This Spring Break, Trade the Snow for the Sand in Siesta Key

Spring break is the perfect time to escape the snowy cold and embrace the warm southern sun – and not much beats the crystal-quartz sand, which – get this – was carried down by ancient rivers from the Appalachian Mountains over millions of years. The quartz flowed down to west coast Florida and over time, the sand accumulated on the shores of Siesta Key.

But what makes it so special? The minute you step foot in the sand, you'll notice a baby powder-like consistency that is silky-soft to the touch (and doesn't stick to your skin like most sand does), a coolness when walked on (the quartz reflects the sun and keeps it from getting hot underfoot like other beaches) and a pure-white color reminiscent of fresh-fallen snow (without the wind frost or freezing temps). 

Add in the stunning turquoise waters, lively island atmosphere and endless dining and attractions, and you've got some happy spring breakers. Whether you're visiting with the family or a group of friends, this award-winning Gulf Coast destination offers something for the travelers that just want to chill and the ones that want to see and do it all. 

Winner of Many Awards

Siesta Beach is the "#1 Beach in the U.S." according to Tripadvisor

Siesta Key Beach isn't just a local favorite – it’s nationally (and internationally) recognized. And for good reason... Over the years, it has received numerous mentions and accolades, which are no surprise to visitors who experience Siesta Key’s natural beauty firsthand.

• In 2011 and 2017, Siesta Key Beach was dubbed "America's Best Beach" by Dr. Beach in his annual ranking –  "With some of the finest, whitest sand in the world, this beach attracts sand collectors from all over. Siesta Beach has clear, warm waters ideal for swimming, and is hundreds of yards wide in the shape of a crescent due to anchoring of onshore rocks to the south."
• In 2020, it earned second place as one of the 10 Best Beaches for Families by Family Vacation Critic® – noting it as a top destination for multigenerational vacations for its many attractions, all-ages activities and pick of ice cream shops.
• In 2024, it also made the Condé Nast Traveler's list as one of the Best Beach Towns on the East Coast – highlighting its cool-to-the-touch, reflective quartz sand, waterfront dining options and exciting watersports. 
• Most recently, for 2025, it ranked #1 in the U.S. (up from #2 in 2024) and #4 in the World (up from #9 in 2024) in Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Awards for Best of the Best Beaches – "Kick back on the white sand, go swimming in the clear water, play some outdoor sports, or simply admire the sunset. The family-friendly beach is easy to get to via public transportation, offers wheelchair access, and has plenty of parking, restrooms, and a small concession stand."

Family-Friendly Factors

Unlike some bustling spring break destinations in Florida, Siesta Key offers a balance of fun and relaxation – making it perfect for families and traveling groups. 

Siesta Beach features four iconic, colored lifeguard stations: red, yellow, green and blue

• Siesta Beach is lifeguard-patrolled for extra safety, including colored flags to alert beachgoers of current water conditions.
• Public beach access points offer outdoor showers to wash off and plenty of parking. There are over 900 public parking spaces at 948 Beach Road on Siesta Key Beach. These spots are completely free but the lot fills up quickly when in season, so get to the beach early!
• Shallow waters and gentle, small waves make it ideal for younger swimmers and boogie boarders.
• Siesta Key Village is a walkable area filled with ice cream shops, boutique stores and fun activities for the whole family.
• The beaches are incredibly clean, and also wheelchair accessible (beach wheelchairs are available at the concessionaire from 9am - 4pm). A 450-foot ADA mobility mat provides a non-slip, stable wheelchair pathway onto the beach and straight out to the Gulf at Siesta Beach’s West Concession area. This mat is also great for pushing strollers or simply hauling beach carts full of toys and supplies. 
• The public pavilion features clean bathrooms/washrooms and an observation deck overlooking Siesta Key Public Beach where you can catch some shade. You'll also find the Sun Deck, a beach rental and concession restaurant where you can grab food, refreshments, shaded seating and rent umbrellas, cabanas, lounge chairs and more.

