Publication says Siesta ‘made for beach bums’
“Cue the celebrations,” as Hunter Carpenter, director of community relations and partnership for Visit Sarasota County, put the news this week: Siesta Key has been named the No. 1 Best Beach in the U.S. in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Vacations rankings.
In announcing the recognition, a Visit Sarasota County news release called Siesta one of the county’s “most iconic beach destinations.”
“The recognition underscores Siesta Key’s enduring appeal for travelers drawn to powdery white sand, clear Gulf waters and a beach experience that balances natural beauty with a relaxed coastal atmosphere,” the release adds.
Anna Maria Island was No. 3 on the list, while Sanibel Island was No. 6. In its rankings, the U.S. News & World Report says of Siesta Beach, “With 8 miles of white sand to spread out on, this Florida barrier island off the coast of Sarasota was made for beach bums. Enjoy Siesta Key’s laid-back atmosphere while relaxing on Crescent Beach, a secluded stretch of sand with an area for snorkeling. For more excitement, check out Siesta Beach, which boasts tennis and volleyball courts, a playground and concessions. Or, head to Turtle Beach for premier beachcombing opportunities. Travelers can avoid costly parking fees by utilizing Siesta Key’s free trolley service, which runs seven days a week.”
U.S. News adds, “Even in the heat of the summer, the sand stays cool because of its composition: 99% pure quartz. Aside from the long stretch of wide beaches, Siesta Key enjoys myriad dining options and plenty of outdoor activities, and is within close proximity to all of the arts and culture for which nearby Sarasota is known.”
In the Visit Sarasota County news release, Erin Duggan, president and CEO of the organization — which handles tourism and sports marketing for the county — wrote, “We are thrilled to see Siesta Key recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 1 Best Beach in the U.S.”
She added, “This honor is a meaningful reflection of the extraordinary beach experience visitors find here in Sarasota County. From the unmatched beauty of Siesta Key to our welcoming communities, vibrant arts scene and diverse culinary offerings, Sarasota County offers travelers far more than a day at the beach — it offers a destination worth discovering again and again.”
“Siesta Key’s soft, pristine sand and relaxed island atmosphere make it a top choice for a beach vacation,” said Elizabeth Von Tersch, senior travel editor for U.S. News, in the release. “Plus, all types of visitors can find a beach experience that suits their needs, from the volleyball courts at amenity-packed Siesta Beach to the peaceful sunsets at Crescent Beach.”
The Visit Sarasota County release notes, “U.S. News & World Report’s Best Vacations rankings spotlight top destinations across a range of travel categories. Editors evaluated more than 1,500 destinations using a variety of factors, with user voting also playing a role in individual ranking lists.”
Further, the release points out, “Siesta Key has drawn national attention in recent years for its standout shoreline and visitor experience, including other major beach recognitions that have reinforced Sarasota County’s position as a premier coastal destination.”
In February 2025, TripAdvisor named Siesta the No. 1 beach in the United States as part of the company’s annual Travelers’ Choice Awards program. TripAdvisor also listed Siesta as the No. 4 beach in the world.
In 2023, Siesta was No. 2 on TripAdvisor’s U.S. list, while it was ranked No. 3 in 2024.
This year, Siesta ended up at No. 6 in TripAdvisor’s U.S. rankings, though it earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5, based on 8,119 reviews, the company reported.
The No. 1 beach in the U.S. this year, TripAdvisor noted, was La Jolla Cove in San Diego. Clearwater Beach was No. 2.