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Live streaming view from the Siesta Beach live cam located on the western coast of Florida. This is a high quality camera that pans back and forth with great views of the beach, people, ocean and stunning sunsets.
Siesta Beach, located on the Gulf Coast of Florida near Sarasota, is consistently ranked as one of the top beaches in the United States and the world. With its soft, powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters, it's easy to see why this slice of paradise attracts beach lovers from all over.
One of the things that makes Siesta Beach so special is its sand. Unlike most beaches that have sand composed of pulverized coral, the sand at Siesta Beach is 99% pure quartz. The quartz sand is incredibly soft, cool to the touch even on the hottest days, and gives the beach its signature bright white color. Walking barefoot on the velvety sand is an unforgettable experience.
In addition to its stunning sand, Siesta Beach boasts calm, shallow waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards right on the beach to explore the clear gulf waters. The beach is also very wide and long, providing plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sunshine without feeling crowded, even during peak season.
Siesta Beach has great amenities and facilities to make your visit comfortable and convenient. There are picnic areas with grills, playground equipment for kids, tennis courts, and volleyball courts. Restrooms, showers and changing rooms are available. A free trolley services the beach, village and surrounding area. Siesta Beach is very clean and well-maintained.
If you're wondering what Siesta Beach is like, picture a laid-back old Florida vibe without high rises or big developments. The beach has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that makes you feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle, even though you're just a short drive from the city of Sarasota. Spend your days lounging on the soft sand, taking refreshing dips in the gulf, and enjoying the plentiful Florida sunshine.
In the evenings, head to Siesta Key Village, a charming strip of outdoor cafes, seafood restaurants and beach shops just a short walk from the beach. Here you'll find quirky local spots and lively bars where you can enjoy a cold drink and live music as the sun goes down. It's a fun place to stroll around, people watch, and soak up the beachy ambiance.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in and around Siesta Beach. Rent a bike and pedal around Siesta Key, taking in the sights and the sea breeze. Go parasailing for a bird's eye view over the gorgeous coastline. Take a boat tour or rent a boat to explore the nearby waterways and mangrove tunnels. You can also fish off the pier or book a fishing charter.
Wildlife lovers will enjoy the variety of animals you can spot at Siesta Beach and the surrounding area. Dolphins are a common sight frolicking just offshore. During nesting season, you may see giant sea turtles laying their eggs on the beach at night. Plenty of shorebirds like herons, egrets, ibis and pelicans also call the area home. An eco-tour is a great way to learn more about the local wildlife.
If you're looking for a fun day trip from Siesta Beach, consider visiting the Ringling Museum. Just a 20 minute drive away in Sarasota, this museum complex features an art museum, circus museum, historic theater, and beautiful bayfront grounds and gardens. You can easily spend a whole day exploring the various attractions. It's a nice change of pace from the beach.
Another popular nearby attraction is the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, also in Sarasota. The 15-acre gardens are home to thousands of colorful plants and tropical flowers, with a focus on epiphytes like orchids and bromeliads. Stroll through the lush grounds, take a gardening class, or enjoy a meal at the garden cafe. It's a lovely oasis.
When it comes to deciding where to stay in Siesta Beach, you have a range of options from resorts to vacation rentals. For a little luxury, the Hyatt Siesta Key Beach is a highly-rated resort right on the beach with a pool, fitness center and on-site restaurants. For a more intimate experience, the Tropical Breeze Resort has charming, Key West-style cottages surrounding a garden courtyard.
If you prefer a vacation rental, there are many condos and houses available, from cozy beach bungalows to spacious homes that can accommodate the whole family. Renting a place with a kitchen can help save money on dining out. Look for rentals within walking distance of the beach and village for the most convenience.
Foodies will be happy to know that there are plenty of great restaurants in Siesta Key and nearby Sarasota. One local favorite is the Siesta Key Oyster Bar, which has a great selection of fresh seafood and a fun, casual atmosphere. Another popular spot is the Hub Baja Grill, known for its fresh Baja-style Mexican fare and margaritas, with a view of the beach.
For fine dining, head to Ophelia's on the Bay, an upscale seafood restaurant with panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. The extensive wine list and elegant setting make this a perfect spot for a special occasion dinner. In Sarasota, don't miss Indigenous, a chef-owned restaurant with a focus on locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients and innovative cuisine.
If you're craving Italian, Flavio's Brick Oven Pizza serves up delicious thin crust pizzas, homemade pastas and other Italian specialties. For a casual breakfast or lunch, the Sun Garden Cafe is a charming spot with an outdoor patio, known for its fresh juices and smoothies. Or grab a cinnamon roll or muffin from the Siesta Key Village Cafe.
No matter what your food preferences are, you won't go hungry in Siesta Key. From fresh Gulf seafood to international flavors, there's something for everyone. And don't forget to sample some key lime pie, a Florida dessert staple!
As you can see, Siesta Beach truly has it all - unparalleled natural beauty, a relaxed atmosphere, plentiful activities and great dining and accommodations. It's the perfect destination for those who love the outdoors and crave a little adventure on their beach vacations. Once you sink your toes into that powdery soft sand, you may never want to leave!
Watch live from the Siesta Beach Live Cam.