Siesta Key one of the Better Known Sarasota Florida Barrier Islands

Siesta Key one of the Better Known Sarasota Florida Barrier Islands

A good description of Siesta Key from the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce.

Sunny beaches with crystal-white, powdery sand that stretch for miles. Shops from the chic and elegant to the hip and funky, with all sorts of fashion, beach accessories and souvenirs. Restaurants where you can go to grab a quick breakfast or lunch in your flip-flops and sandy toes, or to relax in style over an extraordinary dinner.

Balmy breezes. Dolphins and manatees. Pelicans, egrets, osprey, seagulls and a variety of shorebirds. Walk the beach or stretch out in the sun. Play a game of tennis or volleyball, ride a bike, fly a kite…whatever you want to do. Our tropical climate makes every sort of outdoor activity available and enjoyable nearly year-round.Siesta Key has a full array of accommodations you can choose from: hotels and cottages perfect for a weekend getaway or fun vacation, condos and beach clubs you can rent for a week, a month, a season, or a year. And of course, there are always fantastic places to purchase for a full-time or second home.

We believe that once you discover how wonderful Siesta Key is, you'll want to be here as much as you possibly can. And we'll be here to welcome you!

Siesta Village north of the public beach is a mostly pedestrian village areaideal for “People Watching” from sidewalk cafes. Here, as on the south end, stores, shops, boutiques and restaurants thrive in the midst of commercial and residential activities. You'll also find a drug store and post office in this village area. The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce is conveniently located in Davidson’s Plaza – in the center of the village. Please stop by our visitor center office for maps, brochures and information.

There are two shopping/restaurant districts on Siesta Key: The Crescent Beach area, south of where Stickney Point Road connects to Midnight Pass Road, showcases boutiques shops and restaurants comfortably mixed in with attractions and commercial businesses. You’ll find a full service grocery store, nearby drug store and post office all convenient to surrounding accommodations and beach access areas.

From one end of the island to the other, you experience a vibrant islandlifestyle.
Wherever you go and whatever you do you’ll experience the warm welcome and island hospitality that brings people to Siesta Key and calls them back year after year.

Current data from My Florida Regional MLS for Siesta Key Real Estate:

Single Family ----------------------------------------Condos

Single Family homes for sale 189 ----------------Condos currently for sale 370

Priced from $269,000 to $15,000,000-----------$162,500 to $2,799,000

Single Family homes sale pending 39 -----------Condos currently sale pending 43

Priced from $243,500 to $2,799,000-------------$140,000 to $2,799,000

Single Family homes sold this year 130----------Condos sold this year 196

Sold Price from $180,000 to $2,350,000--------$140,553 to $3,150,000

The Herron Group 941-350-5035, Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron with RE/MAX Alliance Group would be happy to introduce you to the Beautiful Beaches of Siesta Key.

Take your shoes off and feel the sand between your toes. You will want to join us in Paradise.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the Dream

8150 Manasota Key Road / Sarasota's Barrier Islands / The Herron Group

A Wonderful Gulf to Bay Property that is the perfect family compound all newly turnkey furnished and ready for it's new owners. The main house and one of the guest houses are both Gulf Front with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. The Beach Guest house built in 1950 is really very charming and there is a lovely court yard in between the two. The main house built in 1993 has a large Gulf front family room and a vaulted wood ceiling in living and dinning room and marble floors. The Main house has a very large private sundeck over the Gulf Front family room and the heated tropical landscaped pool and spa are centrally located for easy access from all areas. There is a 20 X 28 Bonus room off the pool with an extra room plus large pool bath. The other guest studio which was built in 2004 is toward the front of the property. It is built above its own garage. Plus there is and over sized four car garage with work area and a loft. There is a beach walkover and a ramp to get your jet skies down to the beach. The Bay side has a nice boat dock with boat lift and two davits and great views across the intracoastal waterway. Reduced to $2,995,000.

Sarasota's Barrier Islands Produced for The Herron Group

Sarasota Florida's Barrier Islands of Siesta Key, Casey Key, Manasota Key, Bird Key, Lido and Longboat Key.

