Feeling a bit out of sorts lately and looking for somewhere to escape to?
Well, we know just the place: Turtle Beach, Florida. This barrier island provides a beach oasis where you can get away from it all and feel connected with the world around you.
And there’s no shortage of fun at Turtle Beach. Siesta Key is also located just north of the beach, close to Sarasota, and provides another great place to visit along the Florida coast.
In this post, we’ll share fun things to do in the area. And in case you’re planning an entire weekend getaway, we also discuss some great places to stay right on the beach.
Ready? Let’s dive in!
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Things to Do in Turtle Beach, Florida
You’ve got options when it comes to spending time in Turtle Beach, Florida. Below we list just a few of the numerous activities you can enjoy.
Visit Turtle Beach
Of course, you won’t want to miss a trip to Turtle Beach, one of Florida’s sea turtle beaches (hence the name!). Here you can see loggerhead and green turtle hatcheries, as these species call their beach home.
And if you’re visiting Turtle Beach, Florida, when to see turtles may be a question that’s on your mind. Loggerhead and green turtles hatch during the months of May through October, which is the best time to see them.
In addition to checking out the beach’s reptilian wildlife, you can enjoy kayaking or canoeing off of the boat launch. Turtle Beach also has a pier you can fish from, as well as a picnic shelter and playground.
And if you want to spend a few nights in the area, what better way to do so than by camping? Enjoy spending time in the great outdoors by camping and then heading directly out to the beach access point. Just be sure to make reservations in advance, as there’s limited campground space.
Turtle Beach is open every day from 6AM to 10PM.
Shop at the Siesta Key Village
Once you’ve had your fill of beach time, get back to civilization and enjoy the area’s local shops. Siesta Key Village is full of local boutiques where you can find a special keepsake to remember your trip. Then when you get hungry, stop by one of the area’s numerous restaurants or bars.
You may even consider cooking yourself a homecooked meal after a visit to the Siesta Key Farmer’s Market. In addition to local produce, check out the beautiful work of local artisans at this bustling venue. The farmer’s market runs every Sunday from 8AM to 12PM.
Go Snorkeling near Point of Rocks
And after all that shopping, you may just be ready to head back to nature once again — funny how that works, isn’t it? Fortunately, Point of Rocks provides another great place to visit in Turtle Beach, Florida. In particular, this area is known for its excellent snorkeling, as it has particularly clear and calm waters.
Here you can see a wide variety of marine life, including fish and crustaceans. You may even be able to see a dolphin or two! While you’re snorkeling, keep your eyes peeled for Turtle Beach, Florida shark teeth, which people have been known to find along the shores.
If you’re interested in visiting Point of Rocks, head to Beach Access 12 and park there. Just be sure to get there as early as possible, as parking fills up fast and there isn’t much of it!
Places to Stay Near Turtle Beach in Florida
There are a few Turtle Beach resorts you won’t want to miss. First on our list is the Turtle Beach Resort and Inn, which provides visitors with the opportunity to choose between beautiful rooms in either cottages or the inn. This resort is close to the beach and every room has a private patio. Some of the rooms even have hot tubs, making this a great place to stay if you want to fill every minute of your day with relaxation.
Tropical Beach Resorts is another great to stay. At this resort, you can choose from various room sizes, including one-bedroom studios and specialty suites with their own private sundecks. This resort has two heated pools and onsite rentals, including chairs, paddleboards, and kayaks.
Those are just a few great Turtle Beach resorts. Siesta Key is also located nearby, which provides even more accommodation possibilities. And of course, if you can’t find anywhere there that you want to stay either, you can always check out Airbnb or VRBO for available listings.
Wrap-Up
Now that you have all the details on Turtle Beach, Florida, you’re ready to book your vacation! Whether you go scuba diving, hit all the shops, or simply relax on the beach, you’re going to have a great time visiting this island.
