Dr. Beach aka Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, Director of Florida International University’s Laboratory for Coastal Research has announced the winner for America’s Best Beach 2011…….

Siesta Beach in Sarasota, Florida!

Siesta Beach has been a long time favorite for locals and visitors alike.
With it’s….

~99% pure quartz sand

~sparkling, clear shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico

~ and wide beaches

Is it any wonder that they won the honor of America’s Best Beach for 2011?

Siesta Key beach is hundreds of yards wide, attracting volleyball players, beachcombers and sun worshippers. Waves are normally measured in inches, and the beach gradually slopes into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, making it a safe area for children.

This beach park is complete with showers and bathrooms, snack bars, grills, picnic tables, shade trees and a large parking area (get there early, it fills up on summer weekends). Siesta Beach is a smokeless beach, earning extra points for cleanliness and environmental management.

While you’re there visit Siesta Village, north of Siesta beach. This mostly pedestrian village area is ideal for “People Watching” from sidewalk cafes. This adorable little village is filled with boutiques, shops, restaurants too!