Siesta Key Formerly Sarasota Key

Siesta Key is an eight mile long striking Sarasota Barrier Island located off the Gulf Coast of Florida. Formerly called Sarasota Key, but a local personality “Harry Higel” gave the Key its present name Siesta Key.

Voted “One of the World’s Best Beaches” by the travel channel, Crescent Beach, Siesta Key’s main beach is very unique. If you notice the sand feels and looks different from the other beaches. That is because Siesta Key beach sand is made up of 99% genuine (quartz) powdery white and glistening. Most beaches are your typical crushed coral or shells. The quartz will allow the sand to remain cool even on a hot summer afternoon. This was confirmed in a study by Harvard University Geology Department.

A large portion of Siesta Key Real Estate offers stunning views of the beaches, the bay or the winding canals.

Current data from My Florida Regional MLS for Siesta Key Real Estate:

Single Family ----------------------------------------Condos

Single Family homes for sale 208 ----------------Condos currently for sale 364
Priced from $269,000 to $15,000,000-----------$135,700 to $2,799,000

Single Family homes sale pending 35 -----------Condos currently sale pending 42
Priced from $243,500 to $2,995,000-------------$150,000 to $4,250,000

Single Family homes sold this year 103----------Condos sold this year 142
Sold Price from $180,000 to $2,350,000---------$175,000 to $2,500,000

The Herron Group 941-350-5035, Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron with RE/MAX Alliance Group would be happy to introduce you to the Beautiful Beaches of Siesta Key.

Take your shoes off and feel the sand between your toes. You will want to join us in Paradise.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the dream

Sharky’s on the Pier on Island of Venice

Sharky’s on the Pier has the distinction of being the ultimate beachside restaurant with the most amazing sunset views. It is one of the only restaurants located directly on the beach in Sarasota County, allowing its crowds of visitors to enjoy a cold drink and tasty meal after a long, hot day in the sun.

Its unique beach location, Island-style Tiki bar, ample-seating outdoor deck, and access to the Venice Fishing Pier attracts crowds of locals and tourists year round – and they have great food too! Some of our lunch favorites are the Mahi Mahi tacos, Fresh Grouper sandwich, and Kobe and Shrimp burgers. If you are coming for dinner, try one of these classics: Macadamia Grouper and Coconut Shrimp, the Pineapple BBQ chicken, or the Seafood Aruba. The deck offers its own menu with scrumptious choices like The Beachcomber Quesadilla, the Boathouse Muffuletta sandwich, or the New England Lobster Roll. And what’s a tropical beachside restaurant without some frozen cocktails? The Mango Bango, Baitbucket Margarita, and Pina Colada are some of the tasty frozen concoctions served at the Tiki Bar.

A thatched tiki roof covers the stage where the sounds of reggae, salsa, and, of course, Jimmy Buffet play throughout the week and keep you dancing the night away.

When finished at the restaurant, walk off your meal along the 700-ft Venice Fishing Pier and watch the anglers reel in their catch. If you are lucky, you may even see a shark get hooked!

Sharky’s on the Pier is located on the Island of Venice, close to the Herron Group listing at the Belzea on Venice Beach.

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of the properties listed on any of the golf course communities or Sarasota's Barrier Island of Casey Key, Manasota Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key or Island of Venice. Call 941.350.5035.
Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the Dream

The Old Salty Dog "Sarasota’s Old Florida Fave”

Voted “Best Outdoor Dining” in Sarasota, the Old Salty Dog has been serving up their signature dishes for over 20 years. With its casual Key West-style atmosphere and British inspired cuisine, “The Dog” has become the epitome of the laid-back restaurant and pub in Sarasota.

There are two Sarasota Barrier Island locations, each offering outdoor dining and great food. The original “Dog” opened in the village of Siesta Key in 1986 and is a treasured part of village social life. With magnificent views of New Pass and Longboat Key, the second location opened on City Island, across from Mote Marine Aquarium, and is also accessible by boat.

Casual, outdoor dining in one reason both locations are popular spots for relaxing with a cold drink, but the great food is what keeps the crowds coming back. Their famous “Salty Dog” is a ¼-lb hot dog dipped in beer batter and deep fried. Yummy!! Other popular choices are the Traditional fish and chips, baby back ribs, peel and eat shrimp, and one of the best grouper sandwiches in town!

