With millions of tourists each year, the Sunshine State is one of the most visited states in the U.S. And a good percentage of these travelers will head for the Sarasota area. Sarasota has great weather and is loaded with activities, attractions, and cultural events for people of all ages.
One of the deciding factors for tourists who choose the greater Sarasota area, particularly visitors from up north, is the beaches. And one of the best beaches in the world is Siesta Key Beach. It has been rated the #1 beach in America more than once, most recently in 2015 by TripAdvisor.
Those who stay at the Inn on Siesta Key find themselves just a few steps away from the beach and in the heart of historic Florida – with as many activities as they could possibly want or, if they choose, as much peace and quiet as they desire.
Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, here are some travel tips for planning your Siesta Key Beach vacation more enjoyable.
Sarasota experiences lots of sunshine, however, you still want to be prepared for the occasional rain shower. In addition to plenty of sunscreen, it’s wise to pack an umbrella as well and plastic bags for items you don’t want to get wet. Normally, these showers pass through quickly and won’t interrupt your activity, but always pay attention to the local forecast. If you’re not sure about the weather forecast on a particular day, please ask a staff member at the Inn on Siesta Key. They’ll be happy to assist you.
Getting around Siesta Key is relatively easy. The Inn on Siesta Key is just a five-minute walk from Siesta Village, with all kinds of restaurants, shops, and night life. And as mentioned above, the beach is just steps from your door.
However, there are many other attractions around Sarasota that you may want to experience, depending on your length of stay. For these, it may be wise to rent a car, rather than take a taxi, which can get expensive if you are always on the go.
What to pack depends on how long you are staying and what you plan to do while you’re here. Because it is warm here more often than not, consider loose, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat or visor. Comfortable walking shoes and sandals are a must. From the months of October through March, there is a chance of cooler temperatures, so a sweater or light jacket is a good idea. During the winter months, it’s always wise to layer your clothing when heading out for the day. The mornings might start off cool, with the afternoons turning much warmer.
For a Weekend Getaway
Casual should be the game plan here. If the object is rest and relaxation, swimsuits and loose, comfortable clothing are the way to go - with maybe one dressier change of clothes if you plan to visit an upscale restaurant or nightclub. The Inn on Siesta Key offers complimentary beach towels, so leave these bulky items at home. In fact, the Inn on Siesta Key offers a wide range of amenities so you’ll feel much more at home than staying at a hotel or resort.
For an Extended Stay
Even for a vacation lasting a week or more, many people over pack. Just like a weekend getaway, if your plans include the beach and/or the private pool at the Inn on Siesta Key, casual, loose fitting clothing is pretty much all you’ll need. If you do plan to visit places that require a dress code, one or two outfits should be sufficient. The Inn on Siesta Key offers free laundry machines to their guests, so you can bring just a few changes of dress and be fine.
There are so many wonderful restaurants, not just in Siesta Key, but in the entire Sarasota area, it’s impossible to mention them all here. Whatever your taste and price range, you can find it. Some have a dress code, but for many you’ll be in good company just wearing shorts and flip flops.
Of course, if you are on an extended stay vacation, eating out can get expensive. Each unit at the Inn on Siesta Key offers a full kitchen, so you can save money by preparing meals yourself. There is a grocery store within walking distance where you can pick up anything you’ll need. And, of course, if you save money on your meals, you’ll have more money left in your budget for shopping and activities.
There is always something going on in Siesta Key and Sarasota. Check out our events page to view upcoming shows and entertainment. Attractions, live entertainment, farmers markets and community events are widespread and the staff at the Inn on Siesta Key can help you decide what activities might be right for you.
If your visit includes a Sunday evening, try the community drum circle on Siesta Key Beach. This unique event takes place every Sunday evening about one hour before sunset and is perfect for the whole family. This is not a commercial event, it’s just a local phenomenon that continues to grow and must be seen to be truly appreciated.
There’s so much to appreciate and enjoy during your Siesta Key vacation, and a little planning ahead can be the difference between a good trip and a fantastic getaway that will create memories for a lifetime. If you have specific questions about the area, please don’t hesitate to call the Inn on Siesta Key before your stay and ask their opinions. We are always ready to help!
