Amenities

Beach, swimming, lifeguards, fishing, picnic pavilion, picnic areas, playground, volleyball, concessions, restrooms, parking, beach wheelchairs available

Experiences

This is Sarasota’s most popular beach. Rated the #2 best beach in the world by Dr. Beach in 2009, Siesta Beach is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and exquisite powdery, white sand. The sand is 99% pure quartz, making it soft and cool on the feet. There are lots of things to do here, including parasailing, boating, snorkeling, fishing and swimming. If relaxing on the beach is more your speed, look for dolphins, pelicans and shorebirds. Shops and restaurants in Siesta Village are an easy walk from the beach. Be sure to drop by the Drum Circle that takes place every Sunday evening. The parking lot fills up quickly on sunny days, so arrive early if driving. Certified Blue Wave Beach and National Healthy Beach.

History

The land was purchased in the 1950’s through a referendum. The historic pavilion was designed by Edward J. Seibert of the famed Sarasota School of Architecture.

Habitats

Open beach

Acreage

40 acres (2,400 linear feet gulf beach frontage)

Watershed

Sarasota Bay

Who Owns and Maintains

Owned and maintained by Sarasota County

Website

www.scgov.net

SCAT Bus stop and route

Route 11; stops in front of beach parking lot and pavilion