It may come as a surprise to you when Siesta Key is known for their sandy beaches and water sports, but arguably one of the best ways to experience the Florida Keys is walking by foot through the unique terrain this area has to offer. Catch a glimpse of the unique birds found in the area underneath the canopies of the mangroves as you stroll through this tropical paradise with these Siesta Key nature walks.
Nature at Its Finest
The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is located in downtown Sarasota at 1534 Mound Street. This 15-acre campus is an urban oasis showing a living collection of rare and beautiful tropical plants on the waterfront of Sarasota Bay and Hudson Bayou. It is the only botanical garden in the world dedicated to the display and study of epiphytic orchids, bromeliads, gesneriads and ferns, and other tropical plants. With a cafe featuring gourmet food, coffee drink, as well as beer and wine, guests are encouraged to enjoy their drinks and libations as they leisurely stroll through the gardens.
The Joan M Durante Community Park is located on Longboat Key at 5550 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Check out the amazing water views and blooming tropical fauna as you stroll along the walking path under the shade of the mangroves. This is an excellent destination for escaping the crowds and slowing your pace on a handicap accessible trail system. If you’re traveling with your furry companion, this park is dog-friendly and a perfect destination to get out and explore together.
Conveniently located in Sarasota at 5200 Beneva Road, the Red Bug Slough Preserve is an excellent escape from the buzz of the city without traveling a far distance. This 72-acre preserve features dirt trails throughout, featuring several miles of hiking trails, a small playground, picnic shelters and a fishing dock. Also leashed pets are allowed, so you can bring the entire family!
If you feel like really venturing out on your next nature walks in Siesta Key, Myakka River State Park is the home of 58 square miles of pure, untouched nature. With 39 miles of hiking trails, featuring loops of varying lengths, visitors can custom suit their nature walk to their own desires and abilities. Visitors will enjoy the vastly diversified terrains of cypress domes, prairies, pinelands, marshes, shrublands, and open plains or they can opt instead for a quiet perch atop the boardwalk stretching out across the Upper Myakka Lake. This park is located at 13208 SR-72, Sarasota FL.
Get Out and Explore With These Siesta Key Nature Walks
While the white sandy beaches and clear blue waters of Siesta Key are absolutely worth their weight in gold, there are so many other beautiful areas to explore during your next stay with us. Treat yourself to the fresh breeze, moving landscapes, and sweet-scented botanicals that can be found along these truly special nature walks in Siesta Key when you book a stay in one of our rentals.
