Skip to Content

34 Best & Fun Things To Do In Siesta Key (Florida)

The gorgeous barrier island of Siesta Key is situated just off the southwest coasts of Florida, where it sits pretty between the Gulf of Mexico and Roberts Bay.

A portion of it lies within the city of Sarasota, though most of it is simply a part of the larger Sarasota County.

The island’s current name didn’t come about until 1952, and it was a bit of an uphill battle to attempt to develop the island for tourism and other purposes. 

Siesta Key, which is technically a census-designated place, spans a relatively small area of just about 3.5 square miles, within which are four primary districts.

As you’ve probably guessed, the key is most famous for its stunning beaches, gorgeous marine life, and amazing watersports opportunities, though there is a fair bit of history and culture to explore as well.

Not sure what you can do while you’re visiting this paradise?

Here are our picks for the 34 best and fun things to do in Siesta Key, Florida.

1. Siesta Key Beach

Siesta Key Beach

Suncoast Aerials / Shutterstock

Siesta Key Beach is considered one of the best beaches in all of the United States in America – and even the world!

It’s family-friendly and is among the perfect places to go for people of all ages to enjoy all the common and essential beach activities.

Florida is simply filled with beaches along its coast, so for one of them to be considered the greatest is a huge compliment and an indication of a good place to be.

Siesta Key Beach is renowned for its delightfully soft sand that consists of 99% quartz.

This creates a sensation like walking on fine powder, and you’d be hard-pressed to find softer sand on any beach!

You’ll get to build sand castles, swim or wade in the water, sunbathe, and do all sorts of watersports.

The waters are a stunning cobalt blue that looks right out of a postcard!

The beach is open from early to late, with peak hours from 11 am to 4 pm.

It’s one of the free things to do in the area, so expect it to be quite crowded, especially on weekends.

Amenities are quite modern, with showers, a volleyball court, and bike racks, and lifeguards are on duty during most busy hours.

There are also provided beach wheelchairs, plenty of picnic areas, beautiful pavilions, spacious shelters, and even a playground for kids to enjoy!

You can buy some snacks from the full-service bar if you get hungry.

Address: 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key, FL 34242

2. Parasail Siesta

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Florida, parasailing is one of the most popular high-adrenaline activities that you can enjoy at Siesta Key.

Numerous spots across this barrier island in Florida have companies that offer tours and experiences related to this extreme sport.

Some are situated within the island, and others can be found at Anna Maria Island or Sarasota.

Not sure what parasailing is?

Also known by other names such as parakiting, parascending, and even paraskiing, this is a recreational kiting experience.

You ride a securely-attached canopy wing called a parasail wing that looks like a parachute, and you are then towed behind a vehicle of some kind.

On the beach, that vehicle is most frequently a boat.

The tow rope lifts you into the air as the boat speeds off.

Parasailing will allow you to witness beautiful sweeping views of the gorgeous Gulf.

Aerial views of the cerulean ocean beneath will allow you to spot native seabirds, dolphins, and manatees that frolic and live in the habitat.

There are a number of different providers of this service, with one of the most popular being Parasail Siesta.

This company will bring you to 450-foot heights during two-hours tours.

People of most ages above five can enjoy parasailing, which has become one of the Siesta Key attractions in its own right!

Try sunset tours for an extra stunning experience.

Address: 1250 Stickney Point Rd, Siesta Key, FL 34242, United States

3. Point of Rocks

One of the top 10 places to visit to snorkel in all of Florida, Point of Rocks is a stunning location formed from a collection of limestone rocks that serves as a hotbed for various sea creatures.

These formations may also be made of quartz and molluscan grindstone, and the whole place is believed to be around 4,300 years old.

It’s never too crowded and almost feels like a private piece of land, so it’s amazing that it’s one of the island’s free things to do!

Point of Rocks isn’t the easiest spot to get to, but avid snorkelers will find it to be well worth the trouble.

It’s easiest to access the site from Crescent Beach.

