Rated the number one beach in the U.S. for 2015 according to TripAdvisor, Siesta Key Beach has once again taken the top spot. No surprise as Sarasota, FL is one of the most beautiful places in Florida to run. I should know as I am lucky enough to vacation there numerous times throughout the year.
So why is Siesta Key Beach such a great place? Well one, the white sand beaches, two, it has crystal clear waters, and three, it is a type of hidden gem. When people travel to Florida, they are more than likely to visit South Beach, the Florida Keys, Clearwater and Daytona Beach because of the nightlife, the reputation and probably the direct flights. To get to Sarasota, you have to either fly into Tampa and drive the hour south or be lucky enough to have either a direct flight or a connection that takes you into their airport. FYI, the Sarasota airport is super easy to get in and out of and small, unlike Tampa.
If you are to visit Sarasota, chances are you may hit the touristy spots of Lido Beach and St. Armands circle. But take it from me, you want to visit Siesta Key. It is the locals beach with minimal hotels, many houses and condos that are rented out to vacationers, and full of delicious little breakfast spots (Sun Garden Cafe– GO. TRUST ME).
Siesta Key Beach has the perfect sands for running, with hard-packed wet sand which gives you the support you need as well as fluffy and comfortable sand if you want to run barefoot or take a walk on the beach. For those of you who don’t like running on the sand, they have a road that runs through the main part of town and with views of the beach.
Siesta Key holds races and triathlons there throughout the year, and they always promise to have beautiful scenery whether it is along the beach, through the quaint Florida neighborhoods with palm trees galore. If you want to venture elsewhere, you will see many locals running over the Ringling bridge any day of the week. It is a tough steep bridge, but the views are spectacular.
Siesta Key Beach should be on any runners list of places to visit because there are numerous running options, wonderful places to refuel, and plenty of beaches to relax after a nice long run in the Florida sun. Enjoy!