Siesta Key has the ultimate laid-back beach vibe.
Sunsets anywhere are gorgeous, but they are not to be missed here.
Locals bring their drums and people dance and celebrate as the sun goes down.
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I feel like I’m on vacation without being far from home, she says.
Defebo likesPrime Vacationsfor multigenerational family get-togethers, group celebrations, and reunions.
Units range from two to eight bedrooms with fully equipped kitchens.
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If you didn’t want to leave the house, you wouldn’t have to, Defebo says.
you’re able to pick where you want to go and what suits you.
The property also partners with several local companies to facilitate kayak tours, boat rentals, and more.
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Best Things to Do
Snorkel Point of Rocks.
Spend the day on the beach.
Go fishing.
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They also offer sunset cruises, parasailing, and golf cart rentals.
Kayak or enjoy stand-up paddleboarding at Turtle Beach.
When you rent your vessel, ask for directions to Midnight Pass, which is only accessible by water.
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Bring yourself a snack and a drink and stay a while.
Join the Siesta Key Drum Circle.
When Defebo and Seymour have out-of-town guests, theSiesta Key Drum Circleis a must-do.
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Whether you just watch or get in the center with a hula hoop is up to you.
It’s a fantastic place to wander around for souvenirs.
[Expect] high-end boutiques, beach shops, jewelry stores, and more, she says.
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Every Sunday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m., theSiesta Key Farmers Marketpops up in Siesta Key Village.
Shoppers will find fresh produce, original oil paintings, clothing, and handmade crafts.
A line of daiquiri machines, bright orange and green decor, and open-air seating set the scene here.
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It’s open every day from 10 a.m. until midnight.
Defebo says to order The Best One the bartenders choice option for a delicious surprise.
Defebo loves this spot for late-night Saturday karaoke soirees with friends.
It stays open Sunday through Thursday until 11 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until midnight.
The patio remains packed and the legendary oyster happy hour runs from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. daily.
The real draw, though, is the scene at night.
Best Restaurants
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Summer House
For a splurge-worthy dinner, Seymour beelines toSummer House.
The Cottage
Located next door to the Summer House,The Cottageis another favorite for Seymour.
It’s open seven days a week for lunch and dinner in the heart of Siesta Key Village.
Sun Garden Cafe
According to Seymour,Sun Garden Cafehas the best breakfast in town.
Breakfast is served all day and you’re free to bring your dog to this pet-friendly hot spot.
Cafe Gabbiano
Defebo toutsCafe Gabbianoas one of the best places for homey Italian food in the area.
She says, They make their pasta by hand.
Order a frozen cocktail and a Salty Dog a tempura-battered, foot-long hot dog with fries.
Defebo agrees, adding that November is her favorite time to have guests.
TheSiesta Key Crystal Classicis a sand-sculpting competition held annually in November.
This also means you may be able to get a good deal on flights or accommodations during this window.
Next to that isMarie Selby Botanical Gardens, which has more than 20,000 exotic plants from around the world.
While there, check outThe Ringling, a 66-acre estate that houses museums, gardens, and attractions.
Its only 3.5 square miles.
Because of the compact size, its pretty easy to get around.
Adding to the ease of island transport is the complimentarySiesta Key Breeze trolley.
It operates daily for $2 per person, per trip.
