Some view it as routine, some people view it as a special treat, and some people even pick up and move here; stepping onto one of Florida’s treasured shores is an act of self-love that we all deserve at one point or another. If it’s about time to treat yourself to a rejuvenating vacation, consider Siesta Key as the destination that will, with swift confidence, wipe the worry lines from your face and distract you with an array of enthralling activities.

Siesta Key sits upon the South Central Gulf Coast of the Sunshine State. It’s actually a barrier island just beyond Sarasota and has been called one of the world’s best beaches by a number of sources, including the individuals lucky enough to frequent this lovely lay of land. The white sand is the secret. It is famously soft and quartzy and practically begs visitors to kick off their shoes and be tickled in more ways than one. Add Crescent Beach to your list of stops and you’ll see what all the fuss is about.

Several more public beach areas will have you enjoying a different point of view every few hours or so. Turtle Beach is filled with seashells, Palmer Point Beach will let you escape the crowds, and the main Siesta Key Beach will allow for all the people-watching, beach volleyball-playing, and watersporting you can handle. Parasailing, wake boarding, swimming and sailing are just a few things that could possibly fill your days; use your imagination to come up with a few more.

The landscape of Siesta Key is more than just sand and sun. An abundance of wildlife beautifies the area as well, so keep your eyes open for plants and animals that are probably a little different than what you usually have the chance to see in your own neighborhood. From dolphins to egrets, wild rabbits to parrots, you’ll be surprised by the diversity and vitality of this region. Florida isn’t just golf courses and retired people, as you’ll see for yourself.

Not to say that everything you think you know about coastal Florida is a misconception; you will see lots of active older folks and you will be tempted to play a few rounds on one of the many fine golf courses. You will also find the environment to be freeing and non-judgmental; if you feel like lounging on the beach all day like a true bum, so be it. If you must have a taste of fresh seafood for breakfast, lunch and dinner, go right ahead. This is the time to please yourself, and no one here is going to say anything about it.

State parks, museums, miniature horse stables, and live dinner theatre are a few more interesting diversions, as are the typical shopping, dining, and spa-going that you may already be planning to engage in. Two bridges provide passageway to Florida’s mainland, but don’t be surprised if you end up staying put on the island. This geographic detail will immeasurably add to your vacation state of mind, as it’s easy to feel that you’ve escaped from the real world after physically leaving it behind.

There’s a trolley to take you from one end of the island to the other, so don’t worry about spending your vacation driving around. Also, to make things even easier, there are dozens of vacation rentals scattered about that have a better way of pampering you and your traveling companions better than most hotels. A unique property on the beach complete with lots of space, glorious views and bonus amenities will contribute to that altered, utterly relaxed state that you hope to attain, so at the very least check out the options available.

Between the pristine beaches, the endless activities and the array of Siesta Key Vacation Rentals, it’s easy to see why this is a worthwhile destination for anyone who needs to put life on hold for a bit and just soak in a little sun and fun. Don’t kid yourself any longer; it’s time to head to a better place.