I'm looking for any input re Siesta Key. Places to stay, things to do. We will have kids aged 9-15. What are the nicest beaches?

Thank you

Siesta Keys florida is basically a beach. It is one of the top 5 beaches in the world actually, with snow white sands that feel like powder, and blue water that can only be part of the Gulf of Mexico. Basically, Florida is a retirement state, so I think it pretty slow. Then again I'm 19. But besides the beach, there are tons of restaurants, Tampa Bay is near by, and that includes Tampa Bay Busch Gardens, If you dont mind driving a bit, there's Miami which is south. Tons of shops. I think you'll have a good time. As far as places to stay, its a pretty posh part of florida and will be pretty expensive. I have a granny there, so i cant help you with the hotels.

Siesta Key is very nice, not just a beach. Right in the middle of it is St. Armand's Circle, which has some of western Fla's best shops -- some very upscale, some just fun (and a couple just for kids) -- and restaurants. Off to the north and south are the hotel areas and beaches. There is a nature walk at South Lido park, and it's easy enough to get off the island to Sarasota, where there's the Ringling Museum and Circus museum, as well as some more usual kid-type things (movies, miniature golf, etc.).

Siesta Key has beautiful beaches. If you want a very quiet, laid-back beach vacation, this is the place. The beach will probably be what the kids enjoy the most. Check with the local chamber--depending on the time of year, you can get inexpensive accommodations. You might also want to think about Longboat Key. They have lots of nice little motels/cottages. Anna Maria is also very nice. More like old Florida. Lots of little Bistros and motels. You should plan to spend at least one evening on St. Armands. Good restaurants and shopping. Be sure to take the kids to Mote Marine (you'll see great aquatic exhibits and Manatees.) Check out the Circus Museum at Ringling also (not sure if the renovations are complete there.) Have Fun.

As I said before, Siesta Keys IS basically a beach. I say that becuase I"m 19 - and I go there every year for at least a month. Everything to do there revolves around the goregous Gulf of Mexico! All types of watersports and such. They also have really posh golf courses, but they're very expensive to have to take children under 16. I didnt find anythign regarding the "circus" to be fun at all - but then again, everyone has different interests. All I have to say is, try the grouper! (spelling may be off, but its a type of fish in florida..very popular).

Hi Ralph-

A couple of things I forgot to mention--you might want to check with a local real estate agency that handles condo rentals--there are plenty on Siesta. YOu might try Michael Saunders agency first if you want to try that route. I also forgot to mention that the circus museum is on the Ringling Art Museum compound. On a rainy day, a good docent will give an interesting tour of both Museums, and fill you in on the local flavor. We live in the Sarasota area and my kids enjoy it. Also, one correction to an earlier post--St. Armands is not in the middle of Siesta Key--it is on the South end of Longboat Key near Mote Marine. You cannot access that island from Siesta. You must go back to the mainland to access the bridge, but it is worth a visit. If your kids like sharks teeth, also try Casperson Beach in Venice (about 45 minutes south). They are abundant on the shore there.