One of the most popular places within the state is Siesta Key – a barrier island off the coast of the state that has much to offer both tourists and locals alike.
But what are the best things to do in Siesta Key, and what makes it so special?
Where Is Siesta Key?
Located within the state of Florida, Siesta Key is a barrier island located between Roberts Bay and the Gulf of Mexico – although technically a part of the municipality of the city of Sarasota, Florida.
Having been a developed tourist island since the early 1900s, Siesta Key was initially only reachable via ferry – however, following the creation of the first bridge in 1917, the island became much more accessible to the mainland.
Remaining a popular tourist destination to this day, people flock from all over the United States for the beaches, sights, activities, and areas of natural beauty.
The Top 10 Activities In Siesta Key
Now that we know a little more about Siesta Key, and the history behind this beautiful island, it is not time to take a closer look at what makes the place so special, and some of the best activities and sights to experience during your stay.
First on our list is Siesta Beach – the most popular beach on Siesta Key, and one of the best places to really capture the life and character of this beautiful island.
A great spot for a lazy, relaxing day in the sun, or to bring your little ones for the perfect low-budget adventure, the Siesta Beach really is a beautiful location – perfect for watching the ocean, the watersports, and the cruise ships that frequently stop throughout the area.
For those seeking a little culture, the John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art is a great place to check out.
With beautiful gardens, stunning architecture, and some of the best local art in the region, this really is a great day out for all those interested in art, culture, and the local history of Siesta Key.
Address: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243-2161
Florida as a whole is teeming with nature, and it really does have a lot to offer to both tourists and locals alike.
However, if you are looking for the perfect place to celebrate the best and brightest within the state’s flora, then the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are right up your alley.
Offering up close and personal experiences with local, natural plants, a collection of open air plants from around the world, and even local history, these botanical gardens are one of the best places in the city to chill out, have a stroll, and really immerse yourself in the nature that is so characteristic of this region.
For those interested in American automotive history, then the Sarasota Classic Car Museum is one you won’t want to miss.
With a collection of some of the oldest cars in the country, this museum is one for gearheads everywhere, and really offers a great, in-depth look at some of the finest preserved examples of American motoring.
Perfect for history buffs, or for those wanting to learn and enjoy an afternoon, this is really one of the best museums in the city.
Address: 5500 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243-2199
Another area that is great for nature lovers is the Oscar Scherer state park – a place perfect for hiking, encountering wildlife, and taking in the beautiful and strange plants that make up the park.
This really is a great place for those seeking to get away from the city for a while, and it offers a great way to experience nature up close and avoid the crowds.
For those looking to really experience what rural Florida has to offer, this is the place you want to try!
Address: 1843 S Tamiami Trl, Osprey, FL 34229-9663
Some of the first colonial settlers of the United States were the Spanish, and this is why there are so many Spanish influences in and around the state of Florida (see also “How To Become A Travel Writer In The United States“).
This is depicted at the Historic Spanish Point – a 30 acre museum and environmental center devoted to the history and natural beauty of this breathtaking region.
For those looking to relax, take in some natural beauty, and learn a thing or two in the process, then this is a really great day out for all the family.
For those museum lovers amongst you that are looking for something a little different, then the Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy might just be the place for you.
Equal parts art gallery and hands on learning museum, this really is a great place to bring children – who will undoubtedly be amazed by the sheer sense of color and joyful absurdity that the place has in spades.
This really does feel like something out of Alice in Wonderland, and you will find yourself enchanted with a sense of wonder that you will take with you and keep for years to come.
Address: 2121 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34234-8344
If you are looking for a great beach, albeit without the busyness of Siesta Beach, then Crescent Beach is the one for you.
Offering a secluded, relaxing, and romantic place to hide away from the noise and the bustle of the city, Crescent Beach is not only a great beach, but also a place of staggering beauty – giving you the perfect place to kick back, relax, and enjoy one another’s company.
This is also a great place to explore local cuisine, take in the sights and shops, or take a dip in the crystal blue waters of the ocean when the heat gets a little too much.
If you are an animal lover, then you just have to check out the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary in Sarasota – offering an up close encounter with some of the most loveable and amazing animals in the world.
Their speciality is big cats – as the name suggests – and here you can see some great examples of Bengal tigers thriving and happy.
This really is a great place, and it does a lot for conservation of endangered species, ensuring that we can enjoy their presence for even more years to come.
This is a great place to bring the children, or indeed people of any age, and it is a relaxing, wholesome way to spend an afternoon in the heart of Sarasota.
Last, but by no means least, we have the Point of Rocks – a rare geographic location wherein you can witness and spot all manner of animal and marine life in the wild.
This really does have it all, and is even next to a scenic, quaint beach where you can further enjoy the bounties that nature provides.
For anyone interested in wildlife, nature, and the sheer breathtaking beauty of Siesta Key, then the Point of Rocks really is something to check out.
Address: 7132 Point Of Rocks Circle, Siesta Key, FL 34242
Final Thoughts
And there we have it, everything you need to know about Siesta Key, and the 10 most amazing activities and sights that are definitely worth the money (see also “Amazing Things To Do In Cocoa Beach“).
It’s true that the state of Florida has much to offer – both to locals and tourists alike – however, the barrier island of Siesta Key goes to show that some places just have more to offer than others.
So if you happen to find yourself in Siesta Key, then give some of these activities a try. Something tells me you won’t be disappointed!
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that we know a little more about the best activities and sights in Siesta Key, it is time to answer some frequently asked questions that you might be interested in.
Is Siesta Key Expensive?
When compared to other towns in both the state and the country, Siesta Key is considered to be average in terms of expensiveness and cost of living.
When Is The Best Time To Visit?
The best time to visit Siesta Key is in the springtime, when the climate is much more gentle and ambient – not to mention less humid than is usual for Florida.
Hello, it’s great to have you here. My name is Julia and I am a travel blogger! I have been writing all of my life, and previously worked for a travel agency where I would recommend the best places to visit in the states.
If you are ready to take on the world, explore the sights, and see some of the most incredible places on offer, then take a look at some of my articles!