Grab nachos, piña coladas and floaties at Siesta Beach's Sun Deck 

What to Do on Siesta Beach

Siesta Beach is more than just a sunbather’s paradise – there are plenty of activities to keep you (or the kids) entertained:

• Explore the coastline of Siesta Key by electric bike with Sarasota Bike Tours, by kayak or paddleboard with Ride and Paddle, or by eFoil and Seabob with Sarasota eFoil.  
• Discover a different vantage point of the coastline by booking a birds-eye view on an exciting parasailing tour with CB's Saltwater Outfitters.
• Explore the nearby sandbars by renting a boat with Happy Go Lucky Siesta Key Boat Tours or by jetski with Siesta Key Watersports and leave the crowds on the beach by spending the entire day out on the water.
• Grab a blanket or beach chair and enjoy one of our famous Gulf Coast sunsets over the horizon while watching the kids boogie board or skimboard the easygoing waves. 
• Further south at Point of Rocks, get yourself a snorkel and mask to swim amongst colorful fish around this popular underwater spot. Or cast a line for some inshore fishing – you just may reel in a few of the locals. 
• Take a long, sandy stroll from Siesta Beach to Turtle Beach collecting beautiful seashells or washed-up treasures.
• Catch the Siesta Key Drum Circle on Sunday evenings, a unique, family-friendly beach event featuring live drumming, dancing and community fun at sunset.
• All ages enjoy the beach sports available, including public volleyball nets set up along Siesta Beach for some friendly matches and co-mingling. 

How to Get Here & Around

Siesta Key is easily accessible whether you’re arriving by plane or by car. Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is just a short 30-minute drive away, with many convenient, nonstop flights from major U.S. cities. Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) are also nearby options about an hour and a half away.

Allegiant and Visit Sarasota's new marine life-themed aircraft at SRQ Airport.  

If you're road-tripping here, Siesta Key is a convenient drive from I-75 with direct access at Exit 207 and Exit 205. Leave your worries back on the mainland once you cross over the Intracoastal Waterway via the scenic North or South Bridges. Depending on which bridge you take onto the key, you'll find yourself on either Siesta Drive and enter the north end of the island, which will eventually lead to the bustling Siesta Key Village and main Siesta Beach access points, or you'll drive Stickney Point Road into the south end of the key, which will lead you to the Turtle Beach, Crescent Beach and South Village area. 

The 77 Siesta Islander at Siesta Public Beach Park, courtesy of Sarasota County

If you're without a vehicle to drive around on the key, don't fret – you can take advantage of the new 77 Siesta Islander (formerly Siesta Key Breeze). The Sarasota County Breeze open-air trolley connects passengers to Downtown Sarasota, Siesta Key Village, Siesta Beach, South Village and Turtle Beach Park & Campground – free of charge! Check the website for nearby stops and daily schedules. Other options for getting around the key include rentable golf carts, beach cruisers, motor scooters/scooter cars and Sun Ride Pedicab.

Where to Eat in Siesta Key

From casual beachside bites and happy hour specials to elegant dining and exciting nights in the Village, Siesta Key has a range of delicious dining and drinking options for the spring breaker in all of us:

A lively night on Ocean Boulevard outside of Daiquiri Deck and Gilligan's Island Bar 

• Daiquiri Deck – A must-visit for frozen fruit daiquiris and laid-back island vibes.
• Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB) – Perfect for happy hour, oysters and live music in a beachy dive bar.
• The Cottage – A local favorite serving fresh seafood and craft cocktails in an upscale tiki setting.
• Blase Café – An Old Florida favorite with al fresco seating and a martini bar. Check out their pizza spot next door – 3.14 Pi.
• Cafe Gabbiano – A rustic-elegant Italian spot with a lengthy European wine list and farm-to-table menu. 
• Meaney’s Mini Donuts & Coffee House – Perfect for a quick, sweet treat or caffeine boost after a day at the beach.
• Miguel's – Tableside French cuisine meets the beach at this family-run restaurant known for its homemade desserts. 
• Captain Curt's Crab & Oyster Bar – A beloved tiki bar serving up famous clam chowder and live music.
• Turtle Beach Grill – Perfect for grabbing a sandwich and tropical drink while taking a break from the beach.
• Sun Garden Cafe – The perfect spot to start your day with a hearty breakfast or brunch and a mimosa. 
• Ophelia’s on the Bay – An upscale waterfront dining spot known for its elevated seafood dishes and stunning views.

Nestled on Little Sarasota Bay, Ophelia's waterside views are hard to beat.

Where to Stay in Siesta Key

Whether you prefer a beachfront resort in the heart of it all, a cozy vacation rental or a private villa tucked away in the more quiet neighborhoods, Siesta Key has accommodations to fit every traveler’s style and needs:

Photo courtesy of Ten35 Seaside Rentals

• Hotels & Resorts – There is no shortage of places to stay, from boutique hotel bungalows with a tropical island vibe to amenity-filled beach resorts for a more luxurious experience.
• Vacation Rentals & Condos – There are also plenty of short- and long-term rental options for families and bigger groups looking for a home-away-from-home experience.

• Campground – For budget-friendly travelers and outdoor lovers, pull up and park your RV or pitch a tent at Turtle Beach Campground (currently closed due to recent storms).