Siesta Key vacation rentals

Siesta Key is an eight-mile-long barrier island off the coast of Sarasota, known for its soft quartz beaches, turquoise waters, and abundance of marine life. Due to its location on the western Florida shoreline in the balmy waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the island experiences ideal conditions year-round for swimming, paddling, and watersports. This small coastal community offers a host of recreational opportunities outside of the beach as well. Wander the Siesta Key Village, where you can find the many live music venues, boutique art shops, and souvenir vendors scattered throughout the small but lively downtown area. Check out one of the weekly farmer’s markets, spend an afternoon picking through the gift shops, or just lounge one the one of the white-sand beaches waiting for the sun to set over the Gulf.

Thanks to the island's location in the Gulf of Mexico, weather conditions and water temperatures are favorable for most of the year. Beginning in March, temperatures start to rise, with averages peaking around mid October. You can expect heat and humidity at your Siesta Key rental during this period, but gulf stream breezes help keep things cool. Weekly farmers markets, a musical festival, and a fireworks show are just a few of the notable events happening through the summer season.

In winter, temperatures see a marginal decrease, with January and February being the coldest months. However, many still find both the air and water temperatures suitable for swimming. The winter also happens to be when many of the area’s art festivals take place. Check out the Chalk Art Festival towards the end of October or the sand sculpture competition in November where you can take sculpting classes and vote on your favorite piece of art.

Point of Rocks

One of the best snorkeling sites on Siesta Key, this limestone rock outcropping is home to abundant marine life and migratory bird populations. Calm waters and clear conditions make this a perfect place for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. Expect to see schools of tropical fish, crabs, ocean sponges, and manatees during the summer. You may even get lucky and spot some of the area’s resident dolphins.

Siesta Key Drum Circle

The Siesta Key drum circle is a weekly tradition held on Sundays at Englewood and Siesta beaches throughout the year. Beginning about an hour before sunset, local artists and dancers kick off an evening of music and dancing. Large crowds gather to watch the festivities as onlookers are encouraged to dance or grab a drum and beat along.

Deep-sea fishing

Sandwiched between the vast Gulf of Mexico and Roberts Bay, Siesta Key is a year-round fishing destination. The reefs attract cobia and grouper, and if you venture further out you’ll be rewarded with tuna and wahoo. July is peak season for red snapper, while the fall bait migration off the Florida coast is a big draw for anglers from October onward.