Siesta Key - FLvacationguides.com
Transcription
Siesta Key - FLvacationguides.com
SiestaKey Key Siesta Destination 2014 Sarasota’s Premier Real Estate Company Since 1983 Residences • Rentals Investment Properties For Sales and the Inside Track on the Best Real Estate Values in Sarasota A premiere vacation rental company serving Siesta Key and the surrounding area Stop by to see our collection of sand from around the world. See why Siesta Key was voted the “World’s Whitest, Finest Sand”! Sales 941 346-3500 888 437-3500 beckmannproperties.com Rentals 941 346-3200 888 437-3500 stayonsiesta.com Josh Beckmann, cell 941 321-3500 6604 Midnight Pass Rd • Siesta Key, FL 34242 Visit: flvacationguides.com Planning your Florida vacation on Siesta Key is now much easier thanks to the online version of this visitor’s guide! For the most current Siesta Key vacation and area information, visit our website: flvacationguides.com follow us on facebook facebook.com/siestakeyguide Beach WebCam Online Exclusives Featured Specials Sign up for our e-newsletter! Table of Contents Destination Siesta Key Welcome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Siesta Key History. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Area Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Shopping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Transportation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Recreation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Beaches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Dining. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Where to Stay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Attractions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Area Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Cultural Activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Weddings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Cover created by: Frank Bernard, with photos by Adventure Marketing & Publishing Group Florida Vacations Destination Siesta Key is a yearly publication marketed and published by Carol Bergere Marketing Services, Inc., dba ADVenture Marketing & Publishing Group. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without permission of the publisher. Copyright ©2014. The information in this publication is gathered and carefully compiled in such a way as to insure accuracy. ADVenture Marketing & Publishing Group does not and cannot guarantee the correctness of all information furnished, nor the complete absence of errors or omissions, hence no responsibility for it can be nor is assumed. photo credit s/b @2014 Garrity Photography-The Beach Photog If you are interested in advertising, or your organization wishes to submit information for publication, please email us at [email protected] or phone us at 941-321-3601. www.flvacationguides.com 5 Magnificent Views From magnificent views of the Gulf of Mexico to the serene views of Sarasota Bay, The Palm Bay Club offers a unique variety or one-, two- and three-bedroom condominiums. All available at daily rate with a 3 night minimum stay required. Swim in one of our two pools, bike to our white sandy beach, have an outdoor BBQ, or just take a swim. We also boast lighted tennis courts, boat docks and a fishing pier. And don’t forget to relax in our outdoor spa. All suites include a fully equipped kitchen and all linens and beach towels. We also provide free wireless Internet and flat panel TV’s in both the living rooms and each bedroom. 5960 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key, FL 34242 941-349-1911 • 1-800-PALMBAY or 1-800-725-6229 www.PalmBayClub.com Welcome to Paradise! Destination Siesta Key Powder white sand, spectacular sunsets, crystal clear waters...Siesta Key, with its award-winning beach and tropical beauty is the perfect beach getaway. Enjoy your stay in a quaint cottage or a high end condominium. If you are looking for beach shops, upscale boutiques, a lite lunch or a gourmet meal, an afternoon ice cream, or a hip night club, Siesta Key is the place to be! Siesta Key is a barrier island located just offshore from Sarasota. If you crave entertainment or adventure, Sarasota has a variety of activities to add to your tropical beach vacation. Treat yourself to a world-class show at one of our many performing arts centers. Tour the John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art, with its bayfront mansion and beautifully landscaped grounds. Spend a day at Mote Aquarium which houses over 100 species of marine life including sharks, sea turtles, and manatees. Play a round of golf or a game of tennis. Take a fishing trip or a dinner cruise. It’s all here for you. Kick off your shoes and stay awhile... discover why Siesta Key is one of America’s Best Beaches! Siesta Sun Beach Villas Directly On The Beach! (941) 349-8233 • (888) 556-3577 www.siestasunbeachvillas.com www.FlVacationGuides.com LIVE WEBCAM! Live footage of Siesta Key Beach Accommodations • Dining Shopping • Attractions Area Events • Cultural Activities www.FlVacationGuides.com www.flvacationguides.com 7 AVE EL L SIE RD STA DR B OC EA N l f G u #3 HIG EL SIESTA VILLAGE #4 41 the LandinGS S BEACH ACCESS #5 PR OC RD #7 BEACH ACCESS #8 BEE RID TO GE INT EXIT 2 RD ERS 0 TAT 8 E 75 S h o P P i n G t ow n S o u t h G at e HT PAS BEACH #2 ACCESS Roberts Bay w e S t f i e L d D. LV MIDNIG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Pa R a d i S e PLaza Y BA D R Big Pass OS AV #1 PR EY SH BEACH ACCESS TO R #9 #10 RD . H AC BE BEACH ACCESS #11 o f RD SIESTA KEY PUBLIC BEACH STICKNEY PT RD BEACH ACCESS POINT OF ROCKS 29 #12 #13 10 98 231 1 Quincy Havana Monticello Amelia Island JACKSONVILLE 10 98 Santa Rosa Beach Mayo Branford Seaside 19 Apalachicola Little Sarasota Bay 95 75 TALLAHASSEE 319 301 27 Orange Park High Springs Gainesville Steinhatchee St Augustine Flagler Beach San Mateo 75 301 Micanopy Ocala Lady Lake Cedar Key 27 1 Daytona Beach Deland Mt. Dora Sanford Lake Helen New Smyrna Beach 4 Maitland 19 ORLANDO Brooksville 4 Haines City Winter Haven Clearwater 60 ST. PETERSBURG Indialantic Lake Wales 60 N. Hutchinson Is. Jensen Beach Stuart 27 Anna Maria Is. Sebring Sarasota Siesta Key Arcadia 95 75 Port Charlotte Punta Gorda Englewood Indiantown 80 80 Sanibel Palm Beach 27 NAPLES 75 MIAMI Coconut Grove Coral Gables 1 Everglades City 1 Key West Big Pine Key Key Largo Tavernier FLORIDA KEYS TURTLE PUBLIC BEACH BEACH ACCESS PUBLIC PARKING Destination Siesta Key CLARK RD. TO EXIT 205 INTERSTATE 75 S a R a S o ta Pav i L L i o n G u L f G at e v i L L aG e weStfieLd ShoPPinG MaLL S a R a S o ta S Q ua R e M ov i e t h e at e R 95 75 Bushnell 8 SIESTA SOUTH VILLAGE Thomasville, GA 10 RD. SW IFT c o x i M e 41 Getting to Siesta Key Destination Siesta Key Siesta Key is a barrier island of Sarasota. It is located 40 miles south of Tampa, Florida along the Gulf of Mexico. If you are traveling by car, take exit 205 off I-75. This will lead you down Clark Road and over Stickney Pt. Bridge. The road ends at Midnight Pass Rd. Siesta Key lodging is located on both ends of the key. Turtle Beach is to the South, and the Siesta Key Public Beach is to the north. If you choose to fly, SRQ is the airport that serves the Sarasota area. SRQ is an international airport, with flights arriving and departing daily and is approximately 10 miles north of Siesta Key. If you are looking for a larger variety of carriers, TPA (located in Tampa) is an hours drive away and is home to most airlines. Photo credit s/b @2014 Garrity Photography-The Beach Photog Airlines serving SRQ are as follows: Air Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-888-422-7533 Air France. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-237-2747 Alitalia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-223-5730 Delta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-221-1212 Jet Blue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-538-2583 KLM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-225-2525 United. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-864-8331 US Airways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-428-4322 Car Rentals available at SRQ include the folowing: Enterprise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-736-8222 Hertz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-654-3131 Thrifty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-847-4389 The following taxi services provide area and airport transportation. Diplomat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 941-355-5155 Emerald Green Cab Taxi. . . . . . . 941-922-6666 Metro Taxi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 941-365-4075 Sarasota provides local public transportation via area bus lines, with several stops along Siesta Key. For information on routes and rates, Sarasota County Authority Transit (SCAT) can be reached at (941) 316-1234, or online at scat.scgov.net www.flvacationguides.com 9 That's where we wan t to go! Located directly on the aqua blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico with “the world’s whitest, finest sand” at your doorstep. All newly remodeled suites featuring 32” flat screen tv’s, stereo entertainment system, granite countertops, fully equipped kitchens with all new appliances, high speed internet access. Beach privileges include free use of sailboats, kayaks, standing boards, cabanas, barbecue and beach equipment. Guests enjoy unlimited golf privileges at local golf club. Choice of studio efficiency, 1 & 2 bedroom fully equipped suites. Weekly rates apply. The Only Siesta Key Resort Offering Private Complimentary Beach Service to our Guests Toll Free: U.S. & Canada 1.800.475.1176 941.349.1176 6744 Sarasea Circle, Siesta Key, Sarasota, FL 34242 www.seaclubv.com [email protected] Siesta Key Beach Destination Siesta Key The Beach is Absolutely Fantastic! Welcome to the one of America’s Best Beaches! Siesta Key has consistently been ranked as one of America’s top beaches, and in 2011 Dr. Beach chose Siesta Key as the #1 Beach in America. With it’s expansive size - hundreds of yards wide and over 3 miles long - there is plenty of room for beachcombers and sunbathers alike. The beach is known for its clean, pure white sand which is not only beautiful, but is also soft and cool to the touch. In addition, the sparkling aqua-marine water with its moderate Gulf temperature is clean, clear and inviting. Public Beach Turtle Beach The public beach has a pavilion with eatery including ice cream and beach shop. The beach also has a playground for the kids, small picnic shelters with grills, volleyball courts, lighted public tennis courts, and a 20 station fitness trail. Lifeguards are on duty year round, and beach wheelchairs are available. Turtle Beach is on the south end of Siesta Key. If you want to collect seashells or to avoid the crowd, its beach is smaller and less frequented. Turtle Beach facilities include a picnic area, small playground, picnic shelters, volleyball court and boat ramp. The boat ramp in the center of the park will launch your boat into Blind Pass Lagoon, providing access to the bay. Please refer to local navigation charts for more information on navigating local waters. Point of Rocks Photo credit s/b @2014 Garrity Photography-The Beach Photog Point of Rocks, located at Beach Access #13, extends into the Gulf of Mexico and is a formation of limestone rock. The rock formation provides a habitat to a wide variety of