Best Ways to Enjoy A Siesta Key Sunset

Siesta Key is known for its multicolor explosions in the sky that douse the water with a reddish light and cause the breeze to rise as the sun dips. Viewing Siesta Key sunsets is one of the favorite outdoor activities on this vacation island. What’s better than ending a full day with a walk on the beach, a glass of wine, or a fantastic meal while the sun sets?

Here are a few great ways to enjoy a Siesta Key sunset on your next vacation:

At Sunset Point

Sunset Point is a Siesta Key favorite for sunset viewing. Located at the north end of Siesta Public Beach, this jut of land offers one of the best views of the rainbow of colors that graces the Gulf’s skies every evening.

This spot can get busy sometimes and there’s no parking. However, there are more than 10 public access points along Siesta Beach, some with parking, for additional views.

Add a little romance to your sunset by taking a long walk on the beach, catching the show from different viewpoints.

Dining at a Waterfront Restaurant

Reserve a table at Ophelia’s on the Bay, one of Siesta Key’s acclaimed fine dining restaurants.

It’s on the bay side of this barrier island, but it has a reputation for an extraordinary view. Watch the colorful clouds stretch along the sky as you enjoy a flavorful gourmet meal.

Ophelia’s specializes in upscale seafood and excellent cuts of meat. The dining room features huge bay windows that bathe you in the warm light of the setting sun, and patio seating in a lush garden dotted with fairy light-wrapped palms.

Ophelia’s is located at 9105 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key, FL.

Making Music at the Siesta Beach Drum Circle

Jive to the rhythm of beating drums as the sun hangs lower and lower in the sky at Siesta Key’s famous drum circle.

This local ritual occurs every Sunday afternoon, starting about an hour before sunset, at Siesta Public Beach, just south of the main pavilion.

Free spirits of all ages and walks of life gather here to drum, dance, and twirl batons – a great opportunity for some evening entertainment.

Don’t forget to bring a beach chair or blanket.

Practicing Yoga on Siesta Beach

Stretch, flex, and strengthen as you listen to the waves lap against the shore and the sun dip below the horizon.

Unfortunately, sunset classes on the beach are hard to come by, but grab your mat, towel, water, and friends, and make your own class or enjoy a moment of meditation on your own.

Alternatively, Yoga on Siesta Beach offers yoga Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. year-round.

Bring towel or mat, water, and cash donation (or donate through their website). Yoga takes place between the red and green lifeguard stands – come early to sign in and get a good spot.

Picnicking at Private Turtle Beach

Siesta Beach might have whiter sand, but family-friendly Turtle Beach is quiet and private – the perfect place to enjoy a picnic dinner with the kids or that special someone as the sun sets.

Head to Morton’s Siesta Market and pick up a prepared meal or have them deliver to the beach.

Turtle Beach is a nesting ground for sea turtles from May to October, so if you’re lucky you’ll spot some mothers or hatchlings. It’s also a great place to spot playful dolphins, who tend to be more active at sunrise and sunset.

Head out to the Turtle Beach campground for an evening BBQ and watch the colors fade to twinkling stars. Turtle Beach has ample parking, restroom facilities, a playground, and a pavilion for barbecuing.

Sipping a Glass of Wine at your Vacation Rental Accommodations

Watch the sun dip below the treeline and the skies burst with color without leaving your cozy luxury vacation rental.

Take a dip in the outdoor pool or kick back on your patio with a glass of wine as the warm pinks and oranges saturate the heavens. Stay for a weekend, week, or longer to enjoy a number of Siesta Key sunsets – each one a little different from the previous.