Things to Do in Siesta Key

You’ve probably heard of Siesta Key because it’s often ranked one of the best beaches in the world, but what are some other things to do in Siesta Key? We’ll talk about that today.

Please note that this post was published just one week before Hurricane Ian devastated Southwest Florida. Although Siesta Key is not in as bad of shape as further south, it has sustained some damage. I will work over the next few weeks to keep this post updated with current information.

Siesta Key is a barrier island on the Gulf Coast of Florida. This beautiful island can be found to the west of Sarasota. It is one of the best places to stay near Sarasota.

If you have taken a vacation in Siesta Key before, you may be shocked at how small the island is. Siesta Key is only 8 miles long. but that doesn’t mean you won’t find yourself creating a long list of Siesta Key things to do.

Today, I will share all my favorite things to do in Siesta Key. By the time you are finished, you should be able to create a plan of what you will do when you choose to vacation in Siesta Key.

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Things to Do in Siesta Key

Here are 15 things to do in Siesta Key, in no particular order.

1. Relax on Siesta Key Beach

One of the first things you should do in Siesta, Of course, this is to relax on Siesta Key Beach. This is a no-brainer because you are on vacation!

The sand on this beach is so soft because it’s actually quartz, which is why it is so soft and powdery. It is best to arrive at this beach really early in the morning or later in the day. Siesta Key Beach can get quite crowded.

Most people seem to set up their blankets and chairs in the center. So, to avoid all the people, head off to one of the sides. It’s a HUGE beach with plenty of room to spread out.

This is an excellent beach for building sandcastles, kitesurfing, and swimming. When the kids ared of the sand, you can all head over to the Kids Playground.

If you want to check out the other local beaches, they include Turtle Beach and Crescent Beach. You might spot some sea turtles on the beaches in Siesta Key. You can also check out the 10 best places to see sea turtles in Florida if you love sea turtles and can’t get enough of them!

2. Take a Dolphin Tour

Being so close to the Gulf of Mexico, you are guaranteed to see dolphins at some point. A favorite way to see them up close is taking a dolphin tour. There are a few different tour options. I recommend one that lasts half a day and allows you to see the sights, plus the dolphins.

3. Go Shopping in the Village

Siesta Key Village is one of the best places to go shopping. So, if you love shopping on vacation, add this to your list of things to do in Siesta Key.

You will find beach gear, jewelry, decor, and souvenirs in the shops. There is even an art gallery to wander through.

The local farmer’s market is also located in the Village. You will be able to shop at the market every Sunday. Don’t skip the coffee truck at the market. It is just what you will need to start your day off on the right foot!

4. Go Parasailing

Parasailing is one of the most adrenaline-filled things to do in Siesta Key. You can almost see the entire island as you hover above the water.

5. Eat Donuts at Meaney’s Mini Donuts

Since you are on vacation, you might as well eat a donut or two! Meaney’s Mini Donuts is the best place to get a few donuts in Siesta Key.

With donuts like peanut butter cup, Bavarian cream, chocolate delight, and apple pie, the wait is worth it!

6. Go Kayaking in the Mangroves

You will need to travel over to Ted Sperling Park and Nature Preserve to go Kayaking in the mangroves. However, the experience is worth the drive!

You can kayak on your own. Or you can take a guided tour to learn more about the area.

By the way, while we didn’t list Siesta Key in the 12 best places to see manatees in Florida, it’s very possible to see them here!

7. Ride a Bike

An amazing way to see the entire island is by bicycle. If pedaling a bike doesn’t sound fun, you can always rent an electric bike. I recommend the electric bike tours.

8. Take a Ride on the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley

The Siesta Key Breeze Trolley offers free rides to many destinations on the island. The rides are offered every day of the week from 10 am until 10 pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, the trolley rides go until midnight.

The trolley route goes from the Village to Turtle Beach. Pick-ups and drop-offs occur all along the route.

While the trolley normally runs in 30 minutes intervals, it does seem to run more often during the busier times of the year.

9. Go Snorkeling at Point of Rocks

At the southern end of Crescent Beach is where you will find Point of Rocks. Simply walk all the way to the sea wall. Then climb the sea wall until you turn the corner. From there, all you need to do is walk down the 3 steps into the water.

The water there is 5 feet deep and filled with all types of marine life. If you love snorkeling, this is the best place to do it on Siesta Key.

10. Watch the Siesta Key Drum Circle

The Siesta Key Drum Circle is held every Sunday evening on Siesta Key Beach. It normally occurs one hour before sunset.

This traditional event includes music and dancing. Costumes, hula hoops, and instruments are handed out to anyone who is interested in participating in the fun.

Don’t worry; you can sit back and watch if you want.

11. Watch the Sunset at Sunset Point

You can watch the sunset anywhere while on vacation in Siesta Key. But why not capture this breathtaking moment at Sunset Point?!

Sunset Point is located at the northern end of Siesta Key Beach.

12. Venture Over to Beer Can Island

Beer Can Island is also known as Greer Island. This island is located in Longboat Key, on the northern end.

Walk through the mangrove forests until you reach a magnificent beach area. Bring a hammock with you. There are trees there, and many of them will hold a hammock. There’s nothing better than relaxing as you let the breeze sway the hammock for you.

13. Embrace Tranquility at St. Boniface Labyrinth

This labyrinth can be found in the courtyard of St. Boniface Church. It is modeled after the labyrinth over at the Chartres Cathedral, which is in France.

If you’re with kids, you probably won’t have much quiet, but the stillness of the area will be rewarding nonetheless.

There are no rules for walking the paths of the labyrinth. However, the goal is to walk with one foot in front of the other. You may get the kids to quiet down as they attempt to do this!

14. Get Pampered at the Siesta Healing Spa

Numerous services are offered at the Siesta Healing Spa. If you are trying to find a few pampering moments during your vacation, this is one of the top things to do in Siesta Key.

Call ahead to book an appointment for a day when you know you will have a little downtime on vacation.

15. Visit Sarasota

Siesta Key is located just outside of Sarasota. There are plenty of things to do in Siesta Key, but you can always head to Sarasota for even more options. Don’t worry, a blog post about things to do in Sarasota coming soon!

15 things to do in Siesta Key

These are some of the best things to do in Siesta Key. Did I miss anything? If so, let me know in the comments so I can add it to the list! We are content just to go and hang out on the beach, but there are plenty of other things to do too!

More Florida Travel Tips

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Florida Travel with Kids was started by a family who loves to travel the state of Florida with kids! This site will help you explore the fun state of Florida and all of the kid-friendly activities you’ll find here.

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15 fantastic things to do in Siesta Key

Things to Do in Siesta Key

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