Gertrude Rentals Blog

Manatees & Dolphins of Siesta Key: Gentle Giants and Playful Performers When most people think of Siesta Key, they picture the famous quartz-white sand, stunning Gulf sunsets, and warm tropical breezes. But what many visitors don’t realize is that our waters are also home to two of Florida’s most beloved marine residents — the gentle manatee and the playful bottlenose dolphin. Whether you’re spotting a curious manatee grazing along the...

The Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary for Siesta Key First-Time Visitors What to See, Eat, and Explore on Your First Beach Getaway? Siesta Key, Florida, is a slice of paradise on the Gulf Coast known for its powdery white sand, warm turquoise waters, and laid-back beach town charm. Whether you’re planning a relaxing retreat or a fun-filled adventure, this 3-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors looking to make the most of...

Your Guide to a Stylish and Safe Independence Day Celebration with Gertrude Rentals Planning a vacation in Siesta Key over July 4th? There’s no better way to celebrate America’s birthday than with a private pool party under the stars—and Gertrude Rentals offers the perfect vacation homes to do just that. In this guide, we’ll show you how to host a fun, festive, and safe July 4th pool party—complete with patriotic...

Family Fun at Siesta Key Beach: 10 Kid-Friendly Things to Do Planning a family beach vacation? Look no further than Siesta Key Beach—a paradise with sugar-white sand, calm Gulf waters, and endless ways to keep the kids entertained. Family fun at Siesta Key Beach is easy to find, whether you’re traveling with toddlers, tweens, or teens. From relaxing on the shore to exploring nearby adventures, Siesta Key offers something for...

By Gertrude Rentals Snorkeling at Point of Rocks Siesta Key is one of the most unforgettable things you can do on Florida’s Gulf Coast. You wake up to sunshine pouring through the window and the sound of waves in the distance. It’s one of those perfect beach days—the kind that makes you want to head straight to the water. You grab your snorkel gear, toss on your swimsuit, and head...

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...