fish, and is ideal for snorkeling. www.flvacationguides.com 11 Sarasota Surf and Racquet Club Siesta Key, Florida 5900 Midnight Pass Rd., Sarasota, FL 34242 941-349-2200 800-237-5671 Fax: 941-349-2203 Toll Free: U.S. & Canada www.sarasotasurf.com [email protected] Where to Stay Destination Siesta Key You’ll find the perfect home away from home on Siesta Key. No matter what your style, taste, or budget, there is a wide variety of rental units available on our island. From cottages to beachside condominiums, we have rooms to suit every taste. There are a variety of rental options available on Siesta Key, including hotels, condominiums and private homes. You can pick a location on or near the beach, the bay, or within walking distance to area shopping and dining. Many resorts have heated swimming pools, jacuzzis, tennis courts, and some even offer a place to dock your boat. Most accommodations require a minimum stay (some as little as 3 days). Please refer to our listing of accommodations to find the perfect place for you and your family. Keep in mind that rates change throughout the year. We consider our peak season from November thru April. Book your room early for best selection. Many accommodations offer special rates in the late summer months. Please check with our advertisers for additional information, or refer to our website at www.flvacationguides.com. 6150 Midnight Pass Road • 941.349.6101 • 877.349.6101 www.IslandHouseBeachResort.com www.flvacationguides.com 13 LESS THAN A WEEK Captiva Beach Resort PHONE:941-349-4131 800-349-4131 WEB:www.captivabeachresort.com A DDRESS:6772 Sarasea Circle Siesta Key, FL 34242 Tranquil and Serene is the atmosphere created at the Newly remodeled Captiva Beach Resort. Each unique topically styled unit has fully equipped kitchens. After a day at award winning Siesta Key Beach, relax under the twinkle lit Palm trees at the resort or take a stroll into Crescent Village and enjoy the island life of Siesta Key. Hibiscus Suites PHONE:(941) 921-5797 WEB:www.hibiscussuitesfl.com A DDRESS:1735 Stickney Point Rd Sarasota, FL 34231 The recently remodeled Hibiscus Suites Hotel is located less than a mile from the white sandy beaches of Siesta Key, ranked number 1 beach in the U.S. Hibiscus Suites features an outdoor heated swimming pool and all of our comfortable suites offer fully equipped kitchens, premium television channels and free wi-fi with all the amenities of home. Enjoy a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast with each reservation. We have plenty of parking to accommodate trailers and boats. Weekly and daily rates available. Palm Bay Club Assn. Inc. Siesta Sun Beach Villas PHONE:(941) 349-1911 PHONE:(941) 349-8233 (800) 725-6229 FAX:(941) 349-1034 WEB:www.palmbayclub.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:5960 Midnight Pass Rd. 206 units. 1, 2, 3BR units on the Gulf Beach and/or Bay. Units are fully equipped, featuring cable TV/VCR and all electric kitchens. Tennis, boat docks, rec. room, exercise room, laundry facilities, sauna, 2 pools, spa, and BBQ. AAA “Three Diamond” rates. 3-night minimum. Rates vary by season. Weekly and Monthly rates available. Discounts apply. Sea Club V Beach Resort PHONE:(941) 349-1176 (800) 475-1176 FAX:(941) 349-7698 WEB:www.seaclubv.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6744 Sarasea Circle Located directly on the aqua blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico with “the world’s whitest, finest sand” at your doorstep. All newly remodeled suites featuring 32” flat screen tv’s, stereo entertainment system, granite countertops, fully equipped kitchens with all new appliances. High speed internet access. Beach privileges include free use of sailboats, kayaks, cabanas, barbecue and beach equipment. Guests enjoy unlimited golf privileges at local golf club. Choice of studio, 1 & 2 bedroom suites. Weekly rates. Daily walk in rates when available. Siesta Royale Apartments Inc. PHONE:(941) 349-4014 WEB:www.siestaroyale.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6334 Midnight Pass Rd. Siesta Royale features gulf-side apartments on Siesta Key. Enjoy our beautiful private beach, heated pool & shuffleboard courts. Each residence is nicely furnished & equipped with all the necessities. Laundry facilities are on-site. Five night minimum. Free wireless internet. Sorry, no pets or credit cards. 14 Destination Siesta Key (888)-556-3577 FAX:(941) 346-5336 WEB:www.siestasunbeachvillas.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6424 Midnight Pass Rd. Charming “old Florida” efficiencies, 1 & 2 BR units directly on the Gulf beach. Heated pool, beach chairs, lounges, BBQ grills, picnic tables. Small pets accepted. Nightly rates available. Visa and MC accepted. Tropical Beach Resorts PHONE:(941) 349-3330 (800) 235-3493 FAX:(941) 346-0025 WEB:www.tropicalbeachresorts.com EMAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6717 Sara Sea Circle Choose from three beautiful beach resorts, each distinctive in character to match your mood, budget, and style. Located directly on Siesta Key offering award-winning daily rentals! Enjoy a gorgeous heated pool, aqua sport rentals, private beach access, tiki hut BBQ grills, volleyball courts, full daily maid service and free wireless Internet. Call for specials! Tropical Breeze Resort PHONE:(941) 349-1125 (800) 300-2492 FAX:(941) 349-0057 WEB:www.tropicalbreezeinn.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:140 Columbus Blvd. A tropical garden paradise, complete with 64 charming one and two-bedroom suites and cottages. We offer full kitchens, gas grills, 3 heated pools and beach chairs. Emphasizing cleanliness, friendliness, comfort, all amenities, services. A haven for honey-mooners, active seniors and families alike; perfect for wedding groups and family reunions. Enjoy the nearby ice cream parlors, and sidewalk cafes. Friendly pets welcome. AAA approved. Daily, weekly & monthly rates available. Where to Stay Continued Destination Siesta Key Siesta Royale features gulf-side apartments on Siesta Key. Enjoy our beautiful private beach, heated pool & shuffleboard courts. Each residence is nicely furnished & equipped with all the necessities. Laundry facilities are on-site. Five night minimum. Free wireless internet. Sorry, no pets or credit cards. 349.4014 941. 6334 Midnight Pass Road Sarasota, FL 34242 Directly on the Gulf of Mexico www.SiestaRoyale.com Old Florida Charm with WiFi Convenience Directly on the Gulf of Mexico 888-49-ALOHA 941.349.5410 www.alohakai.net [email protected] 6020 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key, FL 34242 www.flvacationguides.com 15 ONE WEEK MINIMUM Anchorage Condo Association Crystal Sands Condominium Sarasota Surf & Racquet Club PHONE:(941) 349-7007 PHONE:(941) 349-2200 FAX:(941) 349-2203 WEB:www.sarasota-surf.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:5900 Midnight Pass Rd. (888) 419-1446 FAX:(941) 346-1963 WEB:www.crystalsandsonsiestakey.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6300 Midnight Pass Rd. (866) 500-4030 FAX:(941) 349-4031 WEB:www.the-anchorage.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6415 Midnight Pass Rd. 1 & 2 BR Gulf front condos. 1 & 2 & 3 BR villas. Two heated pools, covered parking. No pets. Two week minimum, villas one week minimum off-season. 189 Condominiums. 1 & 2 BR units on Gulf beach, 4 tennis courts, resident pro, full tennis program, 2 swimming pools (1 heated), fitness center, BBQ grills and picnic area, some covered parking. 2 bedroom spacious, nicely decorated units on the Bay. Private balconies in every unit offer views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway. Private Gulf beach access. Tennis, saunas, shuffleboard, boat slip, pool. Gulf & Bay Club Bayside Sea Club V Beach Resort PHONE:(941) 346-3499 PHONE:(941) 349-1176 PHONE:(941) 349-4030 Casa Mar Condo Resort PHONE:(941) 349-4266 (866) 405-2275 FAX:(941) 349-0457 WEB:www.casamarresort.net E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6006 Midnight Pass Rd. 74 condo units situated on Siesta Beach; studio efficiency, 1, 2 & 3 BR condos nestled within tropical courtyard with picnic areas and gas grills. Beachfront complex offers a tennis court, 2 swimming pools, 4 shuffleboard courts, volley ball, library & video library, high speed internet, 2 on-site laundry rooms, cable TV, beach sun shelters, convenient covered parking and more! Crescent Arms Vacation Rentals PHONE:(941) 349-4171 FAX:(941) 349-2174 WEB:www.crescentarmsrentals.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6308 Midnight Pass Rd. Just 25 ft. from Crescent Beach. 1 to 2BR/2 BA high-rise and villa units. Nicely furnished units, heated pool, clubhouse, gas grill, covered parking, cable. No pets. (800) 349-6156 FAX:(941) 349-6156 WEB:www.gulfandbaybayside.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:1200 Siesta Bayside Dr. “Key West Style”. Upscale 1, 2 & 3 BR units with Gulf & beach access. Gorgeous tropical setting. Two heated pools, tennis courts, grills, washers & dryers in all units, garages. Island House Beach Resort PHONE:(941) 349-6101 (877)-349-6101 WEB:www.islandhousebeachresort.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6150 Midnight Pass Rd. 73 - 2BR furnished units on the Gulf beach. Pool, shuffleboard, recreation room, phones, cable TV, wireless internet, laundry, and covered parking. Crescent Beach rated one of the best in the world. The Ringling Beach House PHONE:941-349-1236 WEB:www.ringlingbeachhouse.com A DDRESS:523 Beach Road You will love it here! Stay here - WALK TO EVERYTHING! We are just steps across the street to Siesta Beach and a short 3 block stroll to the Siesta Key Village - shops and restaurants. We are condominium/ villa style style accommodations that are fully furnished with full size kitchens stocked with pots, pans, utensils, linens, etc. We have 2 large heated pools, BBQ grills, beach chairs, laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi and more. Unit types: 2BR/1BA, 2BR/2BA, Premium 2BR/1BA, Premium 2BR/2BA, 3BR/2.5BA. Weekly rates, daily rates, prorates (when available). Trip Advisor rated #1 Specialty Lodging Resort on Siesta Key! May all who enter as guests, leave as friends... 16 Destination Siesta Key (800) 475-1176 FAX:(941) 349-7698 WEB:www.seaclubv.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6744 Sara Sea Circle Located directly on the aqua blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico with “the world’s whitest, finest sand” at your doorstep. All newly remodeled suites featuring flat screen tv’s, granite countertops, fully equipped kitchens with all new appliances, high speed internet access, cd & dvd players. Beach privileges include free use of sailboats, kayaks, cabanas, barbecue and beach equipment. Guests enjoy unlimited golf privileges at local country club. Choice of studio, 1 & 2 bedroom condominiums. Weekly rates. Siesta 4-Rent PHONE:(941) 349-5500 (877) 482-5550 FAX:(941) 349-5527 WEB:www.siesta4rent.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6555 Midnight Pass Rd. We offer Studios - 5 BR Condos and Homes here on Beautiful Siesta Key Beach. All units fully equipped, most directly on the beach or beach access. Pets welcome at some. Call or check website above for rates. 