I planned my trip to Sarasota, FL, several weeks before the BP oil spill in the Gulf on Mexico. Every time I'd been to Sarasota, it was too cold to enjoy the beach but I figured that it should finally be warm enough on Memorial Day Weekend. Well, now I wasn't worried about the weather — I was afraid that the beautiful Siesta Key beach, which sits on the Gulf coast, would be contaminated by the oil spill. Luckily, my fears have been for naught because Siesta Key beach has remained clean and oil-free (as you can see in the photo above, which was taken on Friday). I've now spent Friday, Saturday and Sunday (today) relaxing on the beach.
Siesta Beach was named the second best beach in the US by Dr. Beach, who uses 50 criteria to determine his list. And yes, this list does include Hawaii. Siesta Beach has sand like talcum power: fine and white. If I brought you there blindfolded and then told you that you were in the Caribbean, you'd believe me, especially as you felt the calm, clear, warm (81 degrees!) water. It would be an elaborate ruse, yes, but that's how good this beach is. I'm so thankful that it hasn't been affected by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
So far, no beaches in Florida have had to close because of the oil spill. Ironically, the beaches in Florida believed to be at the biggest risk are Key West and Miami, because of the loop current. So the beaches on Florida's Gulf Coast should be safe. In the meantime, British Petroleum, plug up that leak!

Looks like fun ! Great photos by the way 🙂
I am so glad you went when you did. I hear that the oil is now hours away from Florida. It is heart wrenching. But I have to give it to you, this is a beautiful spot.
We love Siesta Key and visit often. We think it has the most wonderful beach. It would sure be ashamed if it was ruined by the oil spill.
Look beautiful! Where did you stay while you were there? Do you have any suggestions of hotels to stay at in the area?
I am so glad to hear that the beach is in good condition. We are going to Siesta Key in 2 weeks and I was worried!
Awww my favorite beach in FL, Navarre beach, might be a squall away