So kick back, relax, and enjoy a cold brew and great meal at the Old Salty Dog!

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of the properties listed on Sarasota’s Barrier Island of Longboat Key, Lido Key, Bird Key, Siesta Key, Casey Key, and Manasota Key Call 941.350.5035.Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the Dream

Myakka River State Park "A Nature Lover’s Paradise"

Encompassing 57 square miles of prairies, wetlands, and woodlands, Myakka River State Park is one of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks. Located just 9-miles east of Sarasota and her Barrier Islands of Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Casey Key and Manasota Key, the park is a favorite for hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing, and viewing Florida’s abundant wildlife.

Once a portion of the estate holdings of Bertha Palmer, her family donated the park to the state in the early 1900’s and named after the Myakka River, the shallow, winding river that flows through 14 miles of the park. Designated as one of Florida’s “Wild and Scenic Rivers” in 1985, the Myakka River is a popular destination for freshwater fishing and canoeing and is home is one of Florida’s largest alligator populations.

Activities abound in the park: Hike along 39-miles of trails, canoe or kayak on the Myakka River or on its lakes, bike along the roads, bird watch along the Birdwalk, take a leisure ride on the Air Boat, ride your own horse along the backcountry horse trails, picnic with the family in the designated picnic areas, or walk through the treetops on the Canopy Walkway.

Myakka River State Park is noted for its diverse wildlife. Herons, ibises, roseate spoonbill, bald eagles, osprey, meadowlark, bobwhite, hawks, ducks, and warblers bring bird watchers from near and far. Alligators, turtles, and gopher tortoises are just a few of the many species of reptiles and amphibians. Some of the many fish identified in the rivers and lakes are Spotted Gar, Longnose Gar, Mudfish, Tarpon, American Eel, Yellow Cat, Snook, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, and Striped Mullet. Native flora provides a verdant sea as mossy live oaks, sabal palms, and mangrove trees blanket the park.

As an area native, recent transplant, or Florida visitor, the picturesque views of Myakka River State Park are a must-see on anyone’s to-do list.

Myakka State Park is located on State Road 72 is just a 14 mile drive from Siesta Key.
Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of the properties listed any of Sarasota’s Barrier Islands. Call 941.350.5035.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the Dream

"The Broken Egg Restaurant" A Sarasota Breakfast Tradition

A tradition on Sarasota’s Barrier Island of Siesta Key since 1984, the Broken Egg Restaurant serves up one the best breakfasts in town. A second location in Lakewood Ranch allows for more locals and area visitors to experience the delicious dishes of the Broken Egg.

A local favorite (just ask sportscaster and Lakewood Ranch resident, Dick Vitale, who frequents the restaurant), The Broken Egg is known for their scrumptious egg creations, omelettes, pancakes, fresh juices, and homemade bakery selections. Both locations offer lunch and dinner along with their famous breakfasts and patio dining for you to enjoy. Visit the Art Gallery and Gift Shop at the Siesta Key location and pick up a Dick Vitale bobblehead!

Start your day at the beach on Siesta Key or your round of golf at Lakewood Ranch with a fabulous breakfast at the Broken Egg.

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of the golf course properties at Lakewood Ranch or any of the homes or condos on Sarasota’s Barrier Islands of Siesta Key, Casey Key, Manasota Key, Bird Key and Lido or Longboat Key. Call Nick at 941.350.5035.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the Dream

Coasters Restaurant Casual dining with a remarkable view

Located amidst the New England-inspired architecture of the Boatyard Shops on the mainland side of the Stickney Point Bridge to Siesta Key, Coasters on the Water offers a unique waterfront dining experience. The restaurant and its expansive outdoor deck overlook the Intracoastal Waterway affording outstanding views of passing boats and water sports enthusiasts.

No need to for fancy dress here, just come as you are – with shirt and shoes, of course.
This casual atmosphere is reflected in the friendly, laid-back attitude of the staff as well as in the indoor Tiki Bar on the second floor, which offers a daily Happy Hour from 3 – 7 pm. Only about a 15 minute drive from Casey Key, we love to come here to enjoy a great meal while taking in the amazing views.

