Technically part of Sarasota, Siesta Key has developed a separate, slightly renegade personality, even compared to the other islands. It breaks from the chain both spiritually and physically – its two bridges connect with the mainland, but not with the islands to the north. Siesta Key's renown was built upon sand – the whitest, finest, softest sand south of Florida's Panhandle. Unlike other West Coast beaches, Siesta Key gets quartz sand. It drifts down from the Panhandle, where the beaches derive from Appalachian Mountain run-off.
Siesta Key's claim to the world's whitest beach has naturally made the island beach-preoccupied. It is quite heavily developed, but still within the boundaries of good taste that Sarasota sets. At its fringes, resorts are non-chain and the wealthy have built up exclusive communities.
Where does all this leave the visitor with a yearning for outdoor excitement? In good standing. Fishing, boating, kayaking, snorkeling, and sports of all sorts are a strong part of this stunningly white beach world hedged by protected bay waters.
