If you come to Siesta Key for a vacation, you can expect to spend a lot of time on the beach. One of the most popular activities for tourists and locals is relaxing on the island’s stunning white-sand beaches.
The famed white sand on Siesta Key’s beaches is considered from the Appalachian Mountains, where it was washed down through the rivers and deposited on the island’s beaches throughout time. The beaches on Siesta Key are noted for their calm, swimmable seas and popularity as a water sports destination.
When planning a family vacation to Siesta Key, it’s helpful to prepare for your next beach trip, and you’ll find some useful information below to assist you.
Siesta Key’s Weather
The weather on Siesta Key fluctuates significantly from season to season, but for the most part, the island’s beaches are pleasant and warm, with swimmable water throughout the year. With 53 inches of rain per year, the Siesta Key area receives more precipitation than the rest of the country, whereas the national average is 39.
During the winter months, the water temperature in the Gulf of Mexico remains about 65 degrees Fahrenheit, which is not ideal for most swimmers but may be appropriate for some of the more hardy ones. The air temperature hovers around 74 degrees, making most days ideal for lounging on the beach or exercising outdoors.
In the spring, the water temperature in the Gulf of Mexico rises to an average of approximately 76 degrees, making it comfortable for most people. In comparison, air temperatures climb to an average of around 85 degrees. This is a fantastic time to visit because the beaches are less crowded and the weather is still warm enough for beach outings and swimming.
The summer months on Siesta Key are the warmest and most popular, with air temperatures hovering around 91 degrees Fahrenheit and water temperatures hovering about 86 degrees. Swimming is thus very comfortable and delightful almost every day of the summer. Summers might be hot and humid on some days, but regular thunderstorms and seaside breezes help to keep things cool.
Beach Vacation Suggestions
Check the weather: If you’re going to the beach, check the forecast for rain ahead of time. You’ll want to dress appropriately for humid days since high humidity will raise the heat index and make even cooler temperatures feel more uncomfortable.
Many beach things can be hired, such as beach umbrellas, beach wheelchairs, chairs, skimboards, boogie boards, strollers, and snorkeling equipment. Bringing this equipment with you on your trip to Siesta Key might be inconvenient, so renting it as needed once you arrive is usually better.
Arrive early to ensure parking: Although Siesta Beach and the other major beaches on the island offer hundreds of parking places, you will want to arrive early to ensure that you have the best chance of finding one. One of the best advantages of staying at Tropical Breeze Resort is that you can stroll to the beach whenever you want and avoid the headaches of locating a parking spot.
Pack food just in case: While many of the beaches on Siesta Key have concession stands or restaurants nearby, others do not, so it’s a good idea to bring a cooler with food and snacks just in case you can’t find a place to eat.
Don’t expect lifeguards to be present: Another key factor to consider for families with children is that lifeguards are not always present at the beach you choose to visit. Although lifeguards are present at public beaches such as Siesta Beach throughout the year, lifeguards are not always present at other beach access sites. If you prefer to swim, keep a close eye on your children, and the best option for families is Siesta Beach, which has lifeguards despite being crowded.