Gertrude Rentals Blog

Welcome to Siesta Key, where tropical charm meets culinary excellence. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, authentic global flavors, or a laid-back pub bite, Siesta Key Village has a table waiting for you. Here’s your go-to guide for Gertrude’s favorite dinner, dessert and breakfast spots spots on the island:   Dinner Dining Guide: Siesta Key Village The Cottage A cozy and upscale gem offering a modern American menu with a seafood...

Top Attractions of Siesta Key: A Beach Lover’s Paradise Siesta Key offers an irresistible mix of sun, sea, and outdoor adventure, making it one of Florida’s most beloved beach destinations. From bustling public beaches to secluded coastal gems, here are the top beach attractions that draw visitors year-round: Siesta Public Beach Why It’s Popular: Siesta Public Beach is the island’s largest and most iconic beach. Famous for its soft, cool-to-the-touch...

Siesta Key isn’t just a beautiful place to catch some sun—it’s a true family vacation paradise. With powdery white sand, calm Gulf waters, and a welcoming, laid-back vibe, it’s a destination where parents can unwind and kids can create lifelong memories. From outdoor adventures to marine life encounters, this guide covers everything you need to plan an unforgettable family trip to Siesta Key. Why Choose Siesta Key for a Family...

How to Save $500 a Week on Siesta Key Going out is fun—and yes, you should absolutely do it—but the real goal of any vacation is to relax, connect, and make memories. Here’s a smart way to do that without draining your wallet. Start & End the Party at the Rental — Save $100+ Per Couple, Per Day Why it works: Bars on Siesta Key are fun, but they’re not...

(Updated April 13, 2025) SIESTA KEY THIS MONTH, IN PICTURES AND WORDS Siesta Key is 100% back to normal (on average:)) after the hurricanes, but we do still need your support.  Feedback on each attraction is below! Beaches 105% – Beaches are better than normal because they are wider, have more shells, and the Sandbar formations have been outrageous. Most beaches look like they gained about 40 feet and I...

PADDLE BOARD AND KAYAK GUIDE SIESTA KEY Why is Siesta Key a top spot? If you’re looking to explore the waters of Siesta Key and Sarasota County by paddle boarding and kayaking this is a complete guide to all the best of this area. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just figuring it out, the calm water, abundant and non-threatening wildlife and stunning scenery here make it a top destination...

Fishing in Siesta Key offers a fantastic variety of species and locations. Here are some of the top spots and tips to help you make the most of your fishing trip. Popular Species and Techniques Beaches and Inshore Waters: Tarpon: Caught off Siesta Key beaches. Snook: Premier inshore game fish. Speckled Trout, Pompano, Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Ladyfish: Common catches in the flats. Sheepshead, Mangrove Snapper, Gag Grouper, Black Drum: Often...

FISHING ON SIESTA KEY Siesta Key offers a rich variety of fish species. Popular catches include tarpon, snook, speckled trout, pompano, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, ladyfish, sheepshead, mangrove snapper, gag grouper, and black drum. These can be caught offshore of the beaches, around the bridges, in Big Sarasota Pass, on the grass flats, and near docks using live shrimp and other bait. Choosing Between Renting a Boat and Taking a Charter...

FIVE NO-GIMMICK WAYS TO SAVE THOUSANDS ON A SIESTA KEY VACATION Vacations are essential for living happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Here’s how to travel farther without financial stress. Trade the Hotel Room for a Vacation Rental – Save Up to 50% Vacation homes offer charm and intimacy, often at a lower cost than hotels. For example, a 1-bedroom vacation rental in Siesta Key costs $650/week, while nearby Tropical Breeze...

SKIP A RENTAL CAR ON SIESTA KEY TO SAVE $500-$1500 PER WEEK Planning a Siesta Key vacation? Consider skipping the rental car to save between $500 and $1500 per week. By staying near your main attractions or close to the trolley route, you can avoid the hassle, expense and disconnected experience of driving. Skipping the rental car on Siesta Key will make your trip less stressful, more authentic and more...