SIESTA KEY, FLORIDA

DR. BEACH'S PICKS FOR AMERICA'S BEST BEACHES 2009

Dr. Beach Home

Whether you dream of escaping to your own tropical retreat or living full-time near the warm Gulf waters, you'll find it's worthy chasing the dream of Siesta Key. The beach is by far the most popular amenity in Siesta Key.

Homes for sale in this barrier island are dotted amid a landscape offering some of the most gorgeous scenery found in the U.S. Current Siesta Key homes for sale, range from around $400,000 to over $8,000,000.

Condos for sale deliver stunning views of the world-class beach which is truly unlike any other. Voted "One of the World's Best Beaches" by the Travel Channel, Crescent Beach (the main beach at Siesta Key) possesses some distinctive qualities. As you stroll along the shore, you're sure to notice the sand looks and feels quite different than that of other beaches. It's not the typical crushed shells or coral. This glistening, powdery-white sand is made of 99% genuine crystal-quartz. Confirmed by Harvard University's geology department, the quartz allows the sand to remain cool even on a scorching summer afternoon. Getting from the beach to your car or waterfront condo is always a leisurely walk rather than a mad dash. Currently, Siesta Key condos for sale range from $300,000 to over $3,000,000.

 The Lifestyle of Siesta Key

Homes for sale in this area open the door to a lifestyle that's more attitude than routine. Everything about Siesta Key reflects relaxed, fine casual living at its best. As a pedestrian and bicycle friendly town, Siesta Key is easy to get around. With 2 quaint oceanfront villages in the heart of the area, you can quickly find everything you're looking for.

Meander through Siesta Key Village and you'll encounter an abundance of sidewalk cafes, specialty restaurants, day spas, grocery stores, drugstores, florists and much more. But Siesta Key is more than shops, condos and homes for sale. It's also a fascinating source of natural beauty.

Siesta Key's Natural Beauty

With mild highs that range from 70 in the winter to 92 in summer, full-time, vacation and retired residents find the perfect setting for wildlife encounters in the wetlands and woodlands nearby. With inspiring views - including that of the Point of Rocks limestone formation - and excellent snorkeling, nature lovers have plenty to choose from. In addition, outdoor enthusiasts have access to all things water, including extensive boating opportunities, scuba diving, fishing and much more. 

Siesta Key is surrounded by water with the Gulf of Mexico to the west and Sarasota Bay to the east, this area opens its arms wide to those who seek adventure on the waves. Boat lovers have many options with plenty of homes directly on Sarasota Bay. Almost 50 miles of canals give you enormous possibilities. There are many options for your next waterfront home, including canal-front, bay-front, oceanfront and beachfront property in private neighborhoods, such as the Sanderling Club and Solymar. 

The north end of Siesta Key is considered by many to be the most desirable because of its prime location. You'll have quick and easy access to the mainland and downtown Sarasota. With a population of about 12,000 full time residents, and double that with snow birds and tourists, Siesta Key keeps busy though out the year because residents too, like to enjoy this charming and resplendent beach. Whether you live here year round or just visiting, everyone can indulge in water activities such as parasailing, snorkeling, jet skiing, boating, fishing, kayaking and many more. For those who want to shop or eat out, Siesta Key Village offers an ecclectic array of possibilities. This hotspot is lined with cafes, casual stores and even has live music. Siesta Key has all of the amenities but with a carefree and laid back atmosphere.

Sunny beaches with crystal-white, powdery sand that stretch for miles. Shops from the chic and elegant to the hip and funky, with all sorts of fashion, beach accessories and souvenirs. Restaurants where you can go to grab a quick breakfast or lunch in your flip-flops and sandy toes, or to relax in style over an extraordinary dinner.

Siesta Village north of the public beach is a mostly pedestrian village area, ideal for "People Watching" from sidewalk cafes. Here, as on the south end, stores, shops, boutiques and restaurants thrive in the midst of commercial and residential activities. You'll also find a drug store and post office in this village area. The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce is conveniently located in Davidson's Plaza, in the center of the village.

There are two shopping/restaurant districts on Siesta Key: The Crescent Beach area, south of where Stickney Point Road connects to Midnight Pass Road, showcases boutiques shops and restaurants comfortably mixed in with attractions and commercial businesses. You'll find a full service grocery store, nearby drug store and post office all convenient to surrounding accommodations and beach access areas. From one end of the island to the other, you experience a vibrant island lifestyle.