Head to its southernmost end and keep walking until you hit a huge sea wall.

You’ll have to then climb along that wall until you can turn a corner, and then it’s a three-step walk down into the water.

Be aware that the rocks can get pretty slippery.

Once you’ve done this, you’ll be able to spot Point of Rocks fairly quickly.

Tide pools and rocks covered in moss are visible, some sticking out from the depths of the ocean.

The water here is just about five or so feet deep at most, and in most places, it only gets to waist level.

Still, it is home to an enormous range of marine life, such as crabs, sea sponges, and fish.

Also, tons of seashells make this a great place for avid collectors of shells.

Do note that you should wear water shoes or something similar when visiting Point of Rocks.

This is because the terrain consists almost entirely of coral and crushed shells.

The area is essentially like a small, little-known beach, so you’ll have a fun snorkeling and exploring this less-crowded place.

It’s said that pirates used to hide all sorts of treasure and gold dust here – maybe you can be lucky to find the legendary abandoned hiding hole at the point’s base!

Address: Siesta Key, FL, United States

4. Crescent Beach

Crescent Beach

Paul Massie Photography / Shutterstock

Crescent Beach is situated near Siesta Key Beach, just to the south by about a mile.

It’s easy to access, located along the normal main strip of this Florida barrier island, and the local trolley stops there on its journey.

This is an ideal spot for people seeking a way to escape the oppressive crowds of the more popular beach up north.

Crescent Beach’s sand may not be as fine and soft as its more popular neighbor’s, but it is still an enjoyable place to be.

It’s also popular among Siesta Key attractions because of its close proximity to many bars, restaurants, and entertainment sites that are just a stone’s throw away from the beach.

As usual, you can enjoy many typical beach excursions here, such as jet skiing, parasailing, swimming, sunbathing, and more.

The sand doesn’t get too hot thanks to its powdery fineness, so you can enjoy a relaxing stroll.

The waves are also quite shallow, making them family-friendly and suitable for young kids.

Address: Siesta Key, FL, United States

5. Siesta Key Village

There’s no way to talk about the enticing things to do in Siesta Key without mentioning the hub of Siesta Key Village!

This fantastic hotspot spans about four blocks and is filled with a hundred or so little shops, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and bars, all centrally located on the barrier island.

Whether you’re seeking some swim or watersports gear or are looking for a good bite to eat, this walkable “village” has you covered.

Siesta Key Village is the place to go to find souvenirs, decor, jewelry, tarot cards, and bohemian outfits.

Many of the items you’ll find are handcrafted, and tons are inspired by the ocean or boast Caribbean influences.

A lovely art gallery within the area is packed with the creations of local artists, such as photos, paintings, and even sculptures.

This so-called village also lights up at night with great music, dancing bars and clubs, awesome DJs, and fantastic drinks to help you get your party on.

All-in-all, this is a welcoming spot that will feel like home, with a relaxed vibe but plenty of vibrant things to enjoy.

In addition to all of that, this is a hotbed for all sorts of seasonal events and festivals, so if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to check out some cool cultural or otherwise interesting goings-on.

Address: 5145 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, FL 34242, United States

Planning a visit to Cape Coral, Clearwater, and Cocoa Beach? If you plan the trip, here are some fun things to do in Cape Coral, some of the best things to do in Clearwater, FL, and some top things to do in Cocoa Beach!

6. Turtle Beach

Turtle Beach

Joni Hanebutt / Shutterstock

As with any part of Florida, beaches are some of the best points of interest on this barrier island.

Turtle Beach is one of them – a favorite of the locals, but very much a hidden gem to visitors and tourists.

It’s a good spot for snorkeling and shell collecting, and anglers also enjoy fishing in the waters beyond the beach.

Turtle Beach is a relatively large expanse on the southern part of the island, serving as the local trolley’s final stop.

It boasts a big, tranquil park with its own pavilion, several tables for picnics, and more.

Some modern amenities include public restrooms, a boat ramp for small boats, and a campground with direct beach access.

