One of the great perks of the Sea Shell’s prime location is that you don’t need a car to get around. It’s a truly walkable area with restaurants, bars, shopping, a grocer, and more right across the street.
However, there are plenty of free and inexpensive options for going further afield so you can explore more areas around the Key and beyond!
Sarasota County Public Transit
Sarasota County has a few great options for getting around Siesta Key and other popular tourist areas in and around Sarasota.
The free Route 77 Siesta Islander (formerly Siesta Key Breeze) trolley runs between Turtle Beach and Siesta Key Village daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and New Year’s Day, and 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. on New Year’s Eve.
Flag down the Siesta Key trolley on either side of Midnight Pass Rd. or wait at one of the many trolley stops along Midnight Pass. You can also track the trolley in real-time on the Breeze Rider app, available from Google Play and the App Store. The Route 77 trolley also takes riders to Downtown Sarasota. Drivers do not accept tips.
For more information visit Getting Around Siesta Key on the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce website or call 941-300-1553.
Private, Local Free Ride Services
The Frog Hop is a free ride service, similar to the trolley. With its larger capacity and party atmosphere, it’s a fun way to explore the entire Key, from the Village to Turtle Beach.
They operate 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The ride is free but tipping the driver is encouraged. Call 844-FROG-HOP (844-376-4467) or visit FrogHopSiesta.com.
Jonny’s Original Free Ride also services the Key from the Village to Turtle Beach and operates every day, year-round. Driver tips are encouraged. They can accommodate up to 6 passengers in their vans. Call 941-928-9200 or visit JonnysOriginalFreeride.com.
Golf Carts, Scooters, Scoot Coupes, Bicycles
Any of these options are fun ways to get around Siesta Key. Here are a few guidelines for renters:
For Golf Carts, Scooters, and Scoot Coupes. You must have a valid driver’s license to rent/drive a golf cart in Florida. Most rental facilities have minimum age requirements of 18 to 23. Most of these rental companies will deliver to your location.
Bicycles. A variety of bike rentals are available from various rental agencies on the Key, including:
- E-Bikes
- Beach Cruisers
- Geared Bikes
- Road Bikes
- Adult trikes
- Children’s bikes
- Child seats for bikes
- Kiddie karts
Most bike rental agencies deliver and include baskets, helmets, and locks. For a list of local bike, golf cart, and scooter rental agencies, go to our List of Rental Agencies page.
Nearby Airports
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ). This is the closest, most convenient airport to Siesta Key. Located at 6000 Airport Cir, Sarasota, FL 34243, it’s just 30 minutes away from the Sea Shell.
Tampa International Airport (TPA). Tampa airport is about 1 hour and 45 minutes away from Siesta Key, but many visitors like it because of its large selection of nonstop flights. It’s also a popular choice for those extending their vacation farther north.
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW). Flights into Ft. Myers tend to be less expensive than at other nearby airports. It’s also a pleasant, hour and a half drive.
Directions to the Sea Shell: From Interstate 75, exit at Clark Road (Rt. 72) and go west about 7 miles. Cross the drawbridge over the Intercoastal Waterway. You will turn left on Midnight Pass Road. The Sea Shell is the second complex on your right, just past the public beach parking and facing the Gulf of Mexico.
Want more fun suggestions? Visit our pages on Dining and Shopping and Things to Do in Siesta Key!