1 week minimum. Steps to the Beach Walk to Shops & Restaurants Luxurious vacation apartments surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and Little Sarasota Bay Mention r Code FL A foer ff O l a ci e p S More Than a Resort...It’s Your Own Island Village! www.the-anchorage.com (941) 349-4030 • (866) 500-4030 www.tropicalbreezeinn.com 941-349-1125 800-300-2492 140 Columbus Blvd., Siesta Key 1 & 2 BR UNITs. LOcaTed dIRecTLy ON sIesTa Key BeacH. easy WaLK TO sIesTa VILLage. HeaTed pOOL, cOVeRed paRKINg. Beach Terrace TWO MONTH MINIMUM 5400 Ocean Blvd., siesta Key 941.349.7700 Fax 941.346.1856 [email protected] www.flvacationguides.com 17 TWO WEEK MINIMUM PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Crystal Sands Condominium Argus Property Management, Inc. PHONE:(941) 349-7007 PHONE:(941) 349-0917 FAX:(941) 927-6767 WEB:www.argusmgmt.com EMAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:2477 Stickney Pt. Rd., Ste. 118A (888) 419-1446 FAX:(941) 346-1963 WEB:www.crystalsandsonsiestakey.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6300 Midnight Pass Rd. 1 & 2 BR Gulf front condos. 1 & 2 & 3 BR villas. Two heated pools, covered parking. No pets. Two week minimum, villas one week minimum off-season. ONE MONTH MINIMUM Beach Terrace Condominiums PHONE:(941) 349-7700 FAX:(941) 346-1856 E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:5400 Ocean Blvd. Beach Terrace is a beautifully maintained, luxury highrise condominium located directly on Siesta Key Beach. Heated pool, fitness room overlooking the beach, covered parking and security system make this building one of the most desirable on Siesta Key. Within easy walking distance to the village. Two month minimum for 1 & 2 bedroom ocean front or ocean view units. Siesta Harbor Assoc., Inc. PHONE:(941) 349-2949 FAX:(941) 346-1017 WEB:www.siestaharbor.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6289 Midnight Pass Rd. A mature adult community featuring 1BR/2BA & 2BR/2BA units. All units with water view, easy beach access, heated pool/spa, covered parking, cable TV, active clubhouse. No pets. Min. stay 1 month. 18 Destination Siesta Key Sarasota, FL 34231 Argus Property Management, Inc. has over 21 years of Association Management experience in the Sarasota, Venice, Englewood and Bradenton area. Included in this management portfolio are medical complexes, office complexes, single-family homes, villas and condominiums. Our phenomenal growth over the past decade is the direct result of the labors of our dedicated and conscientious staff. The Argus commitment to service has propelled Argus to a leadership role in the Gulf Coast area that others can only emulate. VACATION PROPERTIES HOMES & CONDOS Siesta 4-Rent PHONE:(941) 349-5500 (877) 482-5550 FAX:(941) 349-5527 WEB:www.siesta4rent.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6555 Midnight Pass Rd. We offer Studios - 5 BR Condos and Homes here on Beautiful Siesta Key Beach. All units fully equipped, most directly on the beach or beach access. Pets welcome at some. Call or check website above for rates. 1 week minimum. StayonSiesta.com PHONE:(941) 346-3200 (888) 437-3500 WEB:www.StayonSiesta.com A DDRESS:6604 Midnight Pass Rd Siesta Key, FL 34242 Stay on Siesta, an affiliate of Beckmann Properties, is your premiere vacation rental company on Siesta Key and the surrounding Sarasota area. Whether you desire a cozy bungalow snuggled up to the sand or an elaborate beach front home, Stay on Siesta will accommodate all of your rental needs. The quality, value, and variety of our homes are unequaled and we take great pride in making sure every aspect of your vacation, from reservation to departure, surpasses all of your expectations. Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing Where to Stay Continued Destination Siesta Key www.flvacationguides.com 19 REAL ESTATE COMPANIES Beckmann Real Estate, Inc. Re/Max Platinum Realty PHONE:(941) 929-9090 WEB:PlatinumRealtyFlorida.com A DDRESS:1312 Main St. PHONE:(941) 346-3500 (888) 437-3500 Argus Realty Group, Inc. Walter E. Hammerling, Lic. Real Estate Broker PHONE:(941) 349-0917 (941) 927-6464 FAX:(941) 927-6767 (941) 349-6156 WEB:argusrealtygroup.com A DDRESS:2477 Stickney Point Rd #118A Sarasota, FL 34231 We can have you in a new home in record time. Whether you want the beach or the mainland, Argus Realty can assist you in finding the perfect match! Our experienced agents, brokers, and managers provide a full range of realty services to assist you in every aspect of your home purchase. WEB:www.BeckmannProperties.com A DDRESS:6604 Midnight Pass Rd Siesta Key, FL 34242 Beckmann Real Estate has been selling Sarasota and Siesta Key for over 25 years. Our unique management structure provides our clients with the benefits of a sophisticated company in a boutique environment. For residential, commercial, investment or property management services, Beckmann Real Estate, Inc. is able to provide its clients with the strength, stability and diversity that today’s market commands. Sarasota, FL 34236 Serving the Greater Sarasota - Venice and Southwest Florida Marketplace Our team of dedicated Realtors are ready to make your search and purchase a world-class experience! Begin your journey with us today… Highest in Satisfaction Brad Dunaway, Realtor Remax Alliance Group PHONE:(941) 234-2785 WEB:BradDunaway.com A DDRESS:8027 Cooper Creek Blvd., #105 Sarasota, FL 34201 Brad has been successfully assisting buyers & sellers to accomplish their needs & goals for 22 years! Call today to speak with Brad about area property opportunities including investment properties and new construction. Buying or Selling We Do it All! Alliance Group Brad Dunaway Broker Associate 8027 Cooper Creek Blvd. Unit 105 Sarasota, FL 34201 (941) 234-2785 [email protected] www.braddunaway.com 20 Destination Siesta Key Platinum Realty www.PlatinumRealtyFlorida.com 941.929.9090 Real Estate Destination Siesta Key Once you have had a chance to experience the beauty of our area, you may decide it is the perfect place to live. The majority of the people who work and play here are from other parts of the country and world. condos, villas, and long-term rentals. Area realtors can help you find the perfect place vacation home or permanent residence. With so many options - on the water, on the golf course, or in a quaint neighborhood - you’ll want to contact a local realtor to help you choose which neighborhood best suits your income and lifestyle. Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing In addition to the beautiful weather, there are many other reasons for wanting to live in Siesta Key or Sarasota. For families with children, Sarasota County schools are rated among the best in Florida. Many people wanting to relocate to our area are also surprised to learn that Florida has no state income tax. Both the Siesta Key and Sarasota housing markets have a variety of housing options to choose from, including single family homes, www.flvacationguides.com 21 Area Information All telephone numbers are 941 area code unless otherwise noted.... Important Phone Numbers Religious Services Emergency (General). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 911 Coast Guard: Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 794-1261 Non-Emergency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 794-1607 Better Business Council. . . . . . . . . . . . 366-3144 Chamber of Commerce: Greater Sarasota area . . . . . . . . . . . . 955-8187 Siesta Key. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 349-3800 Licenses: Fishing, Business, Hunting & Occupational. . . . . . . . 362-9888 Marriage License Bureau. . . . . . . . . 362-4066 Public Library: Gulf Gate. . . . . . . . . . . 316-1213 Sarasota Animal Control . . . . . . . . . . . 316-1081 Sarasota/Bradenton Intl. Airport (SRQ). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 359-2770 Sarasota County Area Transit. . . . . . . . 316-1234 Sheriff ’s Office: Siesta Key. . . . . . . . . . 349-2900 Siesta Beach Facility Office . . . . . . . . . 346-3207 The Sarasota area is home to many churches and synagogues. Siesta Key is home to three churches. Destination Siesta Key Episcopal - St. Boniface Church 5615 Midnight Pass Road . . . . . . . . . . 349-5616 Presbyterian - Siesta Key Chapel 4615 Gleason Ave.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 349-1166 Pine Shores Presbyterian Church hosts a sunrise service on Easter Sunday directly on the beach. Bring your beach chairs and/or a blanket. Service begins at 6:30am. Photo credit s/b @2014 Garrity Photography-The Beach Photog 22 Catholic - St. Michael the Archangel 5394 Midnight Pass Road . . . . . . . . . . 349-4174 Destination Siesta Key Other Facts State Symbols Avg. Snowfall: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.0” Avg. Relative Humidity: . . . . . . . . . . High 83% - Low 58% Prevailing Wind: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Easterly Elevation: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sea level to 18 feet Flower: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Orange Blossom Tree: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cabbage Palm Bird: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mockingbird Average Monthly Temperatures January February March April May June July August September October November December High Low Gulf Water Rainfall 72 74 77 81 87 89 92 91 89 85 80 73 51 57 57 59 68 73 75 74 73 68 69 59 63 64 68 74 78 83 86 87 85 79 72 67 2.6” 1.5” 4.3” 1.0” 2.8” 5.0” 7.9” 5.4” 7.8” 4.5” 2.0” 1.9” Driving Time to Nearby Florida Attractions Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. 1 Hour, 20 Minutes Disney World Orlando. . . . 2 Hours, 10 Minutes Islands of Adventure Orlando. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Hours, 15 Minutes Legoland Winter Haven. . . 1 Hour, 45 Minutes www.flvacationguides.com 23 Weddings When you picture the perfect wedding, is it on the beach, with the cool sand in your toes and a beautiful sunset in the background. . . can you hear the sound of the waves lapping against the shoreline, creating a setting that is both tranquil and romantic? Perhaps your ideal location is a courtyard setting, with a gentle breeze adding to the splendor of the day or in a penthouse suite overlooking the shoreline. or a notary public. Please contact the Sarasota County Clerk’s office at 941-861-7400 or go to www.sarasotaclerk.com for information on obtaining a Florida wedding license. Area professionals including photographers, caterers, and florists, are ready to help you plan your special day. Whether you are looking for a small romantic event, or if you want to invite all of your family and friends, Siesta Key is the perfect setting for your special day. Wedding ceremonies can be performed on the public beach, privately at an area accommodation, or in a number of other settings. Ceremonies can be performed by clergy For help with your wedding please call the following trusted professionals: Sarasota Surf & Racquet Club. . (941) 349-2200 www.sarasotasurf.com Key Sailing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (941) 346-7245 www.siestakeysailing.com 24 Destination Siesta Key Photo credit s/b @2014 Garrity Photography-The Beach Photog Photo credit s/b @2014 Garrity Photography-The Beach Photog Moments in Time Photography.