You can also use the horseshoe pits, volleyball courts, and playgrounds.

Of course, it’s the beach itself that you’ll probably come to Turtle Beach for.

The sand is darker and rougher than the island’s more popular beaches, but it’s still a fantastic spot for families to play in the sand and rest on the shore.

The shoreline is notably more cliff-like and rugged, and the sand has more seaweed mixed in, which creates a lovely backdrop for adventurous types – or just those who want a little peace and quiet.

But why is the beach called Turtle Beach?

It is a nesting habitat for sea turtles, and you may spot a few loggerhead turtle nests in the sand.

From May to October, beach gear and other items like chairs and umbrellas are not allowed on the beach so that turtles can nest in peace!

Address: Siesta Key, FL, United States

7. Siesta Key Breeze Trolley

Not sure what to do in Siesta Key to get around the barrier island?

The Siesta Key Breeze Trolley provides the perfect solution.

It offers rides completely free of charge to anyone who boards and runs daily from 8 am to 10 pm.

On Fridays and Saturdays, its service extends till midnight!

And, yes, it operates every day of the year, even during holidays.

The trolley runs from Siesta Key Village to Turtle Beach, with some stops that you can be dropped off at or picked up from along its route.

South of Stickney Point, you can flag the trolley down anywhere, though north of that, it will only stop at designated bus stops.

The trolley is meant to run the route every half hour, but sometimes it goes even faster than that, which is quite impressive and convenient for tourists and locals alike.

The trolley is regulated by the SKAT, or the Sarasota County Area Transportation.

It’s a great option for people looking to explore the barrier island in a convenient way without spending extra on a taxi.

It’s also just a fun experience in general to ride the trolley, so guests to the area should ride it at least once!

Address: Siesta Key, FL, United States

8. Siesta Key Drum Circle

Sunday evenings are a special time on this barrier island.

You’ll be able to attend and witness a Siesta Key drum circle at the Siesta, Nokomis, and Englewood beaches.

This is one of the best things to see on the island, especially for those who want to immerse themselves in the various cultures of Florida.

These circles are also among the free things to do, and there is no charge to join the congregations of drummers.

The drums used in these circles vary in sound, size, and even shape, but the result is a beautiful tradition and a cacophony of magical rhythm and beats.

People from all walks of life come together by the dozen for these events.

Accompanying the circle are belly dancers, firebreathers, and other performers that make for an awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping live music experience. 

You don’t need to participate directly in these drum circles, but you’re very much encouraged to.

You’ll be given instruments, hula hoops, and costumes so that you can join in if you so desire.

Most of these events are family-friendly, too!

Address: 948 Beach Rd, Siesta Key, FL 34242, United States

9. Siesta Key Farmers Market

Siesta Key Farmers Market

Siesta Key Farmers Market

The Siesta Key Farmers Market opens each Sunday at 8 in the morning and runs until 12 noon.

Those who want to get in touch with what the locals do will find this to be one of the top things to do in Siesta Key.

Though it is relatively small compared to more well-known markets, it’s a good spot to grab some brunch and do a little shopping, sometimes while accompanied by live entertainment.

Farmers’ markets are an awesome way to gain insight into communities, and the Siesta Key Farmers Market is no exception.

You’ll get to browse baked goods, home decor, art pieces, jewelry, fresh and organic produce, and creative works made by local talent.

Many vendors are knowledgeable and have information to provide and advice to give about the environment and health.

Whether you’re seeking handmade gifts, artisanal food, or something unique, you’ll spot it here at the market.

There are even plenty of affordable or cheap things to get your hands on.

Notable stalls are the coffee truck, flavored salt booth, boiled peanut stand, and honey bar, among others!

Address: 5104 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, FL 34242, United States

10. Daiquiri Deck

Daiquiri Deck

Daiquiri Deck

If you’re looking for fun but romantic things you can do in Siesta Key Beach, Florida, head to Daiquiri Deck.

This is certainly among the barrier island’s most popular places to visit for delicious and irresistible cocktails, served in virtually every flavor you can think of!

