Siesta Key is known throughout the world for its beautiful white quartz sand beaches and clear calm waters, but there are also some of the most incredible nature trails and wildlife viewing opportunities on and off the island. On these nature trails, you can participate in a number of outdoor activities and other things to do including hiking, jogging, biking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and fishing.

Siesta Key Wildlife on the Beach

Whether you choose to go out on a boat tour or stay on the island and hike along the beaches, you will have an excellent opportunity to view a wide range of local species that make the barrier island of Siesta Key their home throughout the year.

During the fall and winter, you’ll be able to spot a number of different types of migrating birds, with Siesta Beach being one of the best locations for birdwatching. Some of the species you might catch a view of include: royal terns, black skimmers, sanderlings, willets, laughing gulls, herons, egrets, ospreys, pelicans, storks, spoonbills, and many others.

The best time for birding is during the early morning hours before the beaches become overrun with people.

Spring and summer months offer even better birdwatching opportunities as many shorebirds including skimmers will nest on the beaches during the summertime. The best time for birding is during the early morning hours before the beaches become overrun with people. Animal experts advise not to feed the birds or other local wildlife human food.

Dolphins swim the beaches of Siesta Key throughout the year, and you may be able to catch a view of them near the shore. If you find several birds near the water, the chances are that there they are diving for fish and dolphins may be nearby as well. Be sure to avoid approaching them if you are in the water and view them from a distance for the safety of you and the animal.

From May through October is sea turtle nesting season, and during this time you will be able to see loggerhead and green sea turtles nesting on the sands of Siesta Key. Turtle hatchlings make their trek across the shore to the Gulf of Mexico where they will live in seaweed beds along the coast. You are not legally allowed to approach a nesting turtle hatchling, touch them, or use flash photography as it can disorient them, but you can observe them from a distance.

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Visit Myakka River State Park

Myakka River State Park is only 16 miles from Siesta Key and offers another excellent opportunity for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing and other outdoor activities. A canopy walk is available where you can view the Myakka River basin, the tree line, and wildlife from above.

For serious hikers, there is a 39-mile Myakka Hiking Trail offering a wide range of different habitats to explore. The trails go through oak hammocks, grasslands, and vast prairies with 5 campsites along the way. The trail is also broken down into four loops so that you can plan day hikes out rather than traversing the whole trail. Be sure to call ahead and find out the conditions of the trail.

Myakka Canopy Walkway

A nice walk through nature usually involves wandering down marked paths (perhaps getting a little lost), admiring the flora and fauna, and trying to spot a few small creatures scurrying through the bushes. But what if you could see things from a different perspective? If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to have a bird’s perspective, Myakka Canopy Walkway is the perfect place to take a stroll. 

This treetop canopy path provides easy access to a perspective of nature usually hidden to the human eye. The walkway is suspended 35 feet above the ground and extends 100 feet. The taller tower reaches a whopping 74 feet. You’ll need to make it past 100 stairs, but once there, you’ll witness a spectacular view of treetops, wetlands, and birds of pretty awaiting their next meal. 

The first of its kind in North America, the walkway also functions as an outdoor laboratory for research and education. The TREE Foundation is currently working to protect airplants from the invasive weevil species. Families who visit the Canopy Walkway will find it a great source of fun and education. Even if not everyone in your group is fit enough to make it to the top, nearby Bolyston Nature trail is a good alternative and the perfect place to walk dogs.

Oscar Scherer State Park

If you’re looking for another beautiful state park near Siesta Key for hiking, Oscar Scherer is a great option with its 15 miles of scenic trails. This is a much smaller park than Myakka River State Park, and it also has several facilities, making it a good choice for families.

Visit early in the day or right before sunset, as these are some of the best times for wildlife viewing. The paved Legacy Trail is also accessible from this park and it is perfect for hiking, strollers, rollerblading and biking. The Legacy Trail runs from Venice to Sarasota and passes right through Oscar Scherer State Park.

Bay Isle: Nora Patterson Bay Island Park

This sea-side park is the ideal location for a picnic or to drop a line. From Sarasota to Siesta Key, cross the Route 758 Bridge, and the park straddles both sides of the road as you arrive on the island. Usually, the park does not attract a crowd, so it is a good place to find some peace and quiet. You’ll also find sun and shade, tables for picnics, facilities, and great Gulf-front views. As a dog-friendly park, you can take your furry friend along to stretch its legs. The park has water access, meaning it is a great place to fish, birdwatch, view wildlife, or simply watch passing boats. Time will fly as you linger peacefully by the water. Park hours are from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Little Manatee River State Park

Designated as an outstanding Florida water, Little Manatee River flows almost 40 miles before emptying into Tampa Bay. It is part of the Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve and one of the most pristine blackwater rivers in Southwest Florida. Many rare ecosystems can be found in the state park, including sand pine, oak scrub, and oxbow wetlands. Visitors can explore the expanse of the park by hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, or camping. Hikers will appreciate that it is one of the premier hiking destinations in Southwest Florida. If you enjoy nature, there is something for everyone here! 

The park is open from 8 a.m. to sundown 365 days a year. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. 

Come Back and Relax 

After a long day out in nature, exploring, getting messy, and making memories, return to your Siesta Key rental for a quick shower and a night on the town. Head out shopping or dine out at a beautiful seaside restaurant. Cool down with an ice cream cone or a dip in the pool. 

Our luxury rentals provide all the comforts of home and much more. Enjoy backyard barbeques, pools, saunas, slides, arcades, and game rooms. Even our Siesta Key condo rentals offer amenities such as pools, courtyards, and balconies with stunning sea and city views. By booking one of our properties, you can experience the best of both worlds: Florida’s stunning nature and the comfort of a luxury vacation.