(941) 362-4567 www.sarasotaphotos.com Destination Siesta Key MOMENTS IN TIME photography Be a St ch ar at ting Po r $ tra 49 9 its 5 W e St dd ar i at ting ng $ Pk 49 gs 95 941-362-4567 • 6616 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, FL 34231 Evan Hair Studio 6620 Gateway Ave Sarasota, FL 34239 Phone: 941.922.7303 Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing Stylist: Jana Madden Cell: 941.320.8552 Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing Stylist: Evan Nguyen Cell: 941.350.3423 www.flvacationguides.com 25 Siesta Key History Siesta Key was a sleepy, virtually uninhabited barrier island off the coast of Sarasota until early in the 20th century. In fact, the island wasn’t even called Siesta Key then. It was variously known as Clam Island, Little Sarasota Island, or Sarasota Key and was hardly a tourist destination. A few area families had built beach homes on the island and a handful of particularly hardy individuals even lived here year ‘round. Most residents were fishermen and their families, although a few orange groves had been planted on the Key and one enterprising entrepreneur had opened a fertilizer plant here as early as 1848. Siesta Key in those days had all of the traits lush tropical sands were known for: dense vegetation and even denser mosquito swarms, snakes of all varieties (including all of the poisonous ones found in the United States - rattlesnakes, copperheads, water moccasins and coral snakes), sand fleas, mean wildcats and even meaner wild boars. The Key was not connected to the mainland and everything was transported across Sarasota Bay by boat. All of this began to change very shortly after the beginning of the 20th century. In 1906, Capt. Roberts and his wife turned their large boardinghouse home into a hotel. They offered accommodations to northern visitors for the winter and became famous for Mrs. Roberts’ seafood recipes. Mrs. Roberts’ cooking - especially her clam chowder - was so good that her culinary prowess brought members of the Eastern establishment to Siesta Key to stay and eat at the Roberts’ Inn (also known as the Siesta Inn). Hollywood elite, including Cecil B. DeMille, Bette Davis, Charlton Heston, Dorothy Lamour, Agnes Moorehead, Cornel Wilde and Betty Hutton, also stayed and dined at the Siesta Inn. Later artists, such as Ben Stahl and Hilton Leech were also familiar with the results of Mrs. Roberts’ recipes, even though they never had a chance to know the lady herself. The Crocker Cottage on Siesta Key Photo credit: Sarasota County History Center Harry L. Higel, C. 1902 Photo credit: Sarasota County History Center 26 Destination Siesta Key Destination Siesta Key The year after Roberts’ Hotel opened, Capt. Roberts and two partners formed the Siesta Land Company, platted Siesta Village and renamed the island Siesta Key. The most prominent member of this group was Harry Higel, a developer, and then-mayor of Sarasota. Higel actively advertised lots in Siesta Village and began making improvements to the island and its surroundings in an effort to make the Key more desirable. He dredged three canals through Siesta Village and connected them to the Bay, giving more of his lots direct access to the water. At this same time, an unrelated venture, the Bay Island Hotel, opened its doors in 1912, bringing a new level of lodging to Siesta Key. The hotel was touted as “the largest and most beautiful” on Florida’s west coast and remained in operation until the mid-1940’s when it was closed by its owner because she learned the hotel was serving alcohol and operating as an afterhours bar. The structure itself burned in 1952. Harry Higel, ever the opportunist, also built a hotel which he called Higelhurst, on Siesta Key. The hotel opened in 1914 on the shore at Big Pass at the north end of the Key. Recognizing that the poor access to the island was hindering its development, Higel ran his boat to ferry guests between his hotel and the city of Sarasota and worked tirelessly to get the Army Corp of Engineers to build a bridge to Siesta Key, which opened in 1917. Its sister bridge, connecting the southern end of the island to the mainland at Stickney Point opened in 1927. During and after the Depression, development on Siesta Key proceeded much more slowly. By the mid-1940s, the island only had a population of about 300. The island did attract artists and by 1955 there were 75 distinguished artists living on the Key. Among the resident artists were Impressionist Syd Solomon, illustrator and watercolorist Thornton Utz, and Alley Oop creator VT Hamlin. Today, Siesta Key has a population of about 24,000 and attracts approximately 350,000 visitors per year. There are wonderful restaurants, and one may still see artists holding seats at local watering holes. As for the beautiful water, warm winter days and white sand - they still remain. More photos of historic Siesta Key may be seen at Crescent Beach Grocery, located at the corner of Midnight Pass and Stickney Pt. Rd.; or at the Sarasota County History Center located at 6062 Porter Way in Sarasota (open Monday thru Saturday 10am-5pm). The ferry - Siesta Photo credit: Sarasota County History Center Picnic on north end of Siesta Key Photo credit: Sarasota County History Center www.flvacationguides.com 27 Shopping Siesta Key and Sarasota have a variety of shopping options. On the Key you will find gift shops, boutiques, and everything you need for the beach. The mainland has a number of shopping malls and other neighborhood shopping areas. Whether you want some souvenirs to take back home, or a new wardrobe - you will be sure to find it here. Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing Siesta Key has two shopping districts, one is known as Siesta Key Village, and is located on Ocean Blvd north of the Public Beach. This area has numerous boutiques, beach shops, salons, restaurants, and night clubs, along with a grocery store, hardware store and a drug store with post office. The other shopping area on Siesta Key is known as Crescent Beach shops. Located to the south of Stickney Pt. Bridge on Midnight Pass Road, you will find boutiques, gift shops, restaurants, and night clubs. This area also offers a 28 Destination Siesta Key grocery store that features a deli and large wine selection, a drug store with post office, a liquor store, and a boat rental/bait and tackle shop. Sarasota is home to numerous shopping centers and malls. Westfield Southgate Mall is on US 41, just east of the Siesta Dr. bridge. Westfield Sarasota Square Mall is on US 41, south of Stickney Pt. Rd. Another shopping favorite is St. Armands Circle, which is located west of downtown Sarasota, over the Ringling Causeway. Destination Siesta Key Rejuvenation Sanctuary The Excellence You Deserve Customized to Suit Your Needs in a Private Spa Suite BODY TREATMENTS NATuRAl SKiN CARE NATuRAl NAil CARE Swedish Massage Deep Tissue & Sports Massage Hot Stone Massage Purifying Body Wraps Exfoliating Scrubs Resurfacing Facial Treatments Natural Manicures & Pedicures featuring all natural vegan, toxin-free products By Appointment to accommodate your schedule 941.400.6337 MA #53366 www.natashacrow.com 665 S. Orange Ave., Suite 6 (10 minutes from Siesta Key in Historic Burns Court) Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing Shop in our fully stocked apothecary featuring herbs, essential oils & skin care products www.flvacationguides.com 29 1211 Old Stickney Pt. Rd. Siesta Key, FL 34242 Corner of Stickney Pt. and Midnight Pass Rd. 941-312-0472 We are conveniently located just a few steps from Crescent Beach and minutes away from anywhere on the Key. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Siesta Key’s Corner Grocery & Epicurean Oasis Fabulous Deli Sandwiches made to Order Whole Sandwich $6.99 • 1/2 Sandwich $3.49 • Wraps $7.49 Choose a meat, a cheese, dressing and any “add-ons” and condiments. Then just tell us how you like it and we will do the rest. *Each sandwich is made to order. You may call you order in for faster service. Party Trays & Platters Trays are available in two sizes: Medium (8-12 ) & Large (14-20) Fresh Fruit & Cheese Tray Meat & Cheese Tray • Hot Wings Tray Italian Antipasto Tray Pinwheel Sandwich Tray Olive & Relish Tray Prices start at $34.95 the BEACH DELI at... at Crescent Beach Grocery 1211 Old Stickney Pt. Rd., Siesta Key 34242 We Deliver to Siesta Key! www.crescentbeachgrocery.com Full Service Grocery Boar’s Head Meat & Cheese Butcher Shop Featuring Premium Meats Farm Fresh Produce • Ready to Go Meals Domestic & Micro Beers Largest Wine Selection on Siesta Key Beach Supplies • Gift Baskets Don’t Waste Your Island Time Crossing Bridges! FASHIONS GROCERS LIQUOR STORE CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Crescent Beach Grocery Siesta Spirits PHONE:(941) 349-4400 WEB:www.CBsoutfitters.com A DDRESS:1249 Stickney Point Rd. PHONE:(941) 321-0472 WEB:www.crescentbeachgrocery.com A DDRESS:1211 Old Stickney Pt. Rd. PHONE:(941) 346-BEER (2337) A DDRESS:6637 Midnight Pass Rd. Siesta Key, FL Featuring a wide variety of outdoor clothing, footwear, T-shirts, complete bait & tackle shop, sunglasses and beach gear. CB’s is one stop shopping with a personal touch. Call to reserve boat rentals or fishing charters (941) 349-4400. Open 7am - 6pm daily. Foxy Lady PHONE:(941) 349-6644 WEB:www.foxyladysarasota.com A DDRESS:209 Beach Road Siesta Key, FL As Sarasota’s fashion leader for almost 40 years, we have been dressing generation after generation of “Foxy Fashionistas”. The emphasis has and continues to be, on service, quality and selection. From our delicious shoes and exclusive selection of sportswear to our jaw dropping gowns, there isn’t a spot in the wardrobe that we don’t “cover”. Foxy Lady is committed to lead the way with exclusive merchandise, superlative customer service, and keeping you in vogue, turning heads and keeping you looking and feeling beautiful…. that’s what we do BEST!!!!! FISH MARKET Big Water Fish Market PHONE:(941) 554-8101 E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6641 Midnight Pass Rd. Siesta Key, FL “Our Fish is Delish” Big Water Fish Market is the only fresh fish market on Siesta Key - we get fresh fish in daily. In addition to fresh fish, we feature lunchtime favorites including Mad Mikes Tuna Salad Sandwich, and Siesta Shrimp Salad. Call ahead to have your lunch order ready. We also carry local spices, sauces and many breakfast items including eggs, juice and bacon. Specialty items available include Clam Bake to Go, Oyster Roast to Go, Beach Picnic Baskets, and more. Open Mon-Sat 10-6, Sun 11-4. 32 Destination Siesta Key Siesta Key, FL Siesta Key’s Corner Grocery & Epicurean Oasis, conveniently located at the corner of Midnight Pass and Stickney Pt. Rd. Food & beverages from basic to gourmet, delicatessen & quality meats, deli salads & sandwiches, premium wines & microbeers, party trays & platters, deluxe ready-to-go meals, premium cigars, Florida lottery - ATM, farm fresh produce. We deliver! Join us for monthly wine tastings - call for details! JEWELER Created Gems in Gold and Silver PHONE:(941) 346-0988 WEB:siestakeygems.com A DDRESS:5212 Ocean Blvd. (next to Big Olaf’s) Siesta Key Village “Big Bling for Little Ching” Created Gems in Gold and Silver is the jewel of Siesta Key Village and the favorite store among tourists and locals alike. As a custom-design jeweler, owner Mark Edwards, has worked with a laboratory to create a new type of affordable man-made permanent diamond gemstone - the Spektralyte diamond. As a jeweler who dealt with fine diamonds, Mark wanted to create a way to match high-style with affordability. Spektrayte diamond simulants are all d-flawless lab-created gemstones with all the permanent specifications of a fine quality diamond matching it’s cut,clarity, faceting and longevity. Unlike a temporary cubic zirconia (cz), Spektralyte diamond gemstones all have lifetime guarantees and are regarded as the only permanent lab-created diamond that requires a carbon test to distinguish them from a natural stone. At Created Gems there are hundreds of designs in rings, bracelets, earrings, slides, all in 14kt. gold or platinum finished sterling silver, all gorgeous and all discounted, as well as nautical charms, all guaranteed with the best prices. Siesta Key, FL Siesta Key’s only full service liquor, beer, wine & cigar store. Located south of Stickney Pt. Rd. in Crescent Plaza (just past 7-11) Located south of Stickney Pt. Rd. in Crescent Plaza )just past 7-11. We deliver! PHOTOGRAPHERS Moments in Time Photography PHONE:(941) 362-4567 WEB:www.sarasotaphotos.