Spanning two floors of space with open-air seating, this is a great spot to head to whether you’ve just been to the beach or you’re going there especially just for a nice drink. 

As the restaurant’s name suggests, Daiquiri Deck is most known for its daiquiris, even offering daiquiri tours.

Frozen daiquiris come in various tastes ranging from fruity to tart and from creamy to alcohol-free.

There are also other drinks to sample, such as their freshly made sangria, key lime pie cocktails, and specialty shots with whacky components like oysters and ghost pepper tequila.

There are also wines, beers, and seltzers available.

With cocktail names like Monkeyberry, Pain In The Ass, and Critical Condition, you’re spoiled for choice.

Daiquiri Deck’s food is also pretty good, with numerous savory offerings that include fresh seafood like oysters.

Shared platters provide delicious ways to eat nachos, calamari, mahi bites, and all sorts of shrimp with friends and family.

Don’t forget to try their seafood-infused entrees, handheld bites, and make-your-own sandwiches.

There are two branches of Daiquiri Deck on the island.

Each one is in a place where open containers are legal, too, so you can always buy something from the bar and head out to the Crescent and Siesta Beaches right after.

Sometimes, the establishment hosts events, special promotions, and live music and sells unique souvenirs!

Happy hour is from 3 pm to 7 pm, so don’t miss it.

Address: 5250 Ocean Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States

11. Dolphin Tours

Dolphin Tours

rachael hansen / Shutterstock

Dolphin Tours at Siesta Key are an incredible way to get up close and personal with these friendly, intelligent, and much-loved marine mammals.

It’s a great activity for the whole family, and you’ll even get to spot other wildlife, like seabirds and manatees, during your experience.

Many companies and Siesta Key attractions offer the opportunity to experience an unforgettable dolphin tour.

Some will bring you out for half a day, while other tours last a couple of hours.

Some will bring you to Clearwater, others to Fort Myers, and some even offer stops at various beaches where you can go shelling!

Whatever the case, you’ll get to watch dolphins frolic in their natural habitats.

Address: Siesta Key, FL, United States

12. Go Mangrove Kayaking

Go Mangrove Kayaking

FtLaud / Shutterstock

If you’re a nature lover or outdoor enthusiast seeking fun stuff to do in Florida, then mangrove kayaking should absolutely be on your list of planned activities.

Technically, this isn’t usually done within the island’s expanse, but close by at Lido Key.

This is an excursion suitable for kayakers of all levels of experience, and it’s even family-friendly.

The best place to go mangrove kayaking is Ted Sperling Park, a nature preserve that you can easily spend several hours exploring.

You can go on your own, but plenty of tour providers offer kayaking experiences, and knowledgeable guides provide mangrove tours for those who would like a more educational experience.

You’ll get to spot tons of wildlife, including marine birds, crabs, dolphins, clams, and much more, during a relaxing but fascinating trip.

It’s the perfect excursion to go on this weekend!

Address: 190 Taft Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States

13. Siesta Key Watersports

Siesta Key Watersports

Gorloff-KV / Shutterstock

Siesta Key Watersports is the top tour and experience provider in the area, filled with numerous options for must do water-related activities that you shouldn’t leave Florida without trying.

Whether you want to rent a jet ski, head out on a fishing charter, go parasailing, ride a luxury catamaran, or embark on a boat tour, this establishment has got you covered.

With over 25 years of experience, Siesta Key Watersports is an exceptional company.

The vessels available for rent or tours are well-equipped for traversing the waters of the barrier island.

Their jet ski of choice is the speedy Yamaha Waverunner, though other options may also be available.

Trained guides are ready onsite to offer advice, information, and tours.

The amazing sunset sail experience is immensely popular, providing free-flowing drinks against a backdrop of orange sky.

