Turtle Beach on Siesta Key is a must-visit if you’re staying anywhere on the Key. Or anywhere in Southwest Florida, for that matter.
How Far is Turtle Beach from Siesta Key Beach?
We have great news: Turtle Beach is one of the three gorgeous beaches that make up the barrier island known as Siesta Key. It comes by its name honestly, as it’s a very popular nesting ground for Florida’s famous sea turtles. The turtles, eggs, and nests are protected by law, so if you do come across some or a nest, make sure not to touch or disturb them.
This beach is distinct from Crescent Beach and the public beach, in that it almost doesn’t seem to be a part of Siesta Key. The sand is coarser and darker and doesn’t have the reflective properties that keep the white sands of the other two beaches so cool.
But that’s not necessarily a downside. The shoreline is dotted with lovely dunes where grasses, beach dune sunflowers, and other native beach vegetation grows. It’s much appreciated by locals and others who long for that “Old Florida” vibe.
This is also a top spot for sea shell collectors. Because the sand here is rougher, it is easier to find some beautiful shells and even some sand dollars along the shoreline, especially early in the morning or after a storm.
Are there Amenities at Turtle Beach?
Turtle Beach tends to be quieter than the other two beaches. However, it also has many fewer commercial amenities. There are only two restaurants in the area, and they are the only two waterfront restaurants on the Key.
- Ophelia’s on the Bay: Featuring an expansive view of Little Sarasota Bay, Ophelias is generally found on every “best of” list in Sarasota. Ophelia’s focuses on fine dining in an upscale atmosphere. Dinner only. Reservations are highly recommended.
- Turtles on Little Sarasota Bay: Turtles offers a more casual option than Ophelia’s. They’re open for lunch and dinner every day, including holidays. Accessible by boat at marker 48. Fresh food with reasonable prices.
However, beachgoers will appreciate that there are bathroom and changing facilities, barbeque pits, and pavilions with picnic tables. And parents and their kids will appreciate the playground, just steps from the beach. Unlike the Crescent Beach area, there is ample free parking at Turtle Beach.
There are no lifeguards on duty.
Can You Camp at Turtle Beach?
Yes! Turtle Beach is the only place on Siesta Key where you can camp. There are 39 closely spaced, crushed shell parking pads with full hookups for electric, water, sewer, cable, and Wi-Fi.
Both tent and RV camping are permitted with the following caveats for RVs:
- Motorhomes must be no longer than 38 feet.
- Fifth Wheelers and Travel trailers must be no longer than 36 feet.
- Sites are back-in only.
- Pets are strictly prohibited.
To learn more about camping at Turtle Beach, visit the Sarasota County website.
How Can I Get to Turtle Beach on Siesta Key?
While you can easily walk between Crescent Beach and Sista Key Public Beach, it’s very difficult to walk to Turtle Beach. Once you get to the southernmost point of Crescent Beach, access to Turtle Beach is blocked by Point of Rocks, a natural rock formation that juts out into the Gulf.
Because there is plenty of free parking, driving to Turtle Beach is usually very straightforward if you have a car. If not, you can take the free trolley. Or explore one of the other options for getting around Siesta Key.
Regardless of where you’re staying on the Key, Turtle Beach is well worth a visit.