Live music is on hand most evenings, getting the crowd swinging and dancing. We have been lucky enough to catch the rock and soul show of the The Fabulous Ricky and Franky who have opened for such national acts as The Beach Boys and Gary Puckett & the Union Gap.

Coasters is one of Sarasota’s “gems on the water” that every local and tourist should experience. But be sure to come early during season, the outdoor deck fills up fast!


Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of the properties listed on Sarasota Barrier Island's of Siesta Key, Casey Key, Manasota Key, Lido Key, Longboat or Bird Key . Call 941.350.5035.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the Dream

Siesta Properties Inc. subdivision know as the Sanderling Club

Imagine a lifestyle of endless sunshine and swaying palm trees. Welcome to Siesta Key one of Sarasota, Florida’s Barrier Islands. Almost perfect year round weather, nationally ranked beaches and spectacular sunsets are only a part of the attraction.

What ever your lifestyle, or passion Sarasota, Florida’s Barrier Islands offer endless reasons to call this perfect piece of paradise home.

Toward the South end of Siesta Key on Midnight Pass Road just pass Crescent Beach and Point of Rocks and North of Turtle Beach is the Sanderling Club.

It is one of the older areas of Siesta Key founded after the first modern settlers came to Siesta Key. It is the only twenty-four hour guard gated community on Siesta Key. All the property owners of the Siesta Properties Inc. belong to the Sanderling Club which is required when they purchase a home here.

As part of the Sanderling Club you have several homes on the Gulf of Mexico with white powdery sand beaches and some run back to Heron Lagoon. The homes on Heron Lagoon have docks where they can launch a canoe or kayak. There are a few homes not on the water and there are some on the Bay side of Midnight Pass Road on the boat basin and Bay.

As part of the membership you have all types of recreational choices of boat slips, boating, tennis courts deeded Gulf access and there are several beach front cabanas. These cabanas were designed by one of the Sarasota School of Architecture founders Paul Rudolph.

At present there are seven active listings in the Sanderling Club, priced from $875,000 up to $9,995,000. There is one sale pending and there has been one sold so far this year.

The Herron Group, Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron with RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-350-5035 would be glad to show you any of these Sanderling Club properties or any other Sarasota Barrier Island homes.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the Dream

Siesta Key Formerly Sarasota Key

Siesta Key is an eight mile long striking Sarasota Barrier Island located off the Gulf Coast of Florida. Formerly called Sarasota Key, but a local personality “Harry Higel” gave the Key its present name Siesta Key.

Voted “One of the World’s Best Beaches” by the travel channel, Crescent Beach, Siesta Key’s main beach is very unique. If you notice the sand feels and looks different from the other beaches. That is because Siesta Key beach sand is made up of 99% genuine (quartz) powdery white and glistening. Most beaches are your typical crushed coral or shells. The quartz will allow the sand to remain cool even on a hot summer afternoon. This was confirmed in a study by Harvard University Geology Department.

A large portion of Siesta Key Real Estate offers stunning views of the beaches, the bay or the winding canals.

Current data from Mid Florida Regional MLS for Siesta Key Real Estate:

Single Family homes for sale 235 ----------------Condos currently for sale 411
Single Family homes sale pending 49 -----------Condos currently sale pending 42
Single Family homes sold this year 44---------- Condos sold this year 54

The Herron Group 941-350-5035, Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron with RE/MAX Alliance Group would be happy to introduce you to the Beautiful Beaches of Siesta Key.

Take your shoes off and feel the sand between your toes. You will want to join us in Paradise.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the dream

The Art of Being Frugal

We are all budget conscious these days and every week there are totally free events for you and your family. Yes happening right here in Sarasota and on the Barrier Islands. Saturday mornings there is a great Farmers Market Downtown where you can stroll around and check out all the different vendor’s merchandise, people watch, or just bring your dog and walk around. On Sundays you can go to the one on Siesta Key in the Village.

