Why Florida’s Siesta Key is the Best Beach in the Nation

While Florida has plenty of beaches to indulge in, Siesta Key Beach ranks one of the state’s most prestigious. Located on Siesta Key, the beach is nestled on a barrier island on the Gulf Coast of Mexico, just a short drive from Sarasota.

Consistently awarded the top spot for one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States by highly regarded names like TripAdvisor, the Travel Channel, and the famous Dr. Beach, travelers from around the country have been lured in by the beach’s family-friendly amenities and unspoiled natural beauty.

Soft to the touch, the sands here feel like powdered sugar, as it is made of 99 percent pure crushed quartz, considered the finest in the country. Don’t worry about burning your feet at this beach, as the sand’s unique combination makes it cool to the touch, even under the powerful Florida sun. Add the stunning panoramic views of the clear turquoise water as far as your eye can see, and it is no surprise why both locals and visitors alike have made this beach their favorite summertime escape.

Whether you want to dig your toes in the sand and soak up some of Florida’s sunshine, build a sandcastle, or indulge in the various water sports activities available, you’ll have plenty of room to carve out your slice of paradise and this expansive beach.

Water enthusiasts are spoiled for choice with various outdoor adventures, from fishing to boating, parasailing, kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming. At the same time, lucky people might even spot a pod of majestic dolphins passing by. Divers can enjoy plenty of shore and boat dives, where natural rock formations and artificial reefs make for an exciting day of underwater adventures, including seeing M-10 and M-17, two vessels that sank in 1900.

An excellent choice for love birds looking for a romantic day on the beach, stay and watch the sun dip below the Gulf horizon to see some of Florida’s most picture-perfect sunset views. Boasting a two-story pavilion with a snack bar and restrooms, the beach is also great for families with kids, while picnic tables, shaded playgrounds, and volleyball courts offer a place to barbecue and hang out. The little ones can enjoy splashing about in the calm Gulf waters, as it is shallow and safe for beginner swimmers with lifeguards on watch and no sharp drop-offs.

To experience some local cultures, join the weekly drum circle held every Sunday about 1 hour before sunset, just south of the main pavilion between the lifeguard stands 3 and 4. A lively event that draws a crowd, this local phenomenon transformed spontaneously on Siesta Key Beach and now has developed into a life of its own. Another popular public event is the Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Competition, where you can see various pieces of art created from the beach’s fine sand.

A must-see on any bucket list itinerary of Florida, Siesta Key Beach offers a memorable day of beach adventures that the entire family can enjoy. Easy to access, the beach has ample parking available nearby, in addition to a trolley service to and from the island’s charming downtown area The sunsets are breathtaking and this hidden gem on the Florida coast should be on every beach lover’s bucket list.

Siesta Key Beach Pavilion Information