Siesta Key Water Sports: Jet Skis, Parasailing, and Boat Rentals Guide
Siesta Key water sports range from jet ski rentals and parasailing to pontoon boat charters and banana boat rides, all launching within a few miles of the island’s beaches. Three established outfitters, Siesta Key Watersports, CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, and Siesta Key Aqua Adventures, run the bulk of the rentals and tours, so most first time visitors only need to decide which activity fits their day rather than hunt for a reputable operator.
This guide covers where to rent a jet ski, what parasailing on Siesta Key costs and how high you fly, where to rent a boat, which tours and charters are worth booking, and what to know before you reserve. Whether you are staying for a weekend or a full week at one of our vacation rental properties, you can have gear reserved before you ever unpack.
Where Can You Rent a Jet Ski on Siesta Key?
Siesta Key Watersports runs a fleet of new Yamaha VX110 jet skis from its Sarasota location at 5253 South Tamiami Trail. Rentals run in 1, 2, 3, and 4 hour blocks or a full day, and each rental includes fuel, a life jacket, and a wetsuit at no extra charge.
Each jet ski seats up to three riders with a combined weight limit of 450 pounds. The shop is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and riders who book before noon get a discount on the rental rate.
Florida law requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, to complete a boater safety course before operating a personal watercraft. Siesta Key Watersports handles this on site with a short Safe Boaters test, so you do not need to arrive with a certification in hand.
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, operating on Siesta Key since 1959, also rents jet skis from its Stickney Point Road location. Both shops accept online reservations, and reserving ahead is worth it during the December through April peak season when walk up availability gets tight.
What Does Parasailing on Siesta Key Cost and How High Do You Fly?
Parasailing trips with Siesta Key Watersports lift riders up to 1,000 feet above the Gulf, according to Must Do Visitor Guides. Up to three people can ride together on the same line, and the company reports a clean safety record going back more than 28 years.
No prior experience is required, and USCG certified captains operate every trip. Riders who book a premium parasail trip before 11 a.m. receive a discount on the standard rate.
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters also offers parasailing from its Siesta Key location if Siesta Key Watersports is fully booked. Both operators recommend calling ahead on breezy days, since parasailing is the first activity to pause when wind conditions turn unfavorable.
Where Can You Rent a Boat on Siesta Key?
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters rents a fleet of pontoons, deck boats, center consoles, and runabouts from its location near the Stickney Point Bridge. According to Visit Sarasota County, half day rentals of 4 hours run from $169 to $339 depending on the boat, and full day rentals of 9 hours, typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., run from $279 to $449.
Siesta Key Watersports rents a Godfrey Sweetwater pontoon that seats up to 11 passengers and comes equipped with a 150 horsepower motor, GPS, and a VHF radio. Rentals run from 4 to 10 hours, and a USCG licensed captain can be arranged for guests who would rather not drive the boat themselves.
Both companies restrict self operated rentals to the Gulf of Mexico side of the island rather than open ocean routes. If you would rather explore the calmer bay side by paddle instead of by motor, our Siesta Key kayaking guide covers launch points and outfitters for that side of the island.
What Boat Tours and Charters Can You Book on Siesta Key?
Siesta Key Watersports runs a nightly sunset and dolphin watch cruise that departs about an hour before sunset and lasts roughly two hours, with complimentary beer and wine included. Private day charters are also available for shelling trips, sightseeing, or visits to secluded beaches and islands reachable only by boat.
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters focuses more on fishing, with fly fishing, offshore, and inshore charters that typically run 4 to 6 hours. Tarpon season runs from May through July, and evening snook trips and Charlotte Harbor excursions are also available on request.
If general boating and cruising around greater Sarasota interests you beyond Siesta Key itself, our guide to boating fun in Sarasota covers the wider area.
What Other Water Activities Are Available on Siesta Key?
Siesta Key Aqua Adventures runs banana boat and bumper boat rides with direct pickup from Siesta Key Beach, a good option for families traveling with kids too young for a jet ski. Rides come in a calm scenic version or a faster, bumpier version for thrill seekers.
For paddling instead of powered activities, kayaking, paddleboarding, and guided eco tours through the Jim Neville Marine Preserve are covered in detail in our Siesta Key kayaking guide. If snorkeling is more your speed, our guide to snorkeling at Point of Rocks covers the best reef access on the island.
What Should You Know Before Booking Siesta Key Water Sports?
Reserve ahead during the December through April peak season, when jet skis, parasail slots, and boat rentals book up days in advance. Most operators hold a 24 hour cancellation policy on credit card reservations, so confirm the policy when you book.
Morning hours generally bring calmer water and lighter wind, which makes for a smoother ride on a jet ski or a steadier lift on a parasail. Afternoon wind off the Gulf can pick up and occasionally pushes operators to pause parasailing for the day.
If you are staying on the island without a car, Siesta Key Watersports offers a free shuttle service to its Sarasota location, and the free Siesta Key trolley can get you around the island between activities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Siesta Key Water Sports
How high do you go parasailing on Siesta Key?
Siesta Key Watersports flies riders up to 1,000 feet above the Gulf of Mexico on standard trips, with premium options available.
How much does a boat rental cost on Siesta Key?
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters lists half day, 4 hour rentals from $169 to $339 and full day, 9 hour rentals from $279 to $449, depending on the boat.
Do you need a license or certification to rent a jet ski on Siesta Key?
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, must complete a boater safety course under Florida law. Operators handle this on site with a short Safe Boaters test before you head out.
Is prior experience required for parasailing?
No. Parasailing on Siesta Key requires no prior experience, and USCG certified captains run every trip.
What is the best time of year to book Siesta Key water sports?
December through April is peak season and the busiest time to book. Morning slots year round tend to have calmer water than afternoon slots.
Plan Your Siesta Key Water Sports Day
From jet skis and parasailing to pontoon boats and sunset cruises, Siesta Key puts every major water activity within a short drive of the beach. Booking ahead with an established operator like Siesta Key Watersports or CB’s Saltwater Outfitters is the simplest way to lock in the time slot you want.
Stay close to the launch points by booking a vacation rental with Vacation On Siesta. Browse our full collection of Siesta Key vacation rental homes or call us at 941 422 2716 to start planning your day on the water.