This weekend was also the Avenida de Colores (Avenue of Colors) Chalk Festival. Several artists from around the country spent the weekend making masterpieces using pastel chalk on the streets of Burns Square. Yes on the pavement and when the streets reopen Sunday night motorist will be driving over the temporary masterpieces.

While on Siesta Key as well as on any of Sarasota’s Barrier Islands, Manasota Key, Casey Key, Longboat key or Lido Key the beaches offer hours of free fun and relaxation. Take a splash in the aqua blue gulf waters, build sandcastles, search for shells, or take a leisurely stroll. All to enjoy for free and it is Paradise at its best.

Maybe the time is right now for you to buy a piece of Paradise, while the prices are the best they have been in years. Now you can be living your dream of a Sarasota waterfront home.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the Dream with the Herron Group, Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron, RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-350-5035. Nick and Kathleen would be glad to show you your dream home.

What are you waiting for? Don’t let the opportunity pass you by.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine…Live the Dream

Siesta Key Real Estate, Restaurants, and Beaches

Siesta Key is home to the small and vibrant Siesta Key Village, a pedestrian friendly center where shopping, dining, and enjoying Florida are top on the agenda. Several neighborhoods dot this small island, clustered around the village or scattered from end to end. Waterfront homes, bay front estates, mid-rise condominiums, small Florida cottages, and a mixture of old and new can be found throughout this charming barrier island.

The Herron Group, Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron attended the Siesta Luxury Broker Tour last night. We were actually previewing several of the listings on Siesta Key for a couple of Buyer clients that we have coming in to Sarasota next week. They are looking for properties on the different Barrier Islands, Siesta Key, Casey Key, and Manasota Key.

According to the Mid Florida MLS today there are approximately 265 single family homes for sale on Siesta Key and 445 condos on Siesta Key for sale. There are 20 condos and 39 single family homes on Siesta Key that are currently under contract to sale and 26 single family homes and 46 condos on Siesta Key that have sold this year.

After looking at several of the properties we decided to stop in at The Old Salty Dog (one of Kathleen’s favorites) from when she was just coming to Siesta Key on vacations. It first opened on Siesta key in 1986. I had my usual Traditional English Fish and Chips. The outside dinning is available and makes it a nice experience where you can people watch and even bring your dog (pet friendly).

It is also a WI-FI Hot Spot so you can use your lap top computer. We find that useful when we are working with clients on Siesta Key.

Here is a little more information on Siesta Key.

Siesta Key Restaurants
Siesta Village is home to many delightful restaurants; depending on our mood and appetite. Here are a few favorites.

The Broken Egg. A favorite of basketball announcer Dick Vitale, the Broken Egg is a perfect way to start the day. The walls double as an art gallery, where local art is displayed and sold. Don’t leave without trying the Incredible Hash Browns.

Ophelia’s on the Bay. 17 years of waterfront dining—they’re doing something right. Ophelia’s chefs use locally grown fresh foods and offers a blend of cuisines; Zagats has rated it “extraordinary” and it truly is. In fact, take your pick of adjectives and Ophelia’s delivers: fantastic, romantic, outstanding, fabulous…this is Siesta Key dining!

Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB). Casual…completely. Very young. Unwind with live music and Island fare; great place to eat outside and enjoy Siesta Village. Sports bar atmosphere.

The Lobster Pot. A New England theme; award winning seafood. Dine in or outside; really worth the wait on a crowded night.

Captain Curt’s Crab and Oyster Bar. Super casual seafood dining on Old Stickney Point Road; great place to take the grandkids—who cares if they make a mess on a picnic table?

Big Olaf Creamery. No matter how full you are, there’s always room for ice cream. Big Olaf’s is a tradition on Siesta Key; sit outside and enjoy.

Siesta Key Beaches
Say “Siesta Key” and the immediate word association is best beaches! Siesta Key beaches are nearly pure quartz sand and are renowned by travel experts and beach lovers the world over. Miles of white powder stretch along the Gulf of Mexico, treating toes to an uncommon luxury. Siesta’s three main beaches are Siesta Public Beach, home to the weekly drum circle heard every Sunday near sunset; Crescent Beach, the more secluded and serene neighbor just south of the public beach; and Turtle Beach, a more playful beach perched on the southern tip of Siesta.