Address: 1536 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34231, United States

Looking for more thrill? Why not check out Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, and Jacksonville? If you plan your trip, here are some of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale, some cool things to do in Fort Myers, and some top things to do in Jacksonville, FL

14. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Brian Maskewit / Shutterstock

The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens stretch over 15 acres of land in Sarasota, Florida, relatively close to Siesta and across two campuses, both of which are popular tourist attractions.

They were created in 1973 when gardener and local resident Marie Selby left her property and former home to the city, thus allowing the gardens to be created.

Gardens are divided into themes that allow them to be easily explored.

The fun downtown location of the gardens consists of the Tropical Conservatory, which is one of eight onsite greenhouses, and the majestic Banyan Grove filled with rare banyan trees.

There’s also the Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden, Steinwachs Family Foundation Mangrove Walkway, Butterfly Garden, and special gardens for bamboo, ferns, and bromeliads!

Meanwhile, the Historic Spanish Point location is equally enticing, primarily featuring historic sites.

Address: 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States

15. Go Fishing

Go Fishing

Dudarev Mikhail / Shutterstock

Fishing is all the rage in Siesta Key, and it’s among the best of the things to do in Siesta Key for new and experienced anglers alike.

With shallow waters and numerous fish species, this barrier island is the perfect spot to try your hand at catching grouper, bluefish, mackerel, flounder, snapper, and more.

Some rarer fish like mahi-mahi, marlin, and tuna are also available in deeper portions.

Of course, you’ll need a fishing license, but it’s quite easy to get one from local sporting goods shops or bait stores.

You can even get one online!

Once you’ve nabbed a license, there are plenty of fishing charters offered throughout the barrier island that you can embark on.

There’s a reason this island is so popular as an offshore fishing location!

Address: Siesta Key, FL, United States

16. St. Boniface Episcopal Church

St. Boniface Episcopal Church

St. Boniface Episcopal Church

Even the non-religious or non-Christian will find that the St. Boniface Episcopal Church is among the most fascinating points of interest in the heart of Siesta Key.

The answer as to why is not about the structure’s design or history, though it is quite beautiful to look at.

No, the answer is fun and somewhat unexpected – it’s the St. Boniface Labyrinth built on its grounds!

This “labyrinth” was inspired by France’s Chartres Cathedral, and it’s one of Florida’s very first labyrinths ever constructed.

It is free to visit and is open to the public, and you can visit the chapel for a moment of quiet contemplation if desired, too.

The Labyrinth involves narrow paths carefully portrayed on the stone ground, which you’re supposed to walk through by placing one foot in front of the other as you go.

Address: 5615 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States

17. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Paulleon / Shutterstock

Are you exploring Florida and wondering what to do?

Why not head over to the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium in City Island, Sarasota?

The laboratory is a crucial site for marine observation, research, and education, and the aquarium is a fantastic public resource that houses over a hundred marine species. 

There are plenty of exhibits at the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium.

You’ll get the chance to view and learn about sea jellies, cuttlefish, otters, octopuses, anemones, gators, rays, corals, caimans, seahorses, crocodiles, and sharks – including babies in a touch tank!

Windows around the aquarium allow you to catch glimpses into the working labs and most exhibits are fun and interactive for people of all ages.

Events like shark feedings make it even more interesting!

Don’t forget to check out the displayed preserved remains of the 27-foot-long cephalopod Molly the Mollusk, a giant squid.

It’s truly a sight to behold and the information displayed alongside her is very interesting.

Address: 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States

18. Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Danny Schepers / Shutterstock

The Sarasota Jungle Gardens span 10 acres and have been a popular tourist spot since 1939.

Its expanse is filled with all sorts of botanical plantings, and there are plenty of fun shows and things to see relating to birds and other animals.

The biggest draw of the Sarasota Jungle Gardens is its amazing flamingos, which are entirely free-roaming and often eat from the hands of guests.

Interactive experiences of all sorts give you the opportunity to get close to butterflies, reptiles, parrots, and many other kinds of mammals. 

Of course, the gardens themselves are magnificent, bearing a mix of local and exotic flora.

You’ll find a bunya-bunya tree, an Australian nut tree, and Florida’s biggest Norfolk Island pine, among others!

