Why is Siesta Key the #1 beach?

Siesta Key is known as America’s number one beach. Why? Because of the pure quartz sand, unlike other beaches that are normally made up up of coral and rock. Siesta Key’s white sand stays cool under your feet and is ultra fine and soft.

Dr. Beach, Director of the Florida International University Laboratory for Coastal Research, named it as the #1 beach. However, Siesta Key was also ranked #1 beach in America by TripAdvisors travelers choice awards.

It seems both experts and beach bums agree, Siesta Key is one of the best beaches in the world. In fact, it ranks #11 in the world according to TripAdvisor.

 

Siesta Key’s Water

Not only does Siesta Key offer miles of white Sandy beaches but the sparkling gulf coast waters are also something to write home about.

On clear, sunny days – Siesta Key’s sparkling teal waters are clear enough to see your toes. Water clarity varies based on weather and season but I am rarely disappointed by Siesta Key. The beauty is one of the top reasons why you should go on vacation in Siesta Key.

The calm waters offer a stark contrast to the consistent surf on the east coast of Florida. Some days the water is so still and clear that it almost feels like a natural swimming pool. One of my favorite things about Siesta Key is that I can grab a float and lounge in the gentle water for hours.

Siesta Key’s turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, wading, shelling and laying on a lounge float under the warm sun for hours.

Family Friendly

Siesta Key is perfect for families of all ages and sizes. There are plenty of vacation homes and condos within walking distance to the #1 beach in the USA.

I highly recommend Siesta Key to families with small children because the calm waters make it more enjoyable for them.

It’s important to follow safety guidelines and always supervise your children at the beach. Many parents feel more comfortable in the more shallow and calm water of Siesta Key with their children.

Wildlife

Siesta Key’s natural landscape is a haven for native wildlife such as dolphins, ospreys, sandpipers, manatees, tortoises, sea turtles, egrets etc.

There are many nature preserves and state parks nearby that offer an escape into nature. Like, Myakka River State Park and Oscar Sherer State Park.

Activities

In addition to lounging in the sun and swimming, Siesta Key also boasts a wide range of outdoor activities like wind surfing, boating, golfing, kayaking and parasailing.

siesta key photographer captures photo of girl playing on the beach at sunsetSunsets

The west coast of Florida is the best place to watch the sun melt into the horizon at the end of the day.

Locals and tourists alike all stroll down to the beach to enjoy the magical Siesta Key sunsets.

Free parking and Trolley

Many of the public beach access points in Siesta Key are free and there is also a free beach trolley. Learn more about parking in Siesta Key. On busy days, parking fills up fast and there are private parking lots that will charge for parking.