For more information on Siesta Key, call 800-789-6580 or email Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group. This rare team is ready to help you find the perfect place to call home on Florida’s west coast and Sarasota’s barrier islands including Siesta Key, Casey Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key, and anywhere in between!

Siesta Key Luxury Broker Tour Thursday April 16

The following homes will be open from 4PM to 7PM today; with wine and Hors d’ oeuvres being served at each property.

#1. 163 Siesta Drive Priced at $2,695,000 MLS# A3898682
#2. 3910 Solymar Drive Priced at $3,395,000 MLS# A37413
#3. 867 Siesta Key Circle Priced at $5,975,000 MLS# A3903389
#4. 718 Siesta Key Circle Priced at $1,800,000 MLS# A3901811
#5. 4929 Higel Avenue Priced at $3,250,000 MLS# A389180
#6. 501 Beach Road, Unit B Priced at $2,599,000 MLS# A3900245
#7. 7147 Point of Rocks Circle Priced at $1,225,000 MLS# A3898236
#8. 8015 Midnight Pass Road Priced at $1,395,000 MLS# A3896552
#9. 1280 Tree Bay Lane Priced at $1,100,000 MLS# A386289
#10. 1162 Horizon View Drive Priced at $3,300,000 MLS# A3904754
#11. 9211 Blind Pass Road Priced at $2,400,000 MLS# A378326
#12. 9247 Blind Pass Road Priced at $2,599,000 MLS# A352980

The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group ,Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron plan to attend the Siesta Key tour. If you would be interested in any of these Siesta Key homes or condos, please contact us and we would be glad to show you any of these or any other homes or condo on Siesta Key.

South Beach-style street party comes to Sarasota

Sarasota and her islands—we live in such a classy, upscale town and every now and then a party comes along that perfectly highlights the strengths of what Sarasota has to offer. We’re anticipating one classy party on March 21 at the second annual Chillounge Night. This is a street party full of energy, with South Beach style music, dancing, and fine food and drinks. This unique high season event completely transforms our beautiful downtown Art District and historic Palm Avenue into an outdoor lounge.

Chillounge Night is sponsored by Cointreau, Audi, Michelob, Café L ‘Europe, and many other distinguished regional and national sponsors. One of the delights of this beautiful night on the town is that everyone has a great time while benefiting the United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee, Wendy Mann Resnick – Executive Director.

This year’s Chillounge Night will prove to be exotic and chic, with a Brazilian Samba parade, a Kelietza, Juno and Jove fashion show presented by Piper Heidsieck, tango performance by Los Listos Lotus Fire, smatterings of opera and smooth jazz, and 40 inviting lounge areas set up with tropical outdoor daybeds and luxury lounge seating. Café L ‘Europe is sponsoring the VIP lounge, where Nick and Kathleen plan to mix and mingle. VIP tickets include complimentary drinks, food, and Cigars at the Maduro Cigar Lounge.

When you decide to call Sarasota home—whether you live on Casey Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, St. Armand’s, Longboat Key, or in any of the spectacular golf course homes that surround us, you simply must come out and play when events like these come along. Hope to see you there!

Just visiting? When you’re ready to move here permanently, give Nick and Kathleen Herron a call. After 20 years in the Sarasota real estate business, The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group is perfectly suited to guide you to just the right address among Sarasota’s prestigious waterfront homes and luxury golf course communities. Call 800-789-6580 or email Nick Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group. We’d love to schedule an afternoon on the Wild Welshman, our vintage 33 foot boat and the perfect accomplice to viewing waterfront properties in style.

Siesta Key…and marching to the beat of a different drum

Witnessing a sunset overlooking the water is an experience in its own right. But there’s something incredibly special about watching the sun go down to the beat of a hundred drums.

Welcome to Siesta Key beach on any Sunday night—and its organic drum circle.

