From parasailing and fishing to beach barbecues and baseball, there are plenty of ways to treat Dad on June 21
By Ned Steele
It’s coming soon: the day dads wait for all year. Father’s Day is Sunday, June 21 — which also happens to be the summer solstice. So, in honor of dads everywhere, here’s a roundup of some of Siesta Key’s best ways to make it a fun and memorable day in the summer sun.
Try Parasailing
For the adventurous dad, literally nothing tops this. Gliding high above the Gulf under the watchful eyes of a safety-focused crew could become a memory he’ll never forget. He might even spot a dolphin or two in the blue waters below. Parasail Siesta is at parasailsiesta.com or 941-357-1143.
Hop on a Jet Ski
Staying at sea level doesn’t have to be boring. Another thrilling way to spend the day is zipping across the water with the wind in your hair aboard a jet ski. If Dad would rather take it slow, that works too. CB’s Saltwater Outfitters offers rentals. Call 941-349-4400 or visit cbsoutfitters.com.
Go Fishing
CB’s also can help set Dad up for whichever type of fishing he enjoys most. Because what’s more “Dad” than a day on the water?
CB’s offers boat rentals and chartered fishing trips for everyone from seasoned anglers to beginners. The outfitter specializes in the shallow intracoastal waters, where fishermen may spot mangroves, tropical vegetation, snook, redfish and speckled trout. Gulf inshore reef excursions target tarpon, cobia and tripletail. (Experience and a license are required for rentals.)
Rent a Golf Cart
Give Dad a break from driving the family car and let him cruise Siesta Key in an open-air golf cart. Robin Hood Rentals is located at 5255 Ocean Blvd. in Siesta Village. Call 941-554-4242.
Hit the Beach
Siesta Beach has once again been rated the No. 1 beach in the nation, and what dad wouldn’t enjoy a few responsibility-free hours relaxing by the water with family?
If he prefers a quieter setting, Crescent Beach or Turtle Beach may be the perfect alternative. But Siesta offers more than just sand and surf.
Hit the Beach: Volleyball
You’ve seen it on TV and maybe even played it indoors, but beach volleyball brings a whole new challenge with shifting sand beneath your feet. Courts are plentiful at Siesta Beach unless a tournament is taking place.
Hit the Beach: Pickleball
Pickleball courts are available near the southern end of Siesta Beach Park, close to the fire station. Early morning or evening play is recommended to beat the summer heat.
Hit the Beach: Barbecue
Siesta Beach and Turtle Beach both offer barbecue grills for burgers, hot dogs or any Father’s Day feast. Morton’s Market in Siesta Village is a convenient stop for supplies. Just remember: Bring your own charcoal. And no grilling is permitted directly on the sand.
Get on a Boat
Surrounded by water, Siesta Key offers endless opportunities to get out on the Gulf or bay for a relaxing cruise or adventure.
One option is kayaking through the mangroves with Ride & Paddle by Siesta Sports Rentals, where guided tours can include sightings of herons, dolphins and secluded beaches. Visit Rideandpaddle.com or call 941-346-1797.
For a different experience, Fun Boat Tours offers covered, captained cruises on the Gulf or bay, including sunset tours and possible dolphin sightings. Visit Funboattours.com or call 941-229-7842.
High Tide Tiki also offers floating party cruises around Siesta Key. Visit Hightidetikiboat.com or call 941-283-8454.
Play Ball!
It’s not summer without baseball. If Dad is a diehard fan, treat him to a few relaxing hours watching the Tampa Bay Rays host the Washington Nationals at 1:40 p.m. on Rays.TV — either at home or at one of Siesta Key’s favorite sports bars.
At Day’s End … Ice Cream
What else? You don’t have to be a dad to enjoy a cone or cup from Jake’s, Made in Rome Gelato or Orange Octopus on the key — or Abel’s just over the south bridge on Stickney Point Road.
Ride for Free
Don’t spend Father’s Day searching for parking. The Breeze free trolley can get visitors up and down the key with stops along Midnight Pass Road, Beach Road and Ocean Boulevard.
And somewhere amid all the fun, remember to say “thank you” to Dad for everything he does all year long.
