5 Siesta Key Outdoor Attractions: Connect With Nature, Local Culture

Siesta Key is located on the Gulf of Mexico across the bay from Sarasota, Florida. Its white sand and clear waters have helped the beach rank among America’s best beaches, according to TripAdvisor. In addition, the area houses several nearby attractions that represent Florida’s diverse ecosystem and wildlife. So, grab the sunglasses and check out the top Siesta Key outdoor attractions vacationers can’t miss.

Top 5 Siesta Key Outdoor Attractions to See During Vacation

Siesta Key Beach

Have fun collecting seashells, bodysurfing, or just relax and enjoy the great views. Siesta Key Beach is best known for its sand, which is 99 percent quartz. This means even on the hottest days, it stays cool to the touch. Vacationers enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, parasailing, snorkeling and swimming.

On Sunday evenings listen to the Siesta Key Drum Circle, a huge group that performs one hour before sunset. People from all walks of life come to play drums, dance and celebrate beach life. Don’t forget to stay for the sunset and take plenty of pics.

Burns Court

Drive across the bay to downtown Sarasota and find Burns Court, a collection of 1920s bungalows listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The bungalows were originally single-family homes, but now house a community of residences, local shops and restaurants. Here, laid-back living reigns, and even the speed limit is only 15 miles per hour. Vacationers will enjoy the relaxed vibes, friendly faces and some of the most popular gathering spots in Sarasota.

Myakka State Forest

Plan a hike or quiet day at Myakka State Forest in Sarasota. The forest consists of mesic flatwoods, longleaf pines and palmettos, offering a prime spot for hikes and horseback rides. Visitors will find over 40 miles of scenic trails and picnic tables located throughout the forest. While exploring the area, admire the Myakka River and Myakkahatchee Creek.

North Jetty Park

North Jetty Park, situated on the southern tip of Casey Key, offers one of the most exciting surf beaches in the area. Although, vacationers don’t have to surf to enjoy the park. Other popular activities include fishing, boating, horseback riding and swimming. Families with children also have access to a covered playground, restrooms and picnic facilities.

Tamiami Trail Scenic Highway

Road trips offer a way for people to spend time together and see new places. The Tamiami Trail Scenic Highway — which runs from Sarasota to Miami — provides a window into the history, culture and waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Measuring about 80 miles, plan to make the full drive or stop along the way at the eclectic shops and attractions. Three top spots outdoor lovers can’t miss are: the Everglades, Big Cypress National Preserve and Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park.

Need more Siesta Key outdoor attractions? Don’t miss the Crystal Classic, a sand-sculpting festival for all ages.