Our Blog
All things Siesta Key. Stories, news, and event information about Sarasota, Florida's beautiful beach.
A Guide to Biking Around Siesta Key & Sarasota
On Siesta Key and in Sarasota, you will see a lot of people getting around town by bicycle. Not only is this a fun outdoor activity, but it’s an easy and quick way to get from the beach to Siesta Key Village or even downtown Sarasota. Sarasota County has made biking safe by implementing stricks laws for cars, pedestrians, and bikers to follow as well as creating designated bike lanes. If you love hopping on a bike or are looking for an alternative to renting a car on your beach vacation, Best Western Siesta Key is sharing everything you need to know.
Where Can You Rent a Bike Near Siesta Key?
With Siesta Key and Sarasota being a bike-friendly areas, naturally, there are many places where you can rent bicycles while on vacation. Two popular bike rental shops are Siesta Key Bike & Kayak and Ride & Paddle by Siesta Key Sports Rentals, which have all sorts of bicycles for adults, kids, and toddlers, including electric bikes. These shops also provide kayaks, paddleboards, strollers, and beach gear like umbrellas and chairs. You can also rent Veo bicycles in downtown Sarasota or near the beaches right from your phone.
What is the Legacy Trail?
If you want to go on a leisurely bike ride, the Legacy Trail is the perfect place to do so. The Legacy Trail is a clearly marked and paved bike path that stretches from downtown Sarasota to Venice Beach. With various trailheads, you can bike with the entire family, even your furry friends, to Oscar Scherer State Park, downtown Sarasota, Robert’s Bay, playgrounds, and more exciting destinations. Along the way, you can find shady spots with benches so you can take a rest and soak in the Florida nature. While on the Legacy Trail, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, like birds and turtles.
Are There Biking Laws I Need to Follow?
The State of Florida and Sarasota County have essential laws and regulations in place for the safety of bikers, drivers, and pedestrians. Bicyclists have the same responsibilities as drivers in vehicles and should obey all traffic laws, including stopping at red lights, properly utilizing turning lanes, and riding with the flow of traffic. When biking around Siesta Key and Sarasota, always stay to the right, obey the crosswalk signals, yield to pedestrians, and give an audible signal before passing someone. It is also Florida law that anyone riding a bike under the age of 16 must wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet.
How Else Can I Stay Safe While Biking Around Sarasota?
It is important to always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, no matter your age. If you plan to spend some time on the Legacy Trail, familiarize yourself with the various crossing types, as you will often need to cross the road on your journey. It is safest to stay to the right when biking, especially if others need to pass. When biking alongside streets, stay in the bike lane whenever possible and avoid biking on the sidewalks.
There are so many ways to get around Siesta Key and Sarasota, from rental cars and ride-share services to trolleys. However, not much beats cruising to the beach on a good old-fashioned bicycle, especially since Best Western Siesta Key is centrally located to all of the best spots!