Sarasota, Florida is a longtime Spring Break destination, and it’s obvious why! With ample beach days, oceanfront living, and a quaint lineup of restaurants and shops, Siesta Key is undeniably a hit among spring breakers of all ages!
When you’re ready to enjoy the tropical life, even if it’s just for a week at a time, use our guide to spring breaking on Siesta Key to find the best accommodations, beaches, restaurants and more!
Where to Stay on Siesta Key
Siesta Key offers a boutique travel experience and is perfect for both long-stay vacations and short, little staycations. While there aren’t many largescale hotels here, options like Sarasota Surf and Racquet Club, Jamaica Royale, and the Sea Crest on Siesta Key may be your best bet for more resort-style stays. Locals tend to opt for more low key versions like private Airbnbs or VRBOs, and smaller, boutique properties. No matter where you stay on the island, you are always a stone’s throw from stunning Siesta Key Beach and within walking distance of the everso lively Siesta Key Village.
Where to Eat on Siesta Key
That brings us to the next point: where to eat on Siesta Key? Luckily there are many options, and even better, many of these establishments turn into lively nightlife spots come sundown. Head to world famous Siesta Key Oyster Bar, lovingly called “SKOB” by the locals, for oysters on the halfshell and an ice cold brew. For more casual all-day dining, opt for Gilligans or Daiquiri Deck. Looking for more upscale dinner vibes? Head on over to The Summer House (my personal favorite), where you can enjoy delicious cuts of perfectly aged meats, tasty cocktails, and top-notch customer service, all within a coastal yet elegant setting. Or, stop by Cafe Gabbiano, for intimate Italian cuisine, and an incredible wine selection (you can ask the sommelier to help pair your meal with your wine upon request), within a cozy and casual setting.
Nightlife on Siesta Key
If you’re looking for some night-time activities, Siesta Key serves up live music, hand-crafted cocktails and even some dancing! Head to the Siesta Key Village for a lively strip of nightlife and bars including Gilligans, Daiquiri Deck and The Beach Club. Everything closes down here around 2 am, however there’s always access to public transportation and Ubers so you can get home safely!
What to Do on Siesta Key
When it comes to vacationing on Siesta Key, there are so many options for day-time activities. Naturally, Siesta Key Beach is recognized as the World’s Best Beach. Begin your holiday by dipping your toes in the perfect, clear blue ocean, and then experiment for yourself with the cool quartz sand that never burns your toes! Try your hand at standup paddle boarding and rent a board from a nearby beach shack, where you can choose anything from a boogie board to a SUP. Looking to cruise through the island? Rent a bike and head to the southern point of Siesta Key, where you’ll ride by some of the area’s most magnificent mansions and see how the locals live!
Whether you are visiting from out of town, or enjoying a mini staycation on Siesta Key, remember to always have fun and be safe and responsible! Our beaches and oceans are fun to be enjoyed, but are also home to plenty of wildlife and nature, leave nothing but footprints behind, cleanup after yourselves, and always think about the marine life and animals that call Siesta Key home too!