The main beach access on Siesta Key has a mammoth parking lot where you can park for free. Despite its size, it fills early on weekends and in high season. This is ground zero for the island’s reputation as the nation’s number one beach with talcum quartz sand and family-friendly calm, aqua waters.

At the park’s main concession, you will find a fine example of the highly vaunted Sarasota School of Architecture in its pavilion designed by award-winning architect Edward J. Seibert. The wee ones can frolic in the sandcastle-themed playground, while the older ones take advantage of beach rentals concession. A café serves flatbreads, pizza, hot dogs, soft pretzels and daiquiris.