While there are no golf courses on the island, Siesta Key is just minutes away from Saratoga County, where numerous posh golf courses can be found. Still, the island itself has much to offer, so if you're making Siesta Key your home ground while golfing in the area, there are some must-see things to explore.
The Beach
Siesta Key's main attractions are its pristine beaches, which have won awards and are legendary in Florida. The island has three beaches: Turtle Beach, Siesta Public Beach and Crescent Beach. Turtle Beach offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, surfing and playing sports (there's a volleyball court and a boat launch right on the sand). Siesta Public Beach was named "The Best Sand Beach in America" by the Travel Channel in 2004 and it offers shallow waters near the shore (ideal for small kids), year-round lifeguard presence and plenty of nearby shops and restaurants. Crescent Beach is the more private of the three and popular for snorkeling and diving.
Siesta Key Beaches
www.siestakeychamber.com/beaches.php?id_cat=24
Oak Ford Golf Club
The Oak Ford Golf Club is one of a kind. Located within a wildlife preserve, the course is splashed among live oaks, lakes and streams, swamps and marshes and even a palm forest. While the three nine-hole courses are impressive enough to attract aficionados, many come here for the locale. There are no condos in view but visitors may spot bobcats, foxes, deer and even alligators. Golfers of every skill level can play here, as Oak Ford features four different sets of tees.
Oak Ford Golf Club
1552 Palm View Road
Sarasota, FL 34240
(941) 371-3680
www.oakfordgolfclub.com
Watersports
Siesta Key is an ideal destination for those who love the water. Jet skiing, cruises and parasailing over the ocean are all popular and several area companies offer guided tours and rentals. For those who prefer a more relaxing experience, sail boat rental and evening cruises are both popular. Sunset sails allow you a chance to see dolphins or sip champagne while exploring the waters.
Enterprise Sailing Charters
2 Marina Plaza
Sarasota, FL 34236
(888) 232-7768
www.sarasotasailing.com
About The Author
Sarah Dray has been writing since 1996. She specializes in health, wellness and travel topics and has credits in various publications, including "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." She is also a seasoned independent traveler and a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant. Dray is pursuing a criminal justice degree at Penn Foster College.
