14 Best Things To Do In Siesta Key Florida

Located off of Florida’s Gulf Coast just south of Sarasota, Siesta Key is an itty bitty barrier island with a lot to offer. Bigger isn’t always better, and Siesta Key’s small size is actually part of what makes it so desirable. Home to one of the best beaches in the country, blissful weather, and some seriously epic sunsets, this small island packs a big punch. 

The gorgeous sandy beaches are obviously a highlight here, but there are plenty of other things to do in Siesta Key, no matter what type of traveler you are. From exhilarating watersports and lively drum circles to quiet stretches of sand and local farmers markets, here are some of the best things to do in Siesta Key, Florida.

Hit The Beach

No matter what brings you to Siesta Key, you’ll likely hit the beach at least once while you’re here. Siesta Key Beach has been rated one of the best beaches in the entire country, so it’s a great place to start. With such high praise comes pretty big crowds, so try to get here early and avoid weekends if you want a more peaceful experience. 

If the hustle and bustle of Siesta Key is too much for you, there are plenty of other spots to sink your toes in the sand. Crescent Beach is a great alternative, and while the sand isn’t as soft, the crowds are certainly more sparse. Turtle Beach is the perfect in-between, with soft sand, fewer people, and some great amenities. 

Watch A Sunset At Sunset Point

If you want to extend your beach day, one of the best things to do in Siesta Key is to catch a sunset. The west facing beaches create the perfect conditions for epic sunsets, so be sure to squeeze at least one in during your stay. 

Sunset Point is an aptly named spot for watching the sun go down. This spot sits on the northern end of Siesta Key Beach, just in front of the Tropical Breeze Resort. Note that there are no lifeguards at Sunset Point, so enter the water at your own risk. 

Ride The Free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley

Instead of renting a car and worrying about parking during your vacation, you can hop on the free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley! The trolley stops by all the main points of interest, starting at Siesta Village in the north and traveling down to Turtle Beach on the island’s southern end. 

The route follows two of the busiest roads on the island (Beach Road and Midnight Pass Road), so you’ll get to see all the sites without worrying about finding a parking place. The best part is that the trolley is completely free and runs from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm daily.

Kayak Through The Mangroves

One of the best things to do in Siesta Key is to kayak through the mangroves in Lido Key, which sits just north of the island. This is no ordinary kayaking experience – the mangrove trees have grown so dense here that tunnels were eventually created along the waterway, creating a verdant maze for paddling. 

As you paddle, you’ll have the chance to see some unique wildlife, including dolphins and manatees if you’re lucky! You can rent kayaks or stand up paddleboards from one of the many outfitters on Lido Key, or book a tour with a local guide who will help you navigate and point out local flora and fauna along the way.

Visit Siesta Key Village

Ready for a break from the beach? Spend an afternoon wandering around Siesta Key Village. Popular with locals and vacationers alike, the village features top-rated restaurants and fun shopping opportunities. 

The village sits on the island’s northwest end, and it’s the first stop on the free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley. Spend some time walking around this charming area and visit art galleries, shop for souvenirs, and grab a bit to eat once you work up an appetite.

Take A Day Trip To Anna Maria Island

If you’re running low on things to do in Siesta Key and want to switch it up a bit, take a day trip to Anna Maria Island. Located about 25 miles north of the key, Anna Maria Island is brimming with fun activities and attractions. 

There are more spectacular beaches, award-winning restaurants, a charming downtown area, and more to keep you busy for an afternoon or a full weekend.

Snorkel At Point Of Rocks

The crystal clear water along the coast makes Siesta Key a great spot for snorkeling. The beaches don’t offer much in the way of underwater scenery, but Point of Rocks is the perfect place for a little underwater exploration. 

This half-mile-long limestone slab sits on the southern end of Crescent Beach and plays host to myriad marine life, including vibrant tropical fish, small octopus, sea sponges, crustaceans, and more! Even if you’re a beginner, fear not. The water is only 20 feet at its deepest. 

Note that you will need to bring your own gear (including water shoes!) as there are no outfitters in the area.

Go Fishing

One of the best things to do in Siesta Key is throw out a line and see what you can catch. The fishing here is excellent, whether you’re joining a fishing charter or casting out from the scenic shoreline. 

If you do choose to fish right off the beach, make sure you choose a quiet spot away from the crowds. Your best bet is the south end of Siesta Key Beach, or anywhere on Crescent Beach or Turtle Beach. Note that you will need a Florida fishing license if you’re fishing on your own.

Try Parasailing

When you’re this close to the water, you’ll likely want to spend as much time on it as you can. If you tire of lazy beach days, you can turn the action up a notch and participate in some water sports. 

Parasailing is one of the best things to do in Siesta Key, as you’ll be able to get the adrenaline pumping AND take in some spectacular views along the way. You may even spot dolphins, manatees, and local shorebirds while you’re in the air. 

If you’re not a fan of heights, there are plenty of other water sports available. You can rent jet skis, pontoons, paddleboards, and more from various outfitters around the island.

Browse Siesta Key Village Farmer’s Market

The Siesta Key Village Farmer’s Market a great spot to take a break from the beach. You can pick up some fresh produce for your stay, grab a bite to eat, or peruse other stalls with handmade art, jewelry, soap and more. 

The market sits in the Siesta Key Village Sundays from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Rent Bikes

Looking for a fun way to get around the island? Rent some bikes! At just eight miles long, you can easily cycle your way around the entire island, and you’ll be treated to some great scenery along the way!

Not only is biking a great way to see the island, but it also allows you to get to and from the most popular spots without worrying about parking. Win-win!

Visit The Circus

The nearby city of Sarasota has a rich circus history. The Ringling Brothers made the area their winter home in the 1920s, and the history lives on to this day. 

The Circus Arts Conservatory puts on quite a show for visitors, though it’s no ordinary circus performance. You can choose from a variety of shows, including a European-style traditional Big Top, a historic theater, or the Sailor Circus Arena. Visiting the Ringling is one of the best things to do in Sarasota.

Visit Beer Can Island

If you’re searching for hidden gems, one of the best things to do in Siesta Key is to take a trip out to Beer Can Island. It’s roughly 45 minutes north of the island, but you’ll feel worlds away on the unspoiled shores of Beer Can Island. 

This serene spot welcomes you with a gorgeous white sand beach, which is typically littered with massive deposits of driftwood. Further inland, there are lush mangrove forests, creating a stark contrast to the sparkling white beach and turquoise blue ocean. 

You can reach the island by boat or by land via the scenic Longboat Key Bridge.

Dine

Last but certainly not least, one of the very best things to do in Siesta Key is eat. After a long day of exploring, there’s nothing better than sitting down for a good meal, and the island has plenty of places to choose from. 

Check out Anna’s Deli for world-famous sandwiches, Village Cafe for breakfast, the Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB) for oysters and good bar food, and Meaney’s Mini Donuts for dessert. These are just a few local favorites, and there are plenty of other options for every type of diner.