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All things Siesta Key. Stories, news, and event information about Sarasota, Florida's beautiful beach.
Turtle Beach – Why It’s a Local Favorite
Turtle Beach Near Siesta Key
Off the coast of Sarasota lies a hidden gem that few visitors get to enjoy. Turtle Beach, known for its quiet shores and nesting sea turtles, is a beautiful, serene getaway that attracts a large number of sea turtles during mating season. It also provides a more secluded beachfront for visitors, featuring camping, shelling, and sunbathing along with kayaking and swimming. With so many gorgeous spots to visit along Siesta Key, the professionals at Best Western Siesta Key want to make sure you get a chance to enjoy this delightful stretch of beach while you’re in the area.
What Is Turtle Beach?
Turtle Beach is the 2,600 square feet of beach on the south end of Siesta Key, an eight-mile-long barrier island off the coast of Sarasota, Florida. Besides being less populated than the other beaches in the Sarasota area, Turtle Beach attracts large numbers of sea turtles every year during mating season, May 1- October 31. Sea turtles love to build nests in the coarse, dark sand that distinguishes this beach from the others along Siesta Key. Bordered by tall trees all around, the Turtle Beach Campground provides gorgeous landscape mere feet from the beach itself.
Where is Turtle Beach?
Turtle Beach can be reached by traveling south on Midnight Pass Road in Sarasota. The barrier island of Siesta Key comes close to the mainland of Sarasota near this point, but it is not the typical resort beach that much of Siesta Key tends to be. In fact, the famous quartz-infused sands of Siesta Key are much different than that of Turtle Beach, which is darker and coarser. A bit more secluded and off the beaten path, Turtle Beach is usually found by those looking for it specifically. If you venture out during the sea turtle nesting season, be careful to avoid disturbing clearly-marked nests.
Why We Love Turtle Beach
With so many available beaches, many that tend to get crowded in spring and summer, we love the seclusion Turtle Beach offers. The Turtle Beach Campground is a unique way to sleep on the beach under the stars, and with amenities like picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a horseshoe pit, there’s always something to do. Swimming, kayaking, fishing from the shore, and sunbathing are always available, as well, making this an ideal vacation spot for families. Plus, the plethora of beautiful shells to be gathered can keep you walking and searching all day long!
When you visit the Sarasota/Siesta Key area, be sure to take a stroll along Turtle Beach. Marvel at the natural beauty of Florida’s less-touched beaches while soaking in the sun, surf, and fresh island breezes. For more information about how to find and enjoy one of Sarasota’s best-kept secrets, talk to the local experts at Best Western Siesta Key. We look forward to helping you make the most of your visit to this area!