A drum circle can be any group of people playing percussion in a circle with others from the community. The main objective is to share rhythm together, and there is no leader, no form, no rules. People just show up, bringing along drums or tambourines of various shapes and sizes. Some come to watch and listen; others to participate; and some to dance to the earthly rhythms. Nobody is in charge of starting or ending, yet the drum circle traditionally starts about an hour before sunset. For some it is a spiritual experience, and to others it is strictly entertainment. No matter your intention, visiting Siesta Key’s weekly drum circle adds to the richness of the experience of living or visiting Siesta Key on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Some people march to the beat of a different drum—and those are the kind of people that make life interesting. We’ve met so many fascinating people over the years that we have worked in Sarasota real estate. We’ve enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life who have truly achieved success—people who have developed incredible businesses; those who have achieved creative success as authors and artists; and those who have realized their dreams by living in one of the most beautiful waterfront communities in the world—Siesta Key.

Nick and Kathleen Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group are in tune with the rhythm of real estate in the greater Sarasota area—Casey Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key, and all of the communities surrounding the barrier islands on Florida’s west coast.

Speaking of drums—you can’t BEAT the price on 708 Casey Key Road this is the least expensive Bay front property on Casey Key. New boat dock and wonderful Gulf beach easement. The home has three bedrooms one bath and a half up stairs and a two bedrooms, one bath non-conforming apartment downstairs, and a three car garage. Reduced to $1,175,000.

Tap to the beat at the beach, bay, or back nine—call 800-789-6580 or email Nick Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group .

Siesta Key Farmers Market—one more reason why we call this area home.

There’s something fresh and revitalizing about a farmer’s market. Maybe it’s the colors—everywhere you turn, you see vibrant greens, a rainbow of fresh-cut flowers, and the rich browns of specialty coffees and hearty breads.

Perhaps it’s the people-watching. It’s entertaining, actually, to see the all-natural, sun-browned hippy over there, or the grandmother trying to reign in the busy toddler, or the spry lady with the red hat pushing a doggy stroller. It’s like a garden of people in the farmer’s market.

Of course, it’s also the vendors. The muscled guy hauling another crate of organic watermelons. Or the talented musician strumming a guitar and selling his latest CDs.

People, colors, vendors, food! Ahh, the sights and sounds and smells are wonderful. And the Siesta Key farmer’s market in the Davidson Plaza in Siesta Key village tops any other for three reasons: location, location, location! Where else can you start your market morning with a walk on the beach? Every Sunday from 8 to noon, vendors sell, visitors shop, residents smile, dogs wag, children laugh, and organic abounds. Can’t beat it.

The Siesta Key farmer’s market is one more reason (and we have a lot of them) why we love this area. Just last week as we cruised down the Intracoastal Waterway off of Casey Key, we had one of those moments. You know, the kind of moment when you realize—for the hundredth time—that you live here. Even after 20+ years, we still get those moments, especially when nature is showing off. The warm sun, a pair of egrets diving for fish, the warm Florida breeze, a view of Sarasota’s barrier islands…it just doesn’t get any better.

If you’re ready to have one of those moments—when you realize, “we live here!”—call or email Nick Herron or Kathleen Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group for more information. We specialize in beach-to-bay waterfront properties in Siesta Key, Casey Key, Nokomis, Sarasota, Longboat Key, Lido Key, and all of the surrounding areas. Prefer a golf course home? We’ll show you some incredible values. Call Nick or Kathleen today at 800-789-6580 or email Nick Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group for more information.

See you at the market!

Old-World Charm—Right Here in Sarasota

In 1930, ten acres of a swampy Sarasota banana grove were purchased by a man named David Lindsay, who hoped to create a botanical garden. With help from a friend who owned a plant nursery, he began transforming the land. Together they planted thousands of tropical plants and dug out waterways, creating an incredible landscape. People started showing up to walk through the gardens, and David began charging 10 cents admission.

In 1940, Sarasota Jungle Gardens was officially opened to the public and has been a popular attraction ever since. Now a home to exotic animals, the park features a tropical bird show, reptile show, the chance to mingle among bright pink flamingos, and so much more. If you’ve never been, you’ve got to make the time. Jungle Gardens is particularly popular for the ages on either end of the human spectrum—young children who haven’t been tainted by visits to bigger and flashier parks and older folks who take the time to smell the flowers. Its old-Florida charm is a rare and treasured experience. You can’t even put Jungle Gardens and other amusement parks in the same sentence—this place has absolutely nothing in common with the polished and crowded likes of Busch Gardens or Disney.

