Crystal Crowns

Meet the Winners of the 2022 Siesta Key Crystal Classic

The annual sand sculpture competition turns the beach into an outdoor art gallery.

11/15/2022 By Kim Doleatto

Sandy gallery

The Siesta Key Crystal Classic Is Back

Professional and amateur artists at the 2022 international sand sculpting competition are primed to make jaws drops with these sandy creations.

11/01/2022 By Kim Doleatto

Relax, Calm

Bliss Out With These Soothing Beach Shots by Photographer Gray Malin

The well-known photographer has added our region to his collection of light-filled aerial beach shots.

09/02/2022 By Megan McDonald

Beaches

How Seriously Should We Take No-Swim Advisories?

After a recent spate of no-swim advisories, we asked the Florida Department of Health what causes them and what precautions we need to take.

08/25/2022 By Bethany Ritz

Beach Report

No-Swim Advisory Issued for Multiple Sarasota County Beaches

Wading, swimming and water recreation are not recommended when no-swim advisories are in place.

08/11/2022 By Staff

Continuing Education

'Beach University' Returns to Siesta Beach on March 3

The free educational series invites community members and visitors to learn about coastal environments in one-hour sessions.

02/28/2022 By Staff

Hey Vacay

Our Favorite Sarasota Airbnbs

From midcentury modern charm to beachy, postcard-perfect getaways, check out these highly bookable homes for less than $240 a night.

09/24/2021 By Kim Doleatto

On Guard!

The Best Lifeguards in Florida Descended on Siesta Beach This Week

A glimpse in photos of this week’s steamy Siesta Key lifeguard competition.

07/22/2021 Photography by Chad Spencer

Open House: Siesta Key Mid-Century Modern Hits the Market

This rare find is being sold fully furnished and is perfect for the retro beach lover.

07/01/2021

"It's Beautiful This Morning"

Lifeguard Scooter Ruberg’s Beach Reports Have Made Him an Ambassador for Siesta Key

“I’ve been sitting in the same place for 25 years. I’ve watched families come each year; I take pictures with their kids. Now, their kids are bringing their kids.”

03/09/2021 By Stacey Altherr

Outdoor Adventures

Let's Ride Electric Bikes on Siesta Key Beach

Cruise along Siesta's white sand on an electric bike with Endless Summer SRQ.

10/22/2020 By Allison Forsyth

Awards

Siesta Key Beach Named No. 1 in the Country, No. 11 in the World by TripAdvisor

Our beloved beach once again receives big honors.

08/24/2020 By Staff

Flashback

Flashback: Siesta Beach Amateur Sand Sculpture Contest, 1976

A free, family-friendly tradition for 46 years on America’s No. 1 beach.

05/20/2020 By Ilene Denton

Environment

'Beach University' Returns in March

Hour-long outdoor sessions feature hands-on curriculum related to the coastal environment and how best to care for its ecology.

02/10/2020 By Staff

And They're Off!

Free One-Mile Beach Runs Begin This Month

Hundreds of families turn out for the free weekly one-mile fun runs.

05/30/2019 By Ilene Denton

Tourism

Siesta Ranked the 15th Most Affordable Beach in the U.S.

To create the list, researchers examined the cost of parking, sunscreen, water, fish tacos, beer, cocktails and accommodations.

03/06/2019 By Staff

Weekly Planner

Breakfast with Santa, Beer Garden Bazaars and More Local Dining Events this Week

Including a vegan cheese and wine night and the Siesta Beach Seafood and Music Festival.

11/28/2018 By Giulia Heyward

Sand Sport

Siesta Key Crystal Classic Brings Friendly Competition to a Childhood Pastime

The 2018 Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival is less "fun in the sun" and more "blood, sweat and tears."

11/08/2018 By Giulia Heyward

Department of Bad Behavior

Eight Sea Turtle Nests Harmed on Siesta Key

An ATV or golf cart dislodged stakes marking existing nests and drove across a newly laid, unmarked nest.

06/26/2018 By Megan McDonald

Insider's Guide 2017

The Drum Circle is a Siesta Key Beach Institution

Siesta’s Drum Circle offers free-flowing fun at sunset.

11/30/2017 By Pam Daniel