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6616 Gateway Ave. Sarasota, FL 34231 Wedding/Special Events/Portrait Photography Our experienced photographers pride themselves on providing professional, personalized service to assure that your most treasured memories are preserved forever. We have personalized packages to accommodate all of your photography needs. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words. Exclusive Distributor of Spektral yte Diamonds ® Spektral yte From our Platinum Plus Silver Collection ing for “Big bl ng” hi little C Flip-Flops Sale $12.50 ea Necklace with chain Sale $19.95 ea Siesta Key Bracelet Necklace with chain Sale $19.95 ea Opal reg. $80 Sale $56 Turquoise reg. $90 Sale $63 FREE SIESTA KEY BRACELET with purchase Created&Gems 5212 Ocean Blvd. (next to Big Olaf ’s) Siesta Key Village 941.346.0988 • www.SiestaKeyGems.com Area Recreation If you like to spend time in the outdoors, there is an abundance of things to do on and off the Key to keep you active. In addition to walking the beach, and biking, there is boating, fishing, parasailing, jet skiing, golf, and tennis. Tennis Fishing When making your room reservations, you will find that many of the accommodations have their own tennis courts. The Siesta Key Public Beach also has lighted tennis courts that are free to the public. If your idea of a perfect vacation includes fishing, then Siesta Key is the spot for you. Whether you want to fish in the bay or the Gulf, from a pier or in a boat, the fishing holes are as varied as the type of fish you will catch. A fishing license is required for saltwater or freshwater fishing, and can be purchased at any sporting goods store. Biking Golf With its mild year-round climate, and abundance of area golf courses, Sarasota is the perfect place to take in a round of golf. The courses are beautifully manicured, and provide a sanctuary for native wildlife. No matter what your skill level or handicap, you will find our local golf courses to be both challenging and fun. Sarasota, along with neighboring Bradenton, boasts a number of public, semi-private and private golf courses. Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing Bicycle riding is a great mode of transportation on and around Siesta Key. Bicycle rentals are available at several locations on Siesta Key. Please check our listings under Beach Rentals. If you are feeling adventurous, The Legacy Trail is more than 10 miles in length and offers several areas to stop and rest along the way. To locate trailheads in south Sarasota County, please refer to www.scgov.net for further information. 34 Destination Siesta Key One of the top 100 courses in Florida and one of the top three in Sarasota! When course designer Mark Alden created the Serenoa Golf Club project, he took the short, 6,333yard layout and made it play more like 7,200 by bringing water into play on every single hole and creating a true shot-maker`s course! Forget the usual tee-shot between two bunkers to a slightly elevated green guarded by two bunkers of your typical Sarasota course and welcome the variety and stiff challenge of Serenoa Golf Club. Serenoa Golf Club offers all incluSive gOlF every day at no additional charge. It’s our way of saying thank you, We understand what is important to you! Value and a Quality Golf Experience! We include complimentary Breakfast, lunch and two draft beers or fountain drinks with every round. Your choices of food and beer will far exceed your expectations and our friendly staff guarantees a day of fun. Book Your Tee Time at 941-925-2755 or online at www.serenoagc.com Serenoa golf club is Siesta Key’s closest Public golf course! 6773 Serenoa Drive Sarasota, Fl 34241 941-925-2755 BEACH RENTALS CHARTER BOATS Siesta Key Bike & Kayak Kathleen D Sailing PHONE:(941) 346-8091 WEB:www.SiestaKeyBikeandKayak.com E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:1224 Old Stickney Point Rd. PHONE:(941) 870-4349 WEB:www.KathleenD.net A DDRESS:2 Marina Plaza Siesta Key, FL Sarasota, FL 34236 BOAT RENTALS Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans provide comfort, style, safety and experience. Our catamarans provide a flat, stable, easy ride. No hanging on, no leaning and no getting wet. Each boat is equipped with full size bathrooms and are USCG certified and inspected. Our Captains hold USCG Master Licenses and have years of sailing experience. Departing from Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key and Marina Jack in Downtown Sarasota, we offer flexible schedules for your convenience. CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Key Sailing PHONE:(941) 349-4400 WEB:www.CBsoutfitters.com A DDRESS:1249 Stickney Point Rd. PHONE:(941) 346-SAIL (7245) WEB:www.siestakeysailing.com EMAIL:[email protected] We offer bike rentals, kayak rentals, scooter rentals, scooter car rentals, eco-tours and beach & baby rentals. Family owned and operated, offering quality equipment and a friendly reliable expert staff. Free delivery on Siesta Key. Siesta Key, FL CB’s Saltwater Outfitters has been a Sarasota institution and a leader in the sportfishing community since 1959. Located on beautiful Siesta Key it offers exciting opportunities for anglers of all levels. CB’s is an Orvis Endorsed Fly-fishing Outfitter. Charter fish with an experienced guide or RENT a BOAT of your choice to tour and/or fish Sarasota’s scenic intracoastal waterways. Featuring a wide variety of outdoor clothing, footwear, T-shirts, complete bait & tackle shop, sunglasses and beach gear. CB’s is one stop shopping with a personal touch. Call to reserve boat rentals or fishing charters (941) 349-4400. Open 7am - 6pm daily. Come alone or with the family reunion/ birthday wedding to YOUR yacht with attention to every detail. Sarasota’s most affordable, customized charter/Voted #1 with multiple awards. Marina Jack’s only official educational sailing vessel by Sarasota County proclamation. Day in the city named after U.S. Coast Guard Master Capt. Tim Solomon. Pose with the key to the city on board. Bay front veteran’s park named in honor of Jan’s father, Chaplain Hamel. Let us show you our hometown! GOLF COURSES Serenoa Golf Club PHONE:925-2755 WEB:www.serenoagc.com A DDRESS:6773 Serenoa Dr. Sarasota, FL 34241 Enjoy a round of golf at one of the top 100 courses in Florida, and one of the top three in Sarasota! Serenoa Golf Club is Siesta Key’s closest public golf course. Located east of I-75, the course is a 20 minute drive. Book your tee time at 941-925-2755 or online at www.serenoagc.com 36 Destination Siesta Key JET SKI RENTALS/ PARASAILING Siesta Key Watersports PHONE:941-921-3030 WEB:www.siestakeywatersports. com A DDRESS:1536 Stickney Pt. Rd. Sarasota, FL Parasailing with Siesta Key Watersports will be the “highlight” of your trip. We utilize the newest technology systems to provide a safe, soft, controlled parasailing experience. Our captains are US Coast Guard certified and have years of parasailing experience. Reservations suggested. Our jet skis accommodate 1-3 people, and include gas, life-jackets and wet suits. We offer 1, 2, 3, 4 hour and all day rentals. See lots of marine and wildlife. Pelicans, ospreys and a large variety of gulls and terns fly about. Bottle nose dolphin and manatees are often spotted! We accept Visa, MasterCard, Travelers Checks and Cash. Photos and T-shirts available. KAYAK TOURS & RENTALS Siesta Paddle Sports PHONE:(941) 404-4624 WEB:www.siestapaddlesports.com EMAIL:[email protected] Located in Sarasota, Florida and Siesta Key we offer kayak tours, kayak rentals, paddle-board tours, paddle-board rentals and surf lessons. Our knowledgeable guides will show you the local ecology from the neighboring Dolphins and Manatee to the Birds, Mangroves, Beaches and Sandbars. Our guides know the patterns and locations of the local marine life and strive to share this experience with you. We offer an amazing experience and we pride ourselves not only in showing you the local ecology, but also an unforgettable trip. We’ve selected the most comfortable kayaks and gear available for your excursion. Comfort and safety are a priority. So what are You waiting for? Immerse yourself into the best of what Siesta Key has to offer. Space is limited and reservations are highly recommended. Call today to book your next adventure! BOAT RENTALS FISHING CHARTERS Complete Tackle Shop • Sportswear Orvis® Endorsed Outfitter CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 1249 Stickney Point Rd. Siesta Key (941) 349-4400 $ MMMMM View From The Top! KEY SAILING 941-346-SAIL www.siestakeysailing.com “Fresh Air, Fine Chocolates, and a few hours of Peace on Earth." www.CBsOutfitters.com Open 7am to 6pm daily 15 OFF BOAT RENTALS w/COuPON ExP. 12/20/14 doLphIn wAtch • sunset sAILs • dAy sAILs Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans ! ing Let’s Go Sail With Tim and Jan Sailing Sarasota Together Since 1973 WINNEr: National Tourism Week, Excellence in Guest Services International Business of the Year, Sarasota Woman Entrepreneurial Excellence, Sarasota Siesta Key Business Person of the Year Winner: YOU, for choosing the Key Sailing experience! Sailing From 3 Locations Downtown Sarasota Longboat Key • Anna Maria Island Up to 20 Passengers! sheLLIng • snorKeLIng • prIvAte chArters 941-870-4349 • www.KathleenD.net www.flvacationguides.com 37 DINING The Beach Deli at Crescent Beach Grocery PHONE:(941) 312-0472 FAX:(941) 312-9588 WEB:www.crescentbeachgrocery.com A DDRESS:1211 Old Stickney Pt. Rd. Siesta Key, FL The Beach Deli is your source for great food such as freshly made-to-order sandwiches, chef-made salads and ready to-go meals. We only serve the highest quality lunch meats and cheeses and our staff will gladly prepare one of our signature sandwiches or one of your own creations. Our deli case is stacked with slabs of slow cooked ribs, meat loaf, cooked chickens, crab cakes, twice-baked potatoes and freshly baked bagels and muffins. A steak or chop from our meat case, paired with one of our salads, will provide a sunset barbecue you will remember. Big Water Fish Market PHONE:(941) 554-8101 E-MAIL:[email protected] A DDRESS:6641 Midnight Pass Rd. Siesta Key, FL “Our Fish is Delish” Big Water Fish Market is the only fresh fish market on Siesta Key - we get fresh fish in daily. In addition to fresh fish, we feature lunchtime favorites including Mad Mikes Tuna Salad Sandwich, and Siesta Shrimp Salad. Call ahead to have your lunch order ready. We also carry local spices, sauces and many breakfast items including eggs, juice and bacon. Specialty items available include Clam Bake to Go, Oyster Roast to Go, Beach Picnic Baskets, and more. Open Mon-Sat 10-6, Sun 11-4. Clayton’s Siesta Grille PHONE:(941) 349-2800 WEB:www.claytonssiestagrille.com A DDRESS:1256 Old Stickney Pt Rd. Siesta Key, FL A nice place to relax and enjoy great food. Clayton’s Siesta Grille offers island casual with a touch of Mediterranean fiery elegance. Indoor and outdoor dining, fresh seafood, a friendly bar with a daily happy hour. Der Dutchman Restaurant PHONE:941) 955-8007 A DDRESS:3713 Bahia Vista St. Sarasota, FL 34232 Amish Kitchen Cooking. At Der Dutchman restaurant it’s really pretty simple. We take the basics and make them extraordinary. From our broasted chicken and tender roast beef to our warm homemade bread, real mashed potatoes, and home-style noodles and dressing, everything is made to perfection. Our fresh salad bar is always full of your garden favorites. Our own in-house bakery will never disappoint your sweet tooth with our wide assortment of pies and pastries baked fresh daily. So what’s so simple about all this? It’s simply delicious and simply a great value. Javier’s Restaurant & Wine Bar PHONE:(941) 349-1792 WEB:www.javiersrestaurant.com A DDRESS:6621 Midnight Pass Road - Crescent Plaza Siesta Key, FL A charming, unique restaurant re-creating a Peruvian village cafe in the Andes Mountains. Lush, plant filled dining room featuring Peruvian art, crafts and tapestries. Cozy wine bar with excellent South American and New World wines and imported Peruvian beers. The combination of creative Peruvian preparations or classic American favorites assure something for everyone’s taste. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 pm. Reservations always appreciated. The Lobster Pot PHONE:(941) 349-2323 WEB:www.sarasota-lobsterpot.com A DDRESS:5157 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Key, FL Located on Siesta Key, we bring you the finest tastes of New England. Enjoy a delightful dining experience in our main dining room or our patio. Open Monday thru Saturday from 11:30am. Old Salty Dog PHONE:(941) 349-0158 WEB:www.theoldsaltydog.com A DDRESS:5023 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Key, FL Serving Sarasota for over 20 years, the Old Salty Dog mixes the best of the Florida Keys with our British heritage to create a fun family environment. Menu items include appetizers, burgers, fries and traditional English fish and chips. Try our famous “Salty Dog” - a 1/4 lb. hot dog dipped in beer batter and deep fried - delicious! Bring your laptopy - we are a wi-fi hot spot. Open 7 days a week from 11am. Ophelia’s on the Bay PHONE:(941) 349-2212 WEB:www.opheliasonsiestakey.com A DDRESS:9105 Midnight Pass Rd. Siesta Key, FL Sarasota’s premier waterside restaurant featuring casual fine dining inside our glass walled dining rooms or on our dockside patio. We offer dinner from 5 until 10 every night as well as a Sunday champagne buffet brunch from 11 to 2. Don’t forget to try our Happy Hour in the bar/lounge, 7 nights a week from 5 to 6, featuring $5 Martinis, $4 House Wine, and Appetizers from $5 to $7! Our menu changes nightly as we only use the freshest seafood and meats as well as local produce. Our chef bakes all of our desserts in house. We offer an extensive wine list as well as a full bar. Reservations are suggested at 941-349-2212 or on www.Opentable.com. Our web site is www.OpheliasonSiestaKey.com. Turtles Restaurant PHONE:(941) 346-2207 WEB:www.turtlesrestaurant.com A DDRESS:8875 Midnight Pass Rd. Siesta Key, FL Good food in a charming atmosphere overlooking little Sarasota Bay. Indoor and outdoor dining, along with seasonal entertainment. Offering only the freshest seafood and other fine cuisine at reasonable prices in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Open daily, happy hour served 3:30-7pm. Village Cafe PHONE:(941) 349-2822 WEB:www.villagecafeonsiesta.com A DDRESS:5133 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Key, FL Nestled in the heart of Siesta Key Village, our menu offers only the finest selection of breakfast and lunch specialties anywhere on the Florida Gulf Coast. Dine inside or outside on our open air patio. Open 7am-2:30pm daily. Call ahead for carryout. 38 Destination Siesta Key New England Cape Cod Style Seafood Lobsterrific! 5157 Ocean Blvd. In the Heart of Siesta Key Village Bakery, Carry-out, Catering and Gifts 3713 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota 941-955-8007 derdutchman.com HOURS Mon-Thur, 6am to 8pm Mon.-Thurs. 11am-9pm Fri. & Sat. 11am - 9:30pm Sun: Seasonal Call for Hours 941-349-2323 Complimentary Valet Thurs.-Sun. Fri & Sat, 6am to 9pm – Closed Sunday www.sarasotalobsterpot.com Dinner nightly 5 - 10 p.m. Sunday Jazz Brunch Buffet 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Happy Hour in the Bar/Lounge Nightly 5 - 6 p.m. Available for special events. Ophelia’s on the Bay Siesta Key’s Premier Waterfront Dining 9105 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key, FL 34242 941.349.2212 OpheliasOnThe Bay.net • facebook.com/OpheliasOnTheBayFL www.flvacationguides.com 39 Area Attractions Oscar Scherer State Park Oscar Scherer State Park is a state park in neighboring Osprey, that provides a taste of Florida’s natural habitat. Bald Eagles nest here in winter and are commonly seen; however the park is known as the best place to see the Florida scrub-jay, a threatened species found only in Florida. The park provides fifteen miles of trails for hiking and bicycling. Canoeists and kayakers can paddle along South Creek, a tidal blackwater stream, which flows to a nearby bay. Freshwater and saltwater fishing are both available in the park, along with a swimming hole at Lake Osprey. Picnic areas are equipped with grills. The Lester Finley Barrier Free Nature Trail is accessible to those with sight, hearing or mobility impairments. There is also a wheelchair accessible fishing dock, butterfly observation area and drinking fountain. Oscar Scherer State Park has 104 campsites which include a picnic table, grill/canpfire ring, electric hookup, and water hook-up. The campground also has five restrooms with hot water showers, sinks and toilet facilities. Registered campers also have use of coin washers and dryers. 40 Destination Siesta Key Hours: 8am until sunset, 365 days a year Prices: $5 admission fee per vehicle, $2 per person pedestrians and bicyclists. Overnight camping is $26 for RV/trailer or tent. Reservations must be made at least one day in advance and can be made thru their website at http://floridastateparks.reserveamerica.com Oscar Scherer State Park 941-483-5956 www.FloridaStateParks.org/OscarScherer 1843 S. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL 34229 Destination Siesta Key The Legacy Trail The Legacy Trail is the largest public recreation project ever constructed in Sarasota County. Totaling more than 10 miles in length the trail runs from just south of the city of Sarasota to Venice following the former CSX railroad corridor. The trail is open to walkers, joggers, cyclists and roller bladers. The Legacy Trail offers several areas to stop, rest and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Trailheads/Rest stops offer access points with parking. Trailheads are located at: Osprey Junction Trailhead 939 E. Bay Street, Osprey Oscar Scherer State Park, 1843 South Tamiami Trail, Osprey Laurel Park, 509 Collins Road, Laurel Nokomis Community Park, 234 Nippino Trail East, Nokomis Patriots Park, 800 Venetia Bay Blvd, Venice Venice Train Depot, 303 East Venice Ave., Venice Culverhouse Nature Park 7301 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota Additionally, users will find rest stations every mile that have places to sit and relax. Hours: dusk until dawn, 365 days a year. Motorized vehicles are prohibited. www.flvacationguides.com 41 Area Attractions Continued Myakka River State Park The “Florida Wild and Scenic” Myakka River flows through 57 square miles of wetlands, prairies, hammocks and pinelands producing one of Florida’s largest and most diverse natural areas. The river and its two shallow lakes attract a myriad of wetland creatures making birding, canoeing, fishing, camping and wildlife observation popular activities. A 7-mile scenic drive winds through shady oak-palm hammocks and along the shore of the Upper Lake. Over 39 miles of hiking trails and many miles of dirt roads provide access to the remote interior that includes large expanses of globally-imperiled Florida dry prairie. Myakka River State Park is located 9 miles east of Sarasota on S.R. 72. Birding Tours With nearly 100 species of birds listed as common or abundant on the park bird list, Myakka is a great place for birding. The park features shallow lakes and wetlands that are home to eagles and osprey, along with wading and migrating birds. Hop aboard one of the world’s two largest airboats, the “ Myakka Maiden,” or the “Gator Gal” for a scenic cruise. These air-powered vessels go into shallow, grassy areas where traditional crafts are not able to go. The ride is so smooth you’ll have no problem taking photos to bring home. Another way to experience the backcounty of Myakka River State Park is on the “ Tram Safari”. Pass through shady hammocks and grassy marshes on this 7-mile drive. Bicyclying There are seven miles of paved road and more than twenty miles of dirt roads for cyclist to explore. Bicycle rentals are available at the park concessionaire. 42 Destination Siesta Key Destination Siesta Key Canoes and Kyaks Bring your own canoe or kayak, or rent from Myakka River Outpost. A boat ramp on the Upper Myakka Lake provides access to the river and both lakes. Additional canoe launch locations are at picnic areas along the main drive. Hiking/Nature Trail Myakka has over 39 miles of trails to explore, including a walkway through the treetops and a 74-foot tower that provides an amazing view. Trails are easily accessible and are a great way to explore the back woods. Fishing Fishing is a great past-time at the park. The Myakka State Park provides an ADA accessible fishing pier that is easily wheelchair accessible. Historic Log Cabins Stay the night in a log cabin at one of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1934 and 1941, each of the historic palm log cabins includes a bathroom with shower, fully equipped kitchen and a large common room that sleeps up to six guests. A porch and fireplace add to the charm of these historic cabins. Linens, light thermal blankets, kitchen utensils, coffee pot and microwave oven are provided. Reservations may be made at ReserveAmerica.com, or by calling (800) 326-3521. Pets are not permitted in cabins. Camping The park features three campgrounds with 90 campsites. Each site is equipped with a 50 amp electrical service, water, a fire ring and picnic table. Laundry facilities and restroom facilities with hot showers are also available. Hours: 8am until sundown, 365 days a year Prices: $6 admission fee per vehicle, $4 single occupant vehicle, $2 per person pedestrians and bicyclists Overnight camping is $26 for RV/trailer or tent. Reservations must be made at least one day in advance and can be made thru their website at http://floridastateparks.reserveamerica.com Myakka River State Park 941-361-6511 www.floridastateparks.org/myakkariver 13208 State Road 72 Sarasota, FL 34241 www.flvacationguides.com 43 Area Attractions Continued The Ringling The Ringling was established in 