Keep an eye out for staghorn ferns, strangler figs, bulrush, Peruvian apple cacti, banana trees, bald cypress, red maples, and, of course, oak trees!

Address: 3701 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34234, United States

19. Sarasota Classic Car Museum

Sarasota Classic Car Museum

GagliardiPhotography / Shutterstock

Admittedly, the best things to do in Siesta Key are quite limited, so you’ll have to travel to neighboring Sarasota to sink your teeth into some local attractions.

The Sarasota Classic Car Museum is one of these attractions, and it’s quite worth visiting!

The museum boasts 60,000 square feet of space and houses approximately a hundred cars in a regularly rotating collection.

The Sarasota Classic Car Museum boasts a large number of rare cars, as well as some that were once owned by the rich and famous.

There is also an expansive collection of Italian cars that includes Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, and Rivolta vehicles.

Address: 5500 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States

20. Beer Can Island

Beer Can Island

Mark Winfrey / Shutterstock

Beer Can Island is one of the top places to visit near Siesta Key, and it’s a jewel in Florida, known as a secluded and tranquil getaway.

If you’d like to get out of the barrier island this weekend, this island is one of the prime choices!

Also called Greer Island, Beer Can Island is situated in northern Longboat Key.

It boasts gorgeous mangrove forests and a stunning beach, with plenty of bleached driftwood that makes for a perfect photographic subject.

Though the island isn’t the easiest to get to as you have to find your way through mangroves first, it’s well worth it for a relaxing escape.

Address: Longboat Key, FL, United States

21. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Mia2you / Shutterstock

When you’re done with the closest Siesta Key attractions, head to Sarasota to gain fun insight into the circus beginnings of this region of Florida.

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is built within the estate of the eponymous couple of John and Mabel Ringling, which includes a huge Venetian mansion and an impressive collection of art.

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art now displays many artifacts and artworks that were once a part of the Ringlings’ personal collection.

Genres range from Cypriot antiques to works of the Old Masters.

The house itself is a mansion that is a work of art, restored to prime luxury and elegance as the Ca d’Zan.

There is also a circus-focused museum within the site, and some lovely rose gardens outside!

Address: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States

22. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, once simply called the South Florida Museum, is a natural history museum situated in Bradenton close to Siesta Key.

It’s among the best places to go in that area and showcases a wide range of exhibits that primarily focus on the history of the gulf coast, as well as some of the state’s history from decades ago till today.

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is also home to numerous notable establishments, such as the Bishop Planetarium, Tallant collection, Spanish Plaza, and the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat which was the home of Snooty the manatee.

Address: 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205, United States

Want to make more memories? Why not check out Key West, Marco Island, and Miami? If you do plan the trip, here are some best things to do in Key West, some top things to do in Marco Island, and some cool things to do in Miami!

23. St. Armands Circle

St. Armands Circle

Suncoast Aerials / Shutterstock

Built in 1926, St. Armands Circle is an absolute must see in Siesta Key, Florida, whether you’re seeking leisure, shopping, dining, or a chic ambiance to lose yourself in.

Packed with spas, souvenir stores, quaint shops, restaurants, and plenty of walking areas, this is a great hotspot for locals and tourists alike.

St. Armands Circle is nothing short of trendy, boasting an upmarket European aesthetic with a charming atmosphere and vibe.

There are high-end fashion outlets, unique art galleries, luxurious home decor, and traditional souvenirs galore, among other things.

Address: 300 Madison Dr Suite 201, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States

24. Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island

Unwind / Shutterstock

Near Siesta Key just a half-hour drive away, Anna Maria Island is a gorgeous, whimsical small-town locale that gives you a quintessential coastal Florida experience.

It’s filled with simple, loved, but relatively relaxed tourist attractions, such as the beach on Bean Point, the Historic Bridge Street Pier, Bradenton Beach, and Poppos’ Taqueria for food.

The typical fun beach activities are commonplace on Anna Maria Island.

