Your arrival at the resort can have a positive impact on the community and the local businesses in need of support. Ask a resort associate about other ways you can help while visiting.

Make the most of the waterways around Sarasota and Siesta Key by exploring mangrove tunnels, relaxing on postcard-perfect sandbars, or reeling in the big one in the Gulf of Mexico.

Whether you head out yourself or choose a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tour, adventure awaits in and around Sarasota Bay. Kayaking SRQ offers guided tours through maze-like mangrove tunnels busy with crabs and starfish during two-hour trips from South Lido Key. You also can visit Otter Key to scout for dolphins and manatees.

From Siesta Key, you can travel the roughly 3-mile route through the Jim Neville Marine Preserve, home to countless coastal birds and mangrove forests. You'll often spot manatees and dolphins in the shallow waters here, too.

For a fun day on the water, there's nothing quite like chartering a boat for you and your crew.

With an outfitter like Kokomo Charters, set out from Siesta Key on daytime sightseeing and sunset charters aboard luxury Sea Ray^® motorboats. Call ahead to book. Charters are often scheduled according to wind, currents, and tides in an effort to maximize their guests’ stops at the secluded anchorages and scenic sandbars.

Most charters include aerial drone footage of your day, snacks, and nonalcoholic drinks. And be sure to look back at the boat's wake as you zip across the Gulf — dolphins are often seen jumping there.

If you're looking for a serious shot at reeling-in a trophy fish (and dinner for a crowd), Gulf Coast Offshore Ventures is a favorite option among in-the-know locals.

Charters depart from Siesta Key aboard a 42-foot catamaran and motor offshore to waters more than 150 feet deep, setting the rods to attract the likes of amberjack, cobia, blackfin tuna, and mahi.

On the way back to the docks, the crew fillets your catch. Once you've arrived back at The Residences on Siesta Key, your in-residence chef's kitchen is the perfect spot to prepare your fresh fish and recount your day on the water. During your stay, you can also enjoy fresh continental breakfast at Beachview Terrace or light bites at Cabana Cantina near the pool.

Amenities 

• Inspired Activities & Experiences 
• Refresh in the sparkling pool 
• Unwind in the hot tub with waterfall 
• Relax in the shade in the comfort of a poolside cabana
• Explore the area by bike or kayak 
• Soothe muscles with massage services, by appointment only** 
• Cook out on the grills and use the fire pit to make s’mores 
• Play table tennis, pool table, and shuffleboard at Waterfall Terrace

Dining Options 

• Cabana Cantina offers poolside cuisine,** and there’s also a continental breakfast each morning from 7 to 10 AM.

Fun Facts 
Siesta Key is unique for its beaches — 99% of the pure white sand is quartz. For those who love barefoot walks on the beach, the sand is exceptionally soft, pleasantly squeaky, and refreshingly cool all year round.

Hyatt Vacation Club^® writer Heidi Ekey contributed to this article.
 

* No inquiry has been made into the off-site locations, activities, services, or events, or the qualifications, safety, or quality of the off-site locations, activities, services, or events, and WHV Resort Group, Inc. and HV Global Group, Inc. (collectively, “HVC”) make no warranty, express or implied, as to the condition, capacity, performance, or any other aspect of such off-site locations, activities, events, or service providers listed herein. Do not consider this an endorsement of or recommendation for any of the off-site locations, activities, services, events, or providers. Neither WHV Resort Group, Inc. nor HV Global Group, Inc. assumes liability for attendance at, or visits to, any off-site locations, or the products, activities, or services furnished by independent service providers. Additional fees and costs may apply. Activities and events are subject to change. Some activities or events may require the participant to be in good health and have a certain level of skill.

** This outlet is operated by a third party and is not owned or operated by HV Global Group, Inc., WHV Resort Group, Inc., or their affiliates.