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 everyone. Here are 10 fun, family-friendly activities that will make your beach day unforgettable.
This guide is brought to you by Gertrude Rentals—your go-to vacation rental provider for family fun at Siesta Key Beach. We offer family-friendly stays just steps from the sand. Let us help make your Siesta Key getaway comfortable, convenient, and full of fun!
Fun Things to Do with Kids in Siesta Key
1. Build A Masterpiece in The Sand
Siesta Key’s powdery quartz sand is perfect for sandcastle building. Bring some buckets and tools. You can also join a sand sculpting lesson or competition. Look for local events like the Siesta Key Crystal Classic. It’s creative fun that doesn’t cost a dime.
Siesta Key’s soft white sand is perfect for sandcastle fun—creativity thrives by the shore!
2. Splash in the Shallow, Calm Waters
Parents love Siesta Beach because of the gentle Gulf waves and wide, shallow shoreline—perfect for younger kids to wade and splash safely. Don’t forget to pack floaties, snorkel masks, and beach toys for extra fun.
Paddleboarding at Siesta Key is a favorite for adventurous kids—calm waters, big smiles!
3. Explore the Playground at Siesta Beach Pavilion
Need a break from the sand? The public beach pavilion has a shaded playground. It includes swings, slides, and climbing equipment. This is great for burning off energy.
Siesta Beach’s castle-themed playground is a must-stop for kids—fun, shade, and plenty of room to play!
4. Grab a Scoop at Big Olaf Creamery
No beach day is complete without ice cream. Head to Big Olaf Creamery in Siesta Key Village for homemade, Amish-style ice cream. With dozens of flavors and generous scoops, it’s a sweet reward for the whole crew.
Grab Some Ice Cream in Siesta Key Village
5. Go on a Dolphin or Wildlife Boat Tour
Family fun at Siesta Key includes spotting dolphins leaping from the water—something kids absolutely love. Many local tour operators offer fun activities for families. You can go on dolphin cruises, enjoy sunset sails, or take glass-bottom boat rides. These activities are available in Sarasota Bay and the Gulf.
Dolphin tour fun near Siesta Key Beach!
6. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding or Kayaking
Older kids will enjoy trying paddleboarding or kayaking—and you might spot manatees or fish along the way! Rentals and guided family tours are available right on the beach or nearby.
Teenage girl paddleboarding on calm water near Siesta Key
7. Visit Crescent Beach for Shelling and Nature Walks
Just south of Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach offers a quieter vibe and great shelling opportunities. Kids can hunt for unique seashells, watch birds, or explore nearby trails and the lagoon.
Shelling fun at Crescent Beach—perfect for curious little explorers!
8. Join the Siesta Key Drum Circle (Sunday Evenings)
Every Sunday evening near sunset, locals and visitors gather for a drum circle on the public beach. There’s music, dancing, and an electric, joyful vibe that kids (and parents) love. Bring a blanket and stay for the sunset show.
Every Sunday evening, locals and visitors gather for the Siesta Key Drum Circle—music, dancing, and unforgettable sunsets!
9. Ride the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley
The free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley is a hit with kids. Get on and off as you explore the island. Travel from the beach to the Village. Enjoy the open-air ride without worrying about parking.
Hop on the free Siesta Key Breeze Trolley—easy, breezy island rides for the whole family!
10. Have a Family Picnic with a View
Family fun at Siesta Key isn’t complete without a relaxing picnic. Pack a cooler or grab takeout from a local deli and head to one of the picnic shelters at Siesta Beach. You’ll find tables, BBQ grills, restrooms, and plenty of shade—plus, unbeatable ocean views.
Relax with a family picnic and ocean view at one of Siesta Beach’s shady spots.
Final Tip: Come Prepared!
To make the most of your day of fun things to do with kids in Siesta Key, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, umbrellas, towels, and snacks. There are plenty of rental options for chairs, shade tents, and beach gear if you’d rather pack light.
Siesta Key Beach isn’t just beautiful—it’s built for families. With safe swimming, fun attractions, and plenty of kid-approved activities, it’s easy to see why so many families come back year after year. See you in the sand!
Book your perfect family getaway with Gertrude Rentals and enjoy the comfort of home just minutes from the beach.
