Why Siesta Key is Special
Top 5 Reasons to Love Siesta Key - An admittedly biased view of life here, by Regina Brassil, REALTOR
1. The beach, the beach, the beach! Few beaches in the world can rival the powder white sand, the sheer SIZE of the beach which staggers first time visitors, the Caribbean-inspired hues of the water, the views up and down the coast, the lazy boats, the para-sailers, jet-skiers and windsurfers. You can pick up sand dollars, see dolphins jumping and watch pelicans feed. And while this all sounds exceptionally crowded, here's a tip - if you park at Siesta Key's public lot, walk north up the beach (right as you face the water) to find relative seclusion and your own patch of sand. If you bypass the public beach, look for roadside markers of beach access, these are often far less crowded.
2. Make a Day of It - Walk to lunch in your bathing suit and flip flops - Although some prefer the upscale elegance of other Keys, I love the fact that I can walk from the public beach to the access just off Siesta Key Village - put on a t-shirt and a pair of flip flops and you are restaurant ready! Sandwiches, seafood, pizza - beer, daiquiris, wine - all beachgoer friendly. Don't worry about the sand between your toes!
3. The Sunsets - I don't think even the most prolific writer can explain the sheer beauty of a sunset over the Gulf. It is simply meant to be experienced. Bring a picnic basket and a blanket, its more romantic than any restaurant in town. One of my most awe-inspiring moments here in Sarasota occurred when watching a sunset in front of me - fiery reds, oranges and pinks, dolphins jumping - and behind me, a dark purple sky with a full moon shining - two distinct skies, one amazing evening. Do not leave without seeing a sunset!
4. The Weddings - Call me a romantic, I can't help but stop and watch these weekly events. I respect a bride willing to sacrifice perfect hair and satin shoes to be wed barefoot under a setting sun. The ambience reminds me of Hawaii, with flowered shirts, bare feet and green garlands around the guests necks. A truly special way to begin your life together.
5. The Drum Circle - Every town needs its characters! Some of the best are represented at the weekly drum circle, a Sunday night event famous enough to be mentioned in Frommers' travel books. Although the bonfire has been eliminated (perhaps for safety reasons given the crowd?) the camaraderie of residents and tourists alike, dancing to the primal drumbeats as the sun sets is a one of a kind, Siesta Key only experience! Feel free to bring your favorite beverage but make sure you bring plastic glasses!
And to be fair, why I love:
Lido Key: Lido Key truly embodies the windswept beaches, high grasses and dunes I tend to remember growing up on the Jersey shore. The beaches are generally less crowded, and you can easily find a spot all to yourself. Lido is home to one of the few beachside tiki bars in Sarasota county, and some great restaurants with a view, most notably Christopher's. Just off Lido Beach is world famous Saint Armand's Circle, providing shopping, dining, art galleries and bars for the more upscale crowd. St. Armand's also has terrific art shows, car shows and events for all ages. And Lido has recently become THE place for landlubbers to watch the popular July 4th Grand Prix speedboat races.
Longboat Key: Longboat Key is more of a resort key - there is far less public beach access. Most who visit Longboat Key stay in luxurious resorts with sprawling golf courses and tennis centers. Longboat is home to one of my favorite restaurants, Cafe on the Bay (if you are so inclined, try the rack of lamb -it is out of this world!) Out of the way and far less touristy, Longboat is home to those whom have earned the good life. Longboat is also home to the mobile home park with the best view in the world - full Gulf of Mexico frontage!