Welcome to

Siesta Key Beach

Sarasota, Florida

Voted the

Best Beach in the United States

Year After Year

Siesta Key Beach is a world-famous beach located on Siesta Key, just off the southwestern coast of Florida. It has been consistently named one of the best beaches in the world for its stunning white sand, crystal-clear waters, and an array of activities. Visitors to Siesta Key Beach come from all around the world to experience the unique and vibrant atmosphere, or to simply relax and enjoy the beauty of the beach. But what else is Siesta Beach known for? In this blog post, we will explore the various attractions and amenities that make Siesta Key Beach one of the most sought-after beaches in the world. We will discuss the amenities and activities available to beachgoers, as well as the unique culture and atmosphere that has made Siesta Key Beach a favorite destination for travelers. Finally, we will dive into the history of Siesta Beach and why it is such a popular spot year-round.

1. White Sand Beach

Siesta Beach is renowned for its white sand beach, which is made up of quartz crystals that reflect the light and brighten the sand. The powdery white sand is so soft and widespread that it is often compared to the finest flour. The sand is also cooler to the touch than your traditional beach sand, making it the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun's rays. The beach also has plenty of facilities for visitors, including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and beach umbrellas.

2. Calm Waters for Swimming

Siesta Beach is known for its calm waters, making it ideal for swimming. The water here is gently sloping, making it perfect for children and adults alike. The clear, warm waters make for a perfect day at the beach. The shallow waters and beach sand also make for a great place to try beach activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. The beach also has lifeguards on duty for extra safety. This makes it a great spot for families and friends to come and enjoy a day of swimming, beach activities, and relaxation.

3. Spectacular Sunsets

Siesta Beach is also known for its spectacular sunsets. Every evening, the sky is painted with an array of colors as the sun slowly sinks down below the horizon. Visitors flock to this beach for its famous sunsets, as well as the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you take a stroll down the beach or simply relax in a beach chair, you'll be mesmerized by the colors of the sunset and the reflection of the sun's light on the waves. It's an experience you won't soon forget.

4. Variety of beach activities

Siesta Beach is known for its wide variety of beach activities. From beach volleyball and swimming to kayaking and paddleboarding, there is something for everyone. Visitors can rent beach umbrellas and lounge chairs to relax in the sun, or they can engage in a thrilling game of beach bocce. The beach also provides access to the Gulf of Mexico, so those who are looking for an adventure can take a boat out to explore the nearby islands and coves.

5. Popular Tourist Destination

Siesta Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida. Located in Sarasota, Siesta Beach is renowned for its white quartz sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Siesta Beach also offers numerous recreational activities, such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, and volleyball. In addition, visitors of Siesta Beach will find plenty of shops and restaurants, as well as nearby attractions like Siesta Key Village, Mote Marine Aquarium, and St. Armands Circle. Whether you’re looking for a day of relaxation or a fun-filled vacation, Siesta Beach has something for everyone.

In conclusion, Siesta Beach has become well-known for its beautiful white sand, calm waters, and wide range of amenities. It's the perfect place to spend a day in the sun and relax. Whether it's swimming, fishing, kayaking, or just soaking up the sun, Siesta Beach has something for everyone. With all these wonderful features, it's no wonder why Siesta Beach is considered one of the best beaches in the world.

So... When you want to relax on a sandy beach with the sun warming your face while gentle waves lap against the shore, the name of the beach you should head to is Siesta Beach. Here’s a few more reasons why.

Top Four Reasons Why
You'll Love Siesta Key Beach:

Siesta Key Beach sand is pure white - Siesta Beach has the finest and the whitest sand found anywhere in Florida. But it's not just any ordinary sand... No, It is nearly 100% pure quartz crystals that are almost as fine and soft as powder. In fact the sand is so pure that it often squeaks when you walk on it. And because the sand is so white, it never gets hot, even under Florida's intense summer sun. And will also find there are also no piles of sharp, broken shells, so it always feels comfortable on bare feet.
Calm, clear, safe water for swimming - Siesta Beach is famous for its gently sloping beach. The water stays shallow a long way out and is almost always clear and very calm. This means you can see what you are stepping on and you won't get knocked down by big waves. While we all appreciate these qualities in a vacation beach, older folks and families with small children will feel especially comfortable here.
Long flat beach for walking - Do you like to take long walks on the beach? Siesta Key's Public Beaches are the best Gulf coast beach for long walks because the beach is so flat, and mainly because the sand is packed so firmly by the water's edge. Siesta Key's nearly three miles of white sand beaches are perfect for riding your bike on the beach, jogging, or even pushing a baby stroller.
All the amenities - Siesta's Public Beach facility has you covered. Our lifeguards and beach patrol are second to none. There is a full-service food and drink concession along with covered tables will make sure you get all the nourishment you need without having to leave the beach. And if you want to leave the beach for lunch but don't want to lose your parking spot, just call one of the open-air, free (tips only) electric taxis which serve the entire island. If you are mobility-challenged and need a little help getting across the sand, special beach wheelchairs are available that will easily get you down to the water's edge. Showers, restrooms, changing areas, volleyball nets, picnic tables, a children's playground; Siesta Key Public Beach has it all.

