estate listings and Retirement Living section for personal, professional assistance.

In case you forgot your bathing suit, need a souvenir or are just in the mood to browse, you’ll find a wonderful selection of boutiques as well as excellent dining. The best breakfast and lunch can only be found at The Broken Egg.

Out of the way, out of the ordinary and easily accessible!

Come and be dazzled by this enchanting paradise!

Siesta rentals