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While Siesta Key beaches draw the most attention thanks to their sparkling white sand, crystalline waters, and proximity to shopping and dining on Siesta Key, one lesser-known beach – Turtle Beach – is a tranquil escape from the excitement of the island.
If you’re booking a condo rental in Siesta Key, FL this year, you’ll want to spend a day exploring Turtle Beach’s sandy shores.
Why Turtle Beach?
Turtle Beach might not have the prestigious award of the white sands of Siesta Beach, but it is known for plenty of other things. Away from the hustle and bustle of the island, Turtle Beach offers a welcome respite during peak beach-going season.
This is a popular shelling spot, as plenty of shells wash ashore. The water tends to be calmest earlier in the day, so aim to head to Turtle Beach in the morning. Turtle Beach is an excellent place to swim and is considered fairly shallow. Kids should be careful, however, because right at the water’s edge there is a drop-off before it gets shallow again.
Paddleboards and kayaks can be rented nearby, giving you the freedom to explore the island’s thriving waterways. Be sure to catch one of Turtle Beach’s magnificent sunsets – the perfect way to end of a long day of activities under the sun.
The sand here is darker and coarser, but it is laid-back and quiet. This not only means relaxation but also the chance to see some of the region’s wildlife up close. Animals tend to be more active in the morning and as the sun goes down in the evening. Look for manatee, dolphin, sea, and shorebirds, and, of course, turtles early or late in the day.
Sea turtles
Turtle Beach is named for the sea turtles that come ashore each year to nest. These endangered animals are some of the oldest reptiles, dating back more than 200 million years. Turtle nesting season on Siesta Key runs from May to October every year, giving visitors an opportunity to see turtles and their nests – at a respectful distance, of course.
Females come ashore at Turtle Beach and dig large cavities in the dry sand, for nests. After laying their eggs, usually about 100, they cover them with sand for protection. After nearly two months, turtles no more than a few inches begin to break out of their shells and head toward the ocean, guided by the reflection of the moon on the water.
If you’re at Turtle Beach during nesting season, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for turtles and their nests, and give them plenty of space. Lights on the beach after dark, obtrusive beach chairs, and contact with humans and pets can be detrimental to the survival of the hatchlings. Please respect all those who use Turtle Beach – especially the sea turtles.
Camping at Turtle Beach
Turtle Beach is one of the few places on the island where you can safely and legally set up camp and sleep under the stars. If you’re staying at monthly vacation rentals on Siesta Key, why not pitch a tent for a night or two at the campground at Turtle Beach?
The campground also offers public restrooms and showers, picnic tables and shelters, and even a playground for the younger travelers in the family. There is a large parking lot nearby for both campers and beachgoers.
Where is Turtle Beach located?
Turtle Beach is located at the south end of Siesta Key, beyond Stickney Point Road, the bridge that connects the barrier island with the neighboring mainland. This beach is about three miles from our beachfront condo rentals and can be accessed by bike, car, or by the island’s free trolley, the Siesta Key Breeze. Turtle Beach is wedged between the Gulf of Mexico and Blind Pass, an inlet that’s perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Dubbed Siesta Key’s adventure beach, Turtle Beach is a perfect place to get away from the crowds and experience true South Florida natural beauty. For more information on our fabulous Siesta Key beachfront vacation rentals, browse our website today. Here, you’ll find plenty of information on our siesta key monthly rentals, as well as detailed descriptions of things to do and see on Siesta Key.
