With the holiday season in full swing, it’s time to start thinking about where you want to spend your Christmas. Some prefer a white, snowy Christmas, while others find this time of year to be the perfect excuse to pack their bags and head somewhere sunny. If you’re looking to escape the cold, consider gifting the family a vacation in Siesta Key!
Siesta Key experiences mild weather temperatures during the month of December, with average highs in the mid-70s and lows in the mid-50s. For the most part, the weather is very pleasant in December, but there can be an occasional breeze, so you’ll want to pack light layers just in case.
This time of year is a popular time to visit, as many vacationers are looking to escape the frigid temperatures in their home state. While it may be warm, the water temperatures can be a bit chillier than the summer months, ranging from 62°F and 70°F. While you may not be swimming in December, other water activities like kayaking, fishing, and boat charters are readily available.
There are several events throughout the month of December to get you in the holiday spirit! From boat parades to mesmerizing light displays, you’ll find events for all ages in and around Siesta Key. Our Siesta Key vacation rentals are conveniently located near all of the fun, festive events.
If you find yourself here during the weekend of Thanksgiving, Siesta Key is hosting its annual Light Up the Village & Holiday Parade on November 29th. Photos with Santa will be from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and the parade will kick off at 5:30 pm. Grab a spot at the Big Tiki, which has a great view of the parade! If you’re planning on photos with Santa, get to the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center early, as gift bags will be given to the first 250 kids.
Head over to Sarasota’s Selby Gardens for their annual holiday tradition, Lights in Bloom. The gardens light up with more than two million lights and offer plenty of festive photo opportunities, activities, and entertainment for the family. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade of Lights - Dec 13, 2025
Hang out along Bayfront Park and Marina Jack and watch eccentrically decorated boats coast by at the 39th annual Boat Parade of Lights in Sarasota. Celebrity judges will choose the best-decorated boats from both the private and corporate categories. Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy or book, which will be donated to Suncoast Charities for Children.
Enjoy the Beaches - Get out and admire the beauty of Siesta Key’s many world-class beaches. While you may not be swimming in the ocean in December, you can still beachcomb, build sandcastles, kayak or paddleboard, or simply grab a beach chair and just relax. Our beaches certainly beat the cold, frigid environment back home during this time of year.
Holiday Shopping - Find the perfect Christmas gifts while shopping in Siesta Key. Siesta Village is home to several charming boutiques, where you’ll find unique and memorable treasures.
Take the 20-30ish-minute drive from Siesta Key to Sarasota and shop at the Mall at University Town Center. With over 150 stores and restaurants, there are plenty of opportunities for you to shop for presents for loved ones. Want to take a break from the shopping? The Mall at UTC is hosting a few holiday events like Photos with Santa, Sounds of Seasons Holiday Performances, and Holiday Floral Workshops, so be sure to stop by for that!
Explore Nearby Sarasota - If you’re shopping at the Mall at UTC, make it a day trip and explore more of Sarasota. Hop on the Christmas Carol Trolley and enjoy a 75-minute family-friendly show filled with holiday lights, caroling down Main Street, and holiday stories and performances. Afterwards, grab dinner at Sarasota's favorites, including Salty Dog and Captain Curt’s.
Go on a Sunset Cruise with Siesta Dolphin Tours - One of the most magical experiences you can have on your Siesta Key vacation is a sunset cruise with Siesta Dolphin Tours. Admire the skies turning incredible colors as the sun goes down, and get a chance to spot dolphins in Siesta Key’s stunning natural habitat.
Give your family the gift of a Siesta Key vacation and book one of our Siesta Key vacation rentals for your holiday escape. From private homes with spacious layouts to beachfront condo living, Beachside Management is sure to have your dream vacation home.
Book directly on our website and skip the fees often associated with third-party websites! Need help planning your Christmas getaway? Contact us and speak to our team of vacation planning experts.
