FAQs - Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce

Is smoking permitted on Siesta Beach and Turtle Beach?

Sarasota County has adopted Ordinance 2023-021, which prohibits smoking at all County-owned beaches and parks. This ban is effective starting Oct. 1, 2023. The prohibition includes all areas within the beaches and parks, including parking lots. There are no designated smoking areas.

Why is the sand on Siesta Key so soft?

The sand on Siesta and Crescent beaches consists of 99% pure quartz grains. Our award-winning sand is like flour and cool on your feet.

Can I rent beach chairs and umbrellas at Siesta Beach?

Yes, at the Siesta Beach main pavilion. Beach rentals are available seven days a week, 9am to 5pm, weather permitting.

Where may I park on Siesta Key?

There’s free public parking in a large Sarasota County managed municipal lot at Siesta Beach, at a small municipal lot in Siesta Key Village, and a municipal parking lot for 207 vehicles (plus spaces for boat trailers) at Turtle Beach.

In addition to complimentary customer and guest parking at some retailers and restaurants, there are multiple self-pay parking lots in both Siesta Key Village and South Village. Read all signage carefully regarding payment details. Some paid parking lots are hourly, some lots are daily. All paid parking lots are privately owned and managed.

May I drive a golf cart on Siesta Key?

Yes, golf carts with registered plates are permitted on roads with a speed limit at or below 35mph.

Is there public transportation on the Key?

Yes, the free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley runs seven days a week between Siesta Key Village and Turtle Beach.

Where are public restrooms on Siesta Key?

Public restrooms are available at Siesta Beach, Turtle Beach, Nora Patterson Park, and Glebe Park.

Visit our Explore the Key map to see locations.

How big is Siesta Key?

Siesta Key is an eight mile long, crescent-shaped barrier island easily accessible by one of two bridges connecting it to mainland Sarasota.

Are there grocery stores on Siesta Key?

Yes, there is are two full-service markets on the island, one in Siesta Key Village and one in South Village. Additional food retailers are located just across both the north and south bridges to the Key.

May I fish from the beaches on Siesta Key?

Yes, but you will need a fishing license.

Where do I get a fishing license?

Visit www.myfwc.com/license. License fees vary.

When is turtle nesting season?

May 1 – October 31.

Are dogs allowed on Siesta Key's beaches?

No, but there are multiple dog parks nearby.

Are there public basketball courts on the Key?

Yes, at Glebe Park.

Are there public tennis and pickleball courts?

Yes, at Siesta Beach. These are Sarasota County Park courts and require you bring your own Pickleball net. Courts available on a first-come, first-serve basis year-round.