Beaches

Being directly on Siesta Beach is wonderful. There are many small private rentals available. By renting right on the beach, there will no traffic filled roads to cross, and the chance of a beautiful direct Gulf of Mexico view. (But of course be careful if you're really looking for a great view, to make sure you'll get one, because not all of the units on Siesta Beach actually have a Gulf View).

The main disadvantages of being right on the Siesta Beach can be the expensive rental rates.

Crescent Beach has the largest number of rentals . There are many large Condominiums with rentals, a few nightly, many weekly, and a few monthly.  By renting right on the beach, there will no traffic filled roads to cross, and the chance of a beautiful direct Gulf of Mexico view. (But of course be careful if you're really looking for a great view, to make sure you'll get one, because not all of the units on Siesta Beach actually have a Gulf View).

The main disadvantages of being right on the Crescent Beach can be the crowds, the noise, and the expensive rental rates.

Located just 4 miles South of Siesta/Crescent Beach, Turtle Beach is the favorite hangout for locals. It brings back "old Florida" with Green Parrots squawking in the palm trees surrounding a perfect Lagoon (Blind Pass Lagoon) for kayaking, fishing, or boat launching. Turtle Beach itself was completely re-nourshed in 2016 and is some 100 Feet wide, and goes on "forever" South. There are kids swings, picnic tables, and grills for that old-fashion picnic under the shade of the trees.

Advantages include a much less crowded Beach and great Beach fishing. There are only 2 Resort Condos located on Turtle Beach, and they both have some of the very best "Gulf Views" available on all of Siesta Key because they look directly at the Ocean that is only about 100 feet away. Another advantage is the slightly lower cost of direct Beach Front rentals there.

A disadvantage of Turtle Beach is that it does not have the "Sugar White Sand" of Siesta/Crescent Beach, but more "normal" sand of many Florida Beaches. TIP: Often renters will stay at Turtle Beach to avoid the crowds and get the best Ocean View, and drive up to Siesta Beach an afternoon or two to try it out.