Shell Beach – One of Sarasota’s Hidden Treasures
A slice may be generous, let’s say a sliver of beach access exists on Siesta Key’s north end and is known only to those who have achieved true local status…or those lucky enough to have stumbled on it from Trip Advisor. The sliver is named Shell Beach and arrived at via none other than Shell Road. If you’re entering the Key from the North Bridge taking Siesta Drive, the road naturally ends where it meets Higel Ave. in a sharp left turn. You’ll want to be going slow because once on Higel, Shell Road is the third right and if you get swept up in the beautiful surroundings, you’ll drive right past it. Furthermore, slow driving is a thing in Sarasota. If you want to truly embrace island life, then 30 mph is the max speed limit on the Key.
Turning onto Shell Road, you’ll come to know what few do, that a tiny piece of paradise awaits at the end of the road. Timing is everything here. There are only about 15 parking spots for public parking, including one handicap spot that is right up at the beachline. You’ve really got to be lucky to find a spot. This is not a beach destination to go to with large parties or those expecting full-on beach amenities. Shell Beach doesn’t have restrooms, concessions or even that many shells to be honest. But what it does have is a private, peaceful serenity that will have you making special plans to visit.
