We’ve been visiting Sarasota/Siesta Key, Florida for as long as we can remember – it’s kind of like our home away from home. It’s been the go-to spring break destination for our families (and most of DeKalb) forever, and for a very good reason; the best beach! No joke, Siesta Key is rated one of the top beaches in the country. It’s the softest, most white sand you’ll probably ever sink your toes into, and it’s only a 2.5 hour flight from us. Below, we’re sharing our favorite hot spots from our most recent trip together.
If you’re struggling with what to pack for spring break, check out what we took with us, here.
Where to Stay in Siesta Key
We’re lucky enough to have a good friend who lives in Sarasota, so we don’t have to worry about a place to stay. However, we’d highly recommend staying on Siesta Key, if you can. The views are unbelievable and you’ll really feel like you’re in Florida when you can wake up, take a few steps, and drink your morning coffee on the beach. The Westin Sarasota also just opened up and the views are breathtaking!!
Westin Rooftop
Where to Eat & Drink
The Westin Sarasota
We love this place so much we’re mentioning it twice! 🙂 We celebrated our 1 year bloggiversary on their rooftop bar and watched the sunset. It’s the perfect place for drinks and appetizers (we highly recommend their jumbo shrimp) before you head out to a fancy dinner.
The Original Daiquiri Deck
Happy hour, anyone? This is the best spot in Siesta Key Village for daiquiris (obviously). We typically go here right after the beach in our bathing suits and cover ups. It’s been around forever and we don’t leave without stopping by at least once.
Owen’s Fish Camp
This place is a MUST visit for a great seafood dinner. Owen’s is an ode to old Florida living, and is probably our favorite restaurant in Sarasota. Enjoy some southern, fried shrimp while watching live entertainment in what seems like your best friend’s backyard. It’s truly one-of-a-kind. And yes, there is a fake old man that sits out front and scares everyone, every time! Ha.
Social
The food was okay, but the drinks and the atmosphere were worth the trip. It’s a little bougie, but fun for a night out with friends (they have a really nice patio with fire pits). It’s located right across the street from the Westin, so easily walkable if you’re staying downtown Sarasota. Make reservations in advance!
Shore
Every girl’s dream. Shopping on the first level and food on the second level….how could you want anything more in life!? Located in St. Armand’s Circle, it’s the perfect place for Sunday brunch. Stay a little longer and walk around the circle for extra shopping.
What to Do
Beach
Siesta Key beach is by far the best, but if it’s too crowded, you can head to Lido beach, which isn’t that far from Siesta. It’s more of a locals beach, so it’s guaranteed to be a little quieter. Next time, we’ll bring our own volleyball for the boys (there are a few nets on the beach)! They get bored too easily.
Click to Shop
Boat
If you’re boating, you have to check out Beer Can Island. It’s a huge party on the weekends, and the sandbar makes it easy to hang out on and off your boat.We like to say we were living our best lives this day. If only we could do this every Saturday.
Click to Shop
Paddle Board/Kayak
This is a must-do activity at Turtle Beach. You can rent paddle boards or kayaks for the morning and spend a few hours slowly making your way down the river. It’s super relaxing and you might have the chance to see some water animals! We saw a manatee once, and it made our whole trip!!
Hike
Now, you may think it’s a little weird that we’re talking about hiking in Florida. But, our friend Alex, who lives there, took us to the coolest place to hike one morning, called Celery Fields. It’s such a pretty hill, and so much to see! Definitely worth the climb.
Have you been before? Share your favorite spots with us, below!