Siesta Beach with Iconic White Sands Earn Spot on World’s 50 Best Beaches for 2025
Siesta Beach has once again earned international acclaim—this time landing at No. 42 on the 2025 list of the World’s 50 Best Beaches. The only beach in the United States to make the prestigious ranking, Siesta Beach stood out for its powdery white quartz sand, breathtaking scenery, and tranquil, swimmable waters along the Gulf of Mexico.
Compiled by the World’s 50 Best Beaches team—an international group of travel influencers and industry experts—the list highlights coastal destinations known for their natural beauty, wildlife, and peacefulness, steering travelers away from over-commercialized hotspots. According to co-founder Tine Holst, the goal is to “inspire travelers to go beyond the typical tourist destinations and discover truly unforgettable beach experiences.”
Siesta Key’s enduring charm lies in its sand—pure quartz, soft to the touch, and remarkably cool underfoot, even on Florida’s hottest days. The gentle slope of the beach, combined with calm, clear waters, makes it ideal for families, swimmers, and sunseekers alike. Its accessibility and year-round warm climate only add to the appeal.
This global recognition comes at a meaningful time. In 2024, Siesta Key endured a devastating one-two punch from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The storms damaged hundreds of homes and caused an estimated $187 million in lost revenue across Sarasota County, according to Suncoast Searchlight. Despite these challenges, Siesta Key’s recovery has been swift and resilient, with local leaders and residents determined to restore the island’s vibrancy.
The new honor joins an impressive list of accolades for Siesta Beach. In February 2025, TripAdvisor named it the No. 1 Best Beach in the U.S. and No. 4 in the world. Coastal expert Dr. Stephen Leatherman, known as “Dr. Beach,” has twice awarded Siesta Beach the top spot in his annual ranking of America’s Best Beaches. It was also featured in Time magazine’s “World’s 100 Greatest Places” in 2021.
Why Siesta Key Continues to Shine
Located just off the coast of Sarasota, Florida, Siesta Key is an eight-mile-long barrier island beloved for its laid-back vibe, charming village shops and restaurants, and outdoor activities ranging from kayaking and parasailing to sunset drum circles and dolphin-watching tours.
Siesta Key Village serves as the island’s hub, offering a walkable mix of seafood restaurants, boutique shopping, and live music. Visitors can hop on a free trolley to explore the island or walk the pedestrian-friendly paths that weave through tropical neighborhoods and beachfront parks.
Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, Siesta Key continues to offer an unmatched slice of paradise on Florida’s Gulf Coast—now officially recognized among the finest beach destinations on Earth.
Plan your visit to this award-winning gem and see why the world can’t stop talking about Siesta Key.
Photos from Deposit Photos