S iesta Key, Florida is an eight-mile-long barrier island connected to Sarasota by two bridges. A portion of the north end of Siesta Key lies within the boundaries of the City of Sarasota, while the majority of Siesta Key lies in the unincorporated Sarasota County. Founded in 1846, this breathtakingly beautiful community today has approximately 24,000 residents. While still remote enough to give residents an ambiance of old Florida, Siesta Key has easy access to all of the conveniences of modern life. In 1987, an international contest was held and Siesta Key was crowned with the title of "the World's Finest and Whitest Beach." People from all over the world come to experience the soft, floury, cool sand made from 99% pure quartz crystal.

There is something quite magical about Siesta Key. Bursting with lush foliage, mature trees and tropical flowering shrubs line the walkways and streets throughout the village and along the beaches. The beaches are refreshingly natural, with wild sea oats and mangroves providing a protective habitat for the scores of native island birds, dolphins, manatees and other aquatic wildlife living just offshore and sharing the island. Beach facilities include picnic areas, restrooms, concession stands, playground, trails, and tennis and volleyball courts. For collecting shells, Turtle Beach at the south end of the island is the popular hotspot.

Residents of Siesta Key enjoy a high median household income of $66,397 a year. There are approximately 100 condominium developments dotted along the beaches. Condominium units with full beach views, range in price from $400,000 to $1,700,000. Units along the bay of Siesta Key start lower at $200,000 and go up to $1,500,000's. In addition to condominiums there are many single family homes ranging in price from the low $200,000's to bay front and beachfront estates starting at $1,000,000. Appreciation in home values of Siesta Key homes has outpaced most of the rest of Sarasota.

Fun in the sun is what Siesta Key is all about. Water sports are abundant on the island. With nearly 1,000 species of fish, there is year-round onshore and offshore fishing. You may wish to try deep-sea fishing, bridge fishing, or surf-casting. There are many types of saltwater fish in the waters that will give you the fishing challenge of a lifetime including barracuda, black drum, grouper, pompano, snapper and tarpon. There is also boating, sun tanning, dolphin tours, sunset cruises, and parasailing. Many "Keyites" enjoy bicycling and rollerblading through the quaint village or taking in the spectacular sunsets with a stroll on the beach. Whatever your recreational desires are, you will easily find it here.

Siesta Key is a shopper's wonderland. You can shop right on Siesta Key in two shopping districts, which are found on the northwest and south ends of the Key. Whether you are looking for souvenirs, groceries, gifts, or island clothing, there are 150 stores to explore. You will find unique boutiques, galleries, salons and shops in which to indulge yourself.

Siesta Key is an island of culinary pleasures. Many of the restaurants specialize in seafood delicacies including lobster, crab, blackened fish, raw oysters, and unique Gulf Coast seafood dishes. Siesta Key also offers a wide selection of Italian, American, Oriental and French cuisine to suit the most discerning tastes. Local restaurants offer many dining choices from formal and romantic to casual outdoor and family oriented environments. To top it all off there are numerous nightclubs hosting music and dancing.

S arasota County Public Schools have received praise from many different sources for their exceptional programs, teachers, administrators and school board. Money Magazine ranked them among the top 100 public school systems in the entire country. Expansion Management magazine rated them number one in the state with characteristics most valued by business and industry as well as determining that Sarasota County was one of only 96 districts nationwide to deserve a Gold Medal designation, indicating excellent academics and outstanding test results. Students consistently score at the top in the state on the Florida Comprehensive Achievement Tests, the Florida Writes Exam and the SAT and ACT college boards.

Siesta Key is a tropical oasis with rich culture and dynamic amenities. If you are considering moving to the island, or would like more information, please feel free to request a "free relocation package" today!