Scooters, carts, beach gear and more — all in one spot
By Mackenzie Palmer
On Siesta Key, there are plenty of things to do — but not everyone wants to lug a surfboard or kayak on vacation. That’s where Robin Hood Rentals comes in.
According to its official website, “Robin Hood Rentals was born out of one man’s desire to make exploring and enjoying Siesta Key and the local area easier and more affordable for those that are visiting.”
Located at 5255 Ocean Blvd., Robin Hood Rentals offers a wide variety of beach equipment and transportation options for rent. Visitors can also reserve gear online at robinhoodrentals.net or call (941) 554-4242.
Open since October 2009, Robin Hood Rentals has now been serving visitors for 16 years. Back when it launched, the peak season was primarily March and April. But ever since Siesta Key was named the best beach in America, the area has become busy nearly year-round. Today, Robin Hood Rentals also has locations in Anna Maria and Bradenton.
Owner Mark Toomey moved to the area in 2007 from Nottingham, England — the legendary home of Robin Hood himself. Naming the business after the folklore hero seemed fitting for a company built on sharing resources with others.
Toomey said he always wanted to do something different and fell in love with Siesta Key. One day, he bought a few electric scooters and launched the business. Since then, he has continued rotating his inventory and expanding his offerings.
After floods caused by hurricanes, Toomey lost nearly all of his equipment. In response, he gave away more than 100 bikes to local workers in the village — employees at restaurants and stores who were still on the job.
Following the storms, Robin Hood Rentals didn’t reopen until December.
“I had a guy outside the business renting golf carts, but the shop itself wasn’t repaired and open until late December,” Toomey said. “We were down for three months. I don’t think there was anybody in the village that wasn’t affected by it.”
Fortunately, business eventually began to bounce back.
“I was the first person to bring golf carts to Siesta Key,” Toomey said. “I have three-wheel scooter cars, scooters, bikes, kayaks, Segways — everything. But I was the first guy to start with two golf carts on Siesta Key.”
Toomey said more than 90% of his customers are tourists, though some locals use the service when they have out-of-town guests. About 25% of bookings are made online, and the shop offers free delivery on most items — though Toomey encourages customers to confirm availability.
The most popular rentals are golf carts and three-wheel scooter cars.
Robin Hood Rentals also has a retail shop that sells Siesta Key merchandise, including hoodies, caps, shot glasses, beach balls and more. The store also offers henna tattoos, hair braiding, permanent jewelry, and other fun beach extras.
When Toomey stops in to check on the store and staff, he says he’s always reminded of why he loves his work.
“I’m working in paradise, and I get to meet people from all over the world,” Toomey said. “Everyone is happy, and Siesta Key in general is just a happy place to be. When they come to Siesta Key, they’re in a great mood, and they just want to see a smiling face and receive some good service.”
So, if you and your family are looking for something fun to check off your Siesta Key bucket list, stop by Robin Hood Rentals and see what adventure awaits.