1927 as the legacy of John Ringling and his wife, Mable. The Ringling estate is home to the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the State Art Museum of Florida; Circus Museum; Ca’ d’Zan; Historic Asolo Theater; and Bayfront Gardens. The Museum of Art galleries boast a worldrenowned collection of old masters including masterpieces by Rubens, Van Dyck and Velazquez, plus Asian, Cypriot, modern and contemporary art. Ca’ d’Zan (“House of John”), John and Mable’s waterfront home is a Venetian-style mansion. Ca’ d’Zan sits on Sarasota Bay and is adorned with furnishings from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. The Circus Museum displays the world’s largest miniature circus (Howard Bros. Circus Model), posters, parade wagons, interactive galleries, and the Wisconsin, John & Mable’s private rail car. The Bayfront Gardens span 66 acres, and includes Mable’s Rose Garden, the Dwarf Garden, Secret Garden, Millennium Tree Trail, and a newly installed Playspace. The Historic Asolo Theater was created in Asolo, Italy in 1798, brought to Sarasota in the early 1950s. The theater is one of the most beloved objects in The Ringling collection. Hours: Open daily 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Thursdays until 8:00 pm; Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year’s days Ticket Prices: $25 Adults; $20 Seniors (65+); $10 Active US Military; $5 Children 6-17 and College Students w/ID Discounted Museum admission available Thursdays 5:00 - 8:00 pm. The Ringling 941-359-5700 www.ringling.org 5401 Bay Shore Road View of the Ca d’Zan mansion from Sarasota Bay. Photos Courtesy of The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the State Art Museum of Florida Museum of Art 44 Destination Siesta Key Destination Siesta Key Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Experience nature where fun is in full bloom! The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a notfor-profit institution fostering understanding and appreciation of tropical plants, especially epiphytes (plants that grow on other plants), through programs of research, conservation, education and display. Selby Gardens is perhaps best known for its living collection of more than 6,000 orchids. The 9.5-acre bayfront property is an open-air and under-glass museum of more than 20,000 colorful plants, many collected in the wild on more than 150 scientific expeditions to tropical rain forests by Selby Gardens research staff. The stunning Tropical Display House with its lush rain forest atmosphere displays unusual flora that can be seen all year around. It is one of eight greenhouses that house collections used for scientific research and plant identification. Throughout the grounds of the historic Selby estate you will find many distinct gardens; towering Bamboo and Banyan Groves, Cactus and Succulent Garden, and Cycad Collection as well as trees filled with orchids, bromeliads, and other epiphytic plants. Also on the grounds is the former Christy Payne Mansion, a unique example of eclectic Southern Colonial architecture. The Mansion, on the National Register of Historic Places, is home to ever-changing botanical art and photography exhibits. Children will delight in our brilliant dart frog collection, the koi pond, and our gardens abundant with tropical flora and fauna. Hours: 10am-5pm daily (closed Christmas day). Gardens closed at 3pm on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and New Year’s Eve. Ticket prices: $19 Adults, $6 ages 4-11, Children 3 and under Free Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 941-366-5731 www.Selby.org 811 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota www.flvacationguides.com 45 Area Attractions Continued Sarasota Jungle Gardens “A Tropical Adventure” The area’s only ZOO’logical gardens! Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing Sarasota Jungle Gardens is a family-oriented attraction that is located on 10 acres of lush tropical foliage. Along its winding trails you will find over three thousand species of native and exotic plants. There is a variety of birds, reptiles and other mammals that make their home in Sarasota Jungle Gardens, with 85% of the animals having been donated or rescued. The park features daily shows including “Birds of Prey & Critters & Things”, “Reptile Encounter”, and “Birds of the Rainforest”. The shows are both educational and entertaining. At Jungle Gardens you can get your picture taken with an Alligator, or have a “free roaming” American Flamingo eating out of the palm of your hand. There is a “Kiddie Jungle” play ground, along with a Cafe that serves sandwiches, ice cream and snacks. 46 Destination Siesta Key Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm Closed Christmas and Thanksgiving Day Ticket Prices: $15 Adults, $14 Seniors (60+), $10 Children (3-12), children 2 and under Free Sarasota Jungle Gardens 941-355-5305 www.sarasotajunglegardens.com 3071 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota 34234 Destination Siesta Key Historic Spanish Point Explore 5,000 years of history through prehistoric Indian mounds, pioneer era buildings and the colorful gardens of Mrs. Potter Palmer located on the shores of Little Sarasota Bay. A Butterfly Garden, nature trails, exhibits, picnic facilities and a Museum Store are also part of your experience. As part of the history of Spanish Point, prehistoric people occupied the site as early as 3,000 BC and lived along the shoreline for nearly 4,000 years. Shell middens and burial mounds left by them make up one of the largest intact prehistoric sites along Florida’s west coast. Another part of the history at Spanish Point includes that of the John Webb family, who moved here from New York in 1867 to establish a homestead. A trader the family met in Key West told them of the elevated point of land in Sarasota. The family named it Spanish Point to honor him. Along with crops and a packing house, the Webbs encouraged winter boarders to come stay with them. These boarders enjoyed the climate, beaches, fishing and other leisure activites of the day. Thus the first tourist resort in the area was established. In 1910, Chicago socialite Mrs. Potter Palmer came to Sarasota to establish a winter estate. She purchased thousands of acres for cattle ranching, citrus groves, and real estate development. The Webb homestead was part of the land she chose for her 350-acre estate which she named “Osprey Point”. She preserved the pioneer buildings and connected them with lavish formal gardens and lawns. Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9am-5pm, Sun. 12pm-5pm Ticket prices: $12 Adults & Teens, $10 Seniors (65+) $5 Guests Accompanying Members $5 ages 5-12, Children under 5 Free Historic Spanish Point 941-966-5214 www.historicspanishpoint.org 337 North Tamiami Trail Osprey FL 34229 www.flvacationguides.com 47 Area Attractions Continued Mote Aquarium A must-do for any Sarasota visitor, and a local favorite, is Mote Aquarium, located on City Island just north of St. Armands Circle. Focusing on the estuarine and marine animals of Southwest Florida, at Mote you can explore the secrets of the sea with touch pools, shark, dolphin, manatee and sea turtle exhibits and over 100 other species of marine life. This unique attraction offers viewable working labs and high-tech interactive exhibits showcasing the world-renowned research of Mote Marine Laboratory. Aquarium visitors can learn about the ocean’s top predators and shark research at Mote’s Shark Zone with a 135,000 gallon shark habitat, Shark Attack sensory theater and the interactive SharkTracker exhibit. At SharkTracker, visitors take on the role of scientists and learn how sharks are tracked in the wild. Highlights of the facility include Contact Cove, where horseshoe crab, sea urchins, sea stars, rays and other animals are all within reach. 48 Destination Siesta Key Learn more about beautiful and exotic seahorses at The Seahorse Conservation Laboratory, our breeding facility that shares offspring with more than 20 AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums nationwide. You will also find a variety of both fresh and saltwater fish that inhabit our waterways. Be sure to visit manatees Hugh and Buffett, explore sea turtle exhibits and meet resident dolphin, Moonshine. Learn what you can do to help protect threatened and endangered wildlife. Hours: 10am-5pm, including all holidays. Ticket prices: $19.75 Adults (13+), $18.75 Seniors (65+), $14.75 ages 4-12, Children 3 and under Free Mote Aquarium 941-388-4441 www.mote.org 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota Destination Siesta Key South Florida Museum, Bishop Planetarium and Parker Manatee Aquarium Southwest Florida’s largest natural and cultural history museum, interpreting this region from the Pleistocene to the present. The South Florida Museum features fossil evidence of Florida’s earliest marine and mammal inhabitants and archaeological material representing paleoindian, archaic and precontact cultures. Included in the collection is the world renowned Montague Tallent collection of prehistoric artifacts. In addition you will find decorative arts, textiles, ethnography, minerals, modern shells and more. The Museum’s extensive open storage system makes objects from the collections visually accessible to the public. The Bishop Planetarium is a state-of-thescience, all digital full dome theater, featuring a wide variety of astronomy-related presentations, thrilling sound and light shows and specialized wide screen, large format programs. Find living history at the museum’s Parker Manatee Aquarium, home of Snooty™, the old- est living manatee born and nurtured in a manmade, protected environment. We are a unique and dynamic family learning experience! Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-5pm, Sun. 12pm-5pm. Closed Monday May-December. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day, March 3, Nov. 1 Ticket prices: $18 Adults, $16 Seniors ((65+), $14 ages 4-12, Under 4 free South Florida Museum Bishop Planetarium and Parker Manatee Aquarium 941-746-4131 www.southfloridamuseum.org 201 10th Street West, Bradenton www.flvacationguides.com 49 Area Events Farmer’s Market Palm Avenue’s First Friday Walks Saturday downtown Sarasota, 7am-1pm The Farmer’s Market offers locally grown, and organic produce in addition to a unique variety of vendors. Shop for plants, pasta, unique gifts and more. First Fridays of every month from 6-9pm Palm Avenue, Sarasota Enjoy a stroll through the galleries of Palm Avenue on the first Friday of every month. In addition to fine galleries, this area along lower Main Street is known for its unique variety of shops and restaurants. Siesta Key Farmer’s Market Sunday from 9am-2pm in the village in Davidson Drugs parking lot, 5124 Ocean Blvd. www.siestafarmersmarket.com The Siesta Key Farmers Market offers delicious spring greens, herbs, and a variety of produce. Shoppers can also find a vast assortment of local products and restaurants serving farm fresh items from their menus. Siesta Fiesta 50 Destination Siesta Key Photo credit s/b @2014 Garrity Photography-The Beach Photog Photo credit s/b @2014 Garrity Photography-The Beach Photog April 13-14, 2014, 10am-5pm Siesta Fiesta is an arts and craft festival located in the Village of Siesta Key. Enjoy the sounds of local musicians while shopping at the hundreds of booths and displays lining the main street of the village. Siesta Fiesta features hundreds of artisans, craftsmen, jewelry makers, sculptors, and more in this juried show. Along with the beautiful arts and crafts, you will find music, food and fun. Destination Siesta Key Florida Winefest & Auction Feb 23 - March 1, 2014 The Jazz Club of Sarasota holds a yearly festival with a variety of well known talent. The festival kicks off with a free concert at Phillippi Estate Park from 1-4 pm. The festival features various artists performing throughout the week at the Players Theatre. Other events include a Jazz Trolley to transport fans to local night spots. For more information, please contact www.jazzclubsarasota.com April 10-13, 2014 www.floridawinefest.org 941-952-1109 800-216-6199 The Florida Winefest & Auction is a celebration of fine wine and food and has been recognized as one of the largest events of its kind in the US. It has also been recognized as one of the top charity wine events of its kind in the Southeast U.S., serving various local charities in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. Vintners and winemakers from around the world collaborate with the finest chefs to create dinners, tastings and educational food and wine seminars. Please contact Florida Winefest & Auction at www.floridawinefest.com for more information. Siesta Key Drum Circle Photo credit s/b @2014 Garrity Photography-The Beach Photog Feel the beat of the drums Sundays evenings, beginning about an hour before sundown. Instruments ranging from drums, flutes, guitars, shakers and cowbells create the circle. Be part of the audience, or participate with music and dance. Located south of the public beach pavillion - just follow the music! Photo credit s/b @2014 Garrity Photography -The Beach Photog Sarasota Jazz Festival www.flvacationguides.com 51 Area Events Continued Suncoast Offshore Sarasota is home to the longest running powerboat race site in history. Week-long events include a Golf Tournament, Kickoff Party, “Friendliest Catch” Fishing Tournament, Car Show, “Fun Run”, Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament, Festival Parade of Boats, and a Downtown Block Party, among other fun and exciting activities. The race itself, the Annual Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Boat Race is on Sunday, July 7th, with heats at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., although race times are subject to change. The best area for viewing is at Lido Beach. The powerboats compete right offshore, and the race itself is an awesome sight. These magnificent powerboats are guided by helicopters - adding to the excitement both on water and in the air. Pick your team and become part of the excitement. Photo Credit J. Meric Suncoast Offshore June 28th – July 6th, 2014 SuncoastOffshore.org 52 Destination Siesta Key The Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sandsculpting Competition Boasting the “World’s Finest, Whitest Sand”, Siesta Key is home to the Crystal Classic Sandsculpting Competition. The competition is a 4-day even that highlights the works of the most talented sandsculptors in the area. Competitors spray water on the sand sculptures to keep the sand moist. They also use putty knives, feather dusters and even Elmer’s Glue to create the 10 foot high structures. Sculptures can be viewed free from the beach, but to get up close, there is a small fee, $5 per person, under 4 free. Siesta Key Crystal Classic November, 2014 www.Crystalsand.org Destination Siesta Key Sarasota Film Festival Sarasota Chalk Festival The Sarasota Film Festival is a 10-day celebration of film showcasing new, international, domestic, independent and studio films. The festival also brings in celebrated actors, many of whom not only attend Q & A sessions following screenings, but also participate in the festival’s “In-Conversation With” series. This special event gives attendees unique opportunities to connect with their favorite actor or filmmaker. Keep your eyes open for star sighting around town, especially at the festival parties! For festival information or to submit your film for consideration, please refer to their website at www.SarasotaFilmFestival.com The Sarasota Chalk Festival is a week-long cultural event that celebrates the performance art form of Street Painting. In 2010, the festival became America’s First International Street Painting Festival with over 250 street painters from around the world, including the United States, Italy, Germany, Mexico, Canada, Netherlands and Slovia. The festival takes place in the Burns Square area of downtown Sarasota. In addition to being able to view the artists as they transform the streets into a virtual museum, there is also live music and a variety of other entertainment, adding to the excitement of the event. Sarasota Film Festival April 4 – 13, 2014 www.SarasotaFilmFestival.com Sarasota Chalk Festival www.ChalkFestival.org SFF20 14 SARASOTA FILM FESTIVAL April 4th - 13th www.flvacationguides.com 53 Cultural Activities Sarasota Ballet Sarasota Opera House The Ballet boasts a repertoire that includes the great classics, works of internationally recognized contemporary choreographers, beloved classics, and original works that have received outstanding critical acclaim. Performances for the 2014 Winter Season run through April 26, 2014. To receive a subscription brochure, call the Sarasota Ballet at 941-359-0099 The Sarasota Opera House is a restored 1926 theatre in the heart of dowtown Sarasota. With fewer than 1,200 seats it is an intimate venue, and there is not a bad seat in the house. Performances for the Season include Il Trovatore, The Barber of Seville, The Flying Dutchman and Jerusalem. The Season runs through March 22, 2014. Performances are in Italian with English projected titles. For more information or to order tickets please visit their website at www.SarasotaOpera.org Sarasota Ballet 941-359-0099 www.SarasotaBallet.org ©Frank Atura Sarasota Opera House 941-366-8450 888-OPERA-12 www.SarasotaOpera.org 61 North Pineapple Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236 54 Destination Siesta Key Destination Siesta Key Sarasota Orchestra The Asolo Repertory Theatre A new journey begins as the Sarasota Orchestra welcomes Anu Tali as the 5th Music Director in the 65-year history. Join the Orchestra as they perform an array of concerts throughout the season. Upcoming performances include Masterworks, Pops, Great Escape and Chamber concerts. To request a brochure, or to purchase concert tickets, call 941-953-3434, or go online to www.SarasotaOrchestra.org The Asolo Repertory Theatre is Florida’s premier professional theatre and one of the only four rotating repertory theatres in the country, performing up to hour plays per weekend. With an accomplished resident company and guest artists from around the world, Asolo Rep has gained critical acclaim. Running from November to July, the Asolo Rep season provides a varied repertoire of classic and cutting-edge plays. This year’s productions include Other Desert Cities, The Grapes of Wrath, 4000 Miles, and Hero: The Musical Additional information including show dates and how to order tickets may be obtained at www.Asolo.org. Sarasota Orchestra 941-953-3434 www.SarasotaOrchestra.org Asolo Repertory Theatre 800-361-8388 941-351-8000 www.Asolo.org 55555 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34243 www.flvacationguides.com 55 Cultural Activities Continued Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall The Van Wezel hosts a broad range of performances, from world-class symphonies, classical and modern dance companies, jazz artists, pop legends and the best Broadway has to offer. Performances for the 2014 season include Bob Newhart, Lang Lang, The Moscow Festival Ballet: Don Quixote, Chicago the Musical, Jerry Seinfeld, Peking Acrobats, Aaron Neville, Bill Cosby, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and John Legend. For a complete list of entertainment, show times and ticket prices, please refer to the Van Wezel website at www.VanWezel.org. 56 Destination Siesta Key The Van Wezel is located on Sarasota’s scenic bay front. It seats 1,736 and is owned and operated by the City of Sarasota. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 800-826-9303 www.VanWezel.org 777 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236 Box Office 941-953-3368 Destination Siesta Key Sarasota... A City Founded On The Circus Circus Sarasota Hailed around the globe as the “Greatest “Little” Show on Earth,” the Sailor Circus Academy is America’s oldest youth circus. More than 100 area students ranging from 4th to 12th grade are trained in various circus arts disciplines that include everything from clowning, juggling and unicycle to the flying trapeze, high-wire walking, aerial silks and more. Students participate in two annual productions - the Holiday Spectacular Shows that run in late December and Spring Shows that begin the end of March. For more information, or to order tickets, visit www. circusarts.org or call 941-355-9805. Founded by world-renowned circus performers Pedro Reis and Dolly Jacobs, Circus Sarasota - the professional performance sector of The Circus Arts Conservatory - brings audiences captivating, world-class entertainment, showcased in a one-ring five star European style circus, under their nostalgic Big Top. Weaved with everything from the artistic and awe-inspiring to the dramatic and daring, Circus Sarasota provides a magical tapestry of the circus arts, all for your enjoyment. Various productions run from November through February with a summer production at the Historic Asolo Theater to round out the year. For more information or to get your tickets, visit www.circusarts.org or call 941-355-9805. Photo Coutesy of Circus Sarasota Sailor Circus Academy Photo Coutesy of Circus Sarasota Photo Coutesy of Circus Sarasota Since 1927, when John Ringling relocated his winter circus here, Sarasota has played a leading role in the circus arts, earning its title of “Circus Capital of the World.” There is no entity that adds to this legacy or better exemplifies the living, breathing circus in our community than The Circus Arts Conservatory - an organization dedicated to sharing the entertainment, education and enrichment of the circus arts. www.flvacationguides.com 57 58 Destination Siesta Key Photo©2014 Adventure Marketing & Publishing An Island Paradise Luxury Condominiums on Beautiful Crescent Beach Vacation Rentals 2 Week Minimum Villas, one week minimum, Off-Season Toll Free: 888.419.1446 Phone 941.349.7007 Fax 941.346.1963 Email crystalsands00 @ aol.com www.crystalsandsonsiestakey.com 6300 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key Sarasota, Florida 34242 Why Argus Offers You More... Siesta Key’s Largest Offering of Island Resort Rentals & Sales 2 ▼ 1 ▼ 3 ▼ For Vacation Time Or A Lifetime! 1 Gulf & Bay Club Bayside 1200 Siesta Bayside Drive 941.346.3499 Fax 941.349.6156 Email [email protected] 2 Siesta Harbor 6289 Midnight Pass Road 941.349.3919 Fax 941.346.1017 Email [email protected] 3 Crescent Arms 6289 Midnight Pass Road 941.349.4171 Fax 941.349.2174 Email [email protected] For Information on Sales Call 941.927.6464 Walter Hammerling, Lic. Real Estate Broker Phone 1.941.346.3499 www.ArgusVacationRentals.com PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. 2477 Stickney Point Rd., Suite 118A • Sarasota 34231 Rentals & Sales in Sarasota • Siesta Key • Venice