There’s plenty to do, and you could spend a couple of days here this weekend with all that it has to offer.

Stay on the beaches to sunbathe, kayak, swim, or relax on the white sand, or head further north to enjoy restaurants and shops that are free from obnoxious tourism-related commercialization.

Address: FL, United States

25. Key Life Charters

Key Life Charters

Key Life Charters

Want more things to do in Siesta Key, Florida out on the water?

Key Life Charters provides some fun and exciting private tours of the waters surrounding the island.

Sightseeing tours, half-day tours, and full-day tours are all available, and most of them allow you to perform a variety of activities.

These include dolphin-watching, tubing, diving, and more.

Key Life Charters provides a range of experiences.

You can head out on a wildlife-watching tour, a tiki pub crawl, a shelling and sandbar hopping experience, and even a romantic sunset cruise.

Cocktail cruises, paddleboarding excursions, and even real-estate-related tours are all available!

Address: Siesta Key, FL, United States

26. Payne Park

Payne Park

Payne Park

In 1924, Payne Park was a baseball field, built on a donated parcel of land spanning about 60 acres.

It served this purpose all the way up to the year 1990.

Today much has changed, and the now-29-acre park is publicly open as a recreational site, serving as one of Florida’s points of interest in Sarasota.

Payne Park is a calm but fun place to be for the whole family.

There’s a Frisbee golf course, a public skateboarding park, loads of trails for bikers and walkers, a great cafe, and some lakes to lounge at.

A beautiful circus playground, complete with a small waterpark, has become known among families with children for its unique and enticing aesthetic!

Address: 2010 Adams Ln, Sarasota, FL 34237, United States

27. Lido Key and Lido Beach

Lido Key and Lido Beach

Suncoast Aerials / Shutterstock

Siesta Key has a tendency to be extremely crowded, leaving you wondering what to do to get out of these touristy areas and find some true tranquility.

Florida beaches tend to be crowded, of course, but Lido Key and its accompanying Lido Beach are great bets for a more secluded experience that doesn’t skimp on amenities and eateries.

Boasting a beautiful boardwalk and multiple great tour and experience providers, Lido Key is just 20 minutes away from our titular border island.

Sand is white and silky, beach space is ample, and the sunset is just as beautiful from here!

Address: Lido Key, FL, United States

28. Kokomo Charters

Kokomo Charters

Kokomo Charters

Kokomo Charters is a relatively new provider of tours and experiences in Siesta Key, Florida, having only opened its doors in 2015.

The company provides a range of water and land tours showing you the many things to see on the barrier island.

Plenty of options are available at Kokomo Charters, such as the full-day charter, the northern island-hopping experience, the relaxing sightseeing charter, and watersports charters.

The company uses two primary boats: a gorgeous 37-foot day yacht of the Luxury Sea Ray variety, and the 26-foot Sea Ray for sports like snorkeling, tubing, and paddle boarding.

Address: Siesta Key, FL, United States

29. Jim Neville Marine Preserve

Jim Neville Marine Preserve

sstevens3 / Shutterstock

There are many things to do in Siesta Key that relate to nature and the ocean.

In neighboring Sarasota, that still rings true.

The Jim Neville Marine Preserve is a fun preserve after renowned local environmentalist Jim Neville.

Today, it is a highly popular destination for boating and wet hiking during high tides thanks to its relatively low elevation.

The Jim Neville Marine Preserve is filled with flora and fauna that make a trip well worth anyone’s while.

The preserve allows you to waterski, paddleboard, wakeboard, kiteboard, swim, and tube your way through its waters.

There are also some great tours offered of the preserve’s expanse.

Address: ​Little Sarasota Bay, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States

30. Meaney’s Mini Donuts

Meaney’s Mini Donuts

Meaney’s Mini Donuts

Those hungry and craving a sweet bite in Siesta Key, Florida should go straight for Meaney’s Mini Donuts.

This cafe and coffee house is situated in Siesta Village, serving up delectable and scrumptious sweet treats in countless fun and vibrant flavors.