Siesta Public Beach Amenities Include:

Public restrooms, snack bar & gift shop
Showers and handicap ramps
Picnic areas with & without roofs
Picnic shelters & tables (8 - family size shelters)
Gazebos (holds up to 60 people)
Large shelter (holds up to 120 people)
Free lighted public tennis courts
Volleyball courts (on the beach)
20 station fitness trail
Playground equipment
Tennis
Pickleball
Lifeguards on duty year round
Handicap beach chairs/wheel chairs available
First aid

Siesta Key Beach Facts

Geologically the sand on Siesta Key Beach originated in the Appalachian Mountains and flowed into the Gulf of Mexico millions of years ago, then moved down the coast to its present location.
It was recognized at the "Great International White Sand Beach Challenge" in 1987 for having the "whitest and finest sand in the world."
Siesta Key Beach originally contained 9-acres and approximately 1200 feet of Gulf frontage.
In the early 1970's, the county purchased additional acres to the south, increasing the beach size to about 101-acres.
The Beach Pavilion, originally designed by Tim Siebert from the Sarasota School of Architecture, was dedicated in the spring of 1960. This building was recognized for its use of low maintenance materials.
Siesta Beach is a National Healthy Beach, and is certified as a "Blue Wave" beach by the Clean Beaches Council.
Rated "One Of The Best Walking Beaches in the USA," by USA Today International Edition; and “The Best of the Best Sand” by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine.
In 2004 the Travel Channel named it "The Best Sand Beach in America" because of its 99% pure quartz sand that stays cool under your feet.
In 2011, Siesta Beach was rated as the #1 beach in the United States by "Dr. Beach", a.k.a. Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, director of Florida International University's highly respected Laboratory for Coastal Research.
Voted No. 2 in US on Dr. Beach's annual list 2016
VOTED #1 BEACH in the U.S. and No. 5 in the world by TripAdvisor 2017 and 2020

More about the Siesta Beach Sand...

Siesta Beach's sand is 99% quartz, most of which comes from the Appalachian Mountains.

Siesta Beach is renowned for its soft white quartz sand, which has been lovingly described as powdered sugar. But what makes Siesta Beach's sand so special? It's actually 99% quartz - the same mineral found in many of the Appalachian Mountains' rocks and gems. This quartz is the result of eroded sediment from the Appalachian Mountains that was deposited in the Gulf of Mexico over the course of millions of years. The quartz is then broken down and transported to the shore of Siesta Beach, creating the soft and silky sand that makes this beach so unique. The quartz also reflects the sun's light, giving the sand a dazzling white hue.

The quartz sand reflects light and temperature.

The quartz sand at Siesta Beach is remarkable and known for its softness and its ability to reflect light. When exposed to direct sunlight, the sand’s tiny grains seem to sparkle, creating a beautiful effect. The shining quartz sand also retains its cool temperature, making it a favorite spot to sunbathe. Its softness is also a draw - visitors can sink their feet comfortably into the sand, giving them a feeling of relaxation and bliss.

Soft texture of the sand

Siesta Beach's soft white quartz sand is a real treat for the senses. The sand is so soft and powdery that it gently caresses your toes as you take a leisurely stroll along the shore. It's a feeling you won't find anywhere else. This luxurious sand is due to its unique composition of fine-grained quartz particles that are incredibly light and soft. This unique texture creates a cushion between your feet and the ground, providing an incredibly comfortable experience.

These pure white sands have helped land Siesta Beach the #1 spot in the United States

Siesta Key Beach is an iconic destination that has become a popular destination for beachgoers from all over the world. This is thanks to its beautiful white quartz sand that is so soft and fine that it feels like walking on a cloud. The unique pure white sands are what have helped land Siesta Key Beach the #1 spot in the United States for the best beach in 2021 according to Dr. Beach. The sand is made up of 99% quartz, making it one of the whitest beaches in the world. The fine powder-like texture of the sand not only feels wonderful on your feet, but also helps to reflect light and keep the beach feeling cooler than other beaches. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind or to catch some sun, Siesta Beach is the perfect spot.

In conclusion, Siesta Key Beach is well-known for its beautiful soft white quartz sand, making it a popular destination for beachgoers from around the world. Its amenities make it an ideal setting for a day of relaxation, and its stunning views make it the perfect place to watch the sunset. With its breathtaking beauty and endless activities, it's no wonder Siesta Beach is one of the top beaches in the world.

ATTENTION: This is only a informational site and not associated with any government organizations.

Siesta Key Transportation

Siesta Key Breeze Trolley

The Siesta Key Breeze Trolley is a transportation service which is free for all riders. It operates seven days a week which makes getting around Siesta Key convenient. The Trolley route follows Ocean Boulevard to Beach Road and down Midnight Pass Road. You can hop on the Trolley at the Gazebo in Siesta Key Village or at any Trolley stop between the Villages, or just flag down the Trolley south of Stickney Point Road.

Trolley hours: Daily 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Download the Trolley app from the Google Play or App Store. Then you can see where the Trolley is and the approximate time it will arrive at your location.

On Demand

Sarasota County also offers OnDemand service between the Key and the mainland (at both the north and south bridges) and from tip to tip of Siesta Key. OnDemand operates daily and charges $1.25 per person, per trip. You can visit the Sarasota County OnDemand webpage for more info, to review the Siesta Key zone map and to access the OnDemand app and their booking phone number.

Visit the OnDemand website

Request Siesta Key Area Information