The old-world delight of Sarasota Jungle Gardens is just one of the reasons our area is such a delight. If you live in Sarasota, Osprey, Venice, Casey Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key, or Longboat Key, treat yourself to some of the unique natural beauty of our town. You can never get enough of walking the pristine beaches, but if you add in visits to places like Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota Jungle Gardens, and the Ringling Museum and grounds, you’ll fall in love with Sarasota and her islands all over again.

Visitors, are you ready to relocate? Call Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group. This rare team is ready to help you find the perfect place to call home on Florida’s west coast and Sarasota’s barrier islands including Siesta Key, Casey Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key, and anywhere in between!

Sandhill cranes, herons…and the Herron Group

“This is birding season, when some birds flock to West Florida for the winter and many more will pass through, in coming months, on their way to their summer haunts,” wrote Cathy Zollo of the Sarasota Herald Tribune in a recent article. “Along with them come the bird lovers, who must eat and stay in hotels and spend money with the region's local businesses. Florida is second only to California in the revenue it collects from the bird-loving public.”

I wonder how many bird lovers came to vacation in Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Casey Key, and the rest of the greater Sarasota area—and ended up buying homes here?

I’d like to take a roll call of all of the homeowners who have arrived in the last ten years. I can imagine filling an auditorium with them and having them raise their hands or shout “here!” when they hear their category. (I wonder if we can borrow the Van Wezel?) Anyway, It might sound something like this:

“Ahem…attention please. We will now take roll. Please respond with a loud “here!” when you hear your category.”

1. Golfers. Here! Here! Here! (You get the idea.)
2. Beach lovers. Here!
3. Tired-of-shoveling-snow-ers. Here! (Note: this is an imaginary roll call so we can use imaginary words.)
4. Suntanners. Here!
5. World travelers who have been everywhere and realize there’s no place like Siesta Key and Sarasota. Here!
6. Birders. Here! Here!

By the way, according to the article, you bird watchers really are called “birders.” Enjoy your Sarasota bird season!

Speaking of birds, I overheard in my gym this morning that when humans feed sandhill cranes, the birds become overly aggressive. The storyteller said that one gentlemen—on the golf course—was severely bitten on his backside by a hungry (but disappointed) bird! The birds were hovering about and the man waved them away, but when he turned his back and bent over toward his golf ball…ouch! It’s never a good idea to feed the wildlife.

While we’re on the subject, I looked up characteristics of the heron—since we are The Herron Group, after all. I was pleased at some of our similarities. Here goes:

1. Water, water, everywhere.

The heron: “The white form of the Great Blue Heron, known as the "great white heron," is found nearly exclusively in shallow marine waters along the coast of southern Florida, the Yucatan Peninsula, and in the Caribbean.”*

The Herron Group: We specialize in distinctive waterfront properties in Sarasota, Florida and adjacent barrier island communities including Sarasota, Casey Key, Siesta Key, Manasota Key, Nokomis, Osprey, Venice, Englewood, Bradenton, Longboat Key, Lido Key & St. Armands, and Bird Key.

2. Adaptable to its environment.

The heron: “Although the Great Blue Heron eats primarily fish, it is adaptable and willing to eat other animals as well.”*

The Herron Group: With over 20 years experience in Sarasota and Siesta Key area real estate, we’ve adapted to shifting winds and subtle or drastic changes in the real estate markets. We can help you navigate the waters of today’s unusual circumstances.

3. Specializes in nest-building.

The heron: “Nests in colonies, sometimes as lone pair. Nest a large platform of sticks, lined with pine needles, moss, reeds, dry grass, or twigs. Placed high in trees, occasionally on ground.”*

The Herron Group: Buying a home is a lot like building a nest. The right tree—or neighborhood—makes all the difference in the world. Choosing the right Realtor® is the first step, and Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group are poised to help you find just the right home on Florida’s west coast and Sarasota’s barrier islands of Siesta Key, Casey Key, Lido Key, and Longboat Key.


*Source: The Cornell Lab of Ornithology