Meaney’s Mini Donuts serves little pastries in varieties like chocolate delight, strawberry cheesecake, peanut butter cup, bavarian cream, and apple pie, among other treats like cinnamon sugar donut holes.

It’s a simple walk-up joint that rarely gets too crowded despite its popularity, so it’s ideal for the especially peckish!

Address: 205 Canal Rd, Siesta Key, FL 34242, United States

31. Anna’s Deli

Anna’s Deli

Anna’s Deli

Anna’s Deli is a family-owned shop that has been in operation since 1971.

It might seem strange for one of the many Siesta Key attractions to just be a sandwich, but there’s a good reason for this!

The deli is renowned for its impeccable world-famous surfer sandwiches, made with the establishment’s famous sauce.

Anna’s Deli is well-known for serving amazing, large portions of every food offering they have.

Whether it’s freshly baked marbled bread, scrumptious meats cut precisely, specialty platters, or scrumptious desserts, you’ll more than get your money’s worth at the eatery.

The deli has won countless awards, including Reader’s Choice Awards and Best Sandwich wins.

Family-owned since 1971, the signature ‘surfer sandwich’ includes Anna’s famous sauce.

Apart from the delectable sauce, this place is known for its big portions, flawlessly shaved meat, and freshly baked marbled bread.

Address: 6535 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States

32. Silver City Sarasota

It is most famous for its Siesta Key collections, namely its watercolor quartz gemstones and jaw-dropping handmade dune sand jewelry.

These collections are designed to evoke the oceanfront wonders of the barrier island.

These unique creations make amazing gifts for others – and for yourself!

Of course, Silver City Sarasota isn’t just about Siesta Key.

This is among the most popular places to go in Florida for authentic handcrafted pieces of jewelry and all their finery and luxury.

Among the exquisite options are necklaces, rings, Pandora beads, and one-of-a-kind creations!

Address: 6539 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States

Will you be visiting Naples, Orlando, or St. Petersburg? If so, here’s our list of the best things to do in Naples, FL, a top list of what to do in Orlando, and fun things to do in St. Petersburg, FL!

33. Circus Sarasota

Circus Sarasota

Circus Sarasota

The Circus Arts Conservatory is situated right across Siesta Key.

It’s home to a wide range of different showcases involving the performing arts.

Popcorn and cotton candy accompany you as you watch entertaining showcases of skill. One of these tourist attractions is Circus Sarasota.

Circus Sarasota is an annual event that welcomes circus performers and acrobats from across the planet as they convene in Florida.

Acrobats, jugglers, clowns, aerial stuntmen, and all sorts of amazing talent make for an exciting family-friendly night.

You’ll witness seemingly impossible feats in a thrilling spectacle that harkens back to the circus roots of the region.

Events are held in one of three places: the one-ring Big Top built in a European style, the intimate theater steeped in history, or the stunning Sailor Circus arena.

Address: Sarasota, FL 34243, United States

34. Robinhood Rentals

Robinhood Rentals

Robinhood Rentals

If you’re looking for more things to do in Siesta Key, Florida that will sate your desire for action, Robinhood Rentals is the place to go.

The establishment refers to itself as the barrier island’s premier destination for all things exciting.

It earned its name from its original home in Nottingham, England, which was famous due to the escapades of Sir Robin Hood.

As its name suggests, the company of Robinhood Rentals offers rentals of various vehicles and vessels.

This includes scooters, Segways, bikes, kayaks, and more.

Renting vehicles like this is a great way to explore the island on your own terms and in your own time!

Address: 5255 Ocean Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34242, United States

Going on a road trip around Florida? Why not check out some of the things to do in Ocala & some of the fun things to do in Boca Raton?

Start Planning Your Trip To Siesta Key

The barrier island of Siesta Key is a sight for sore eyes and a fantastic place for a beach getaway or a sunny island vacation.

This is the perfect example of a bright coastal holiday destination in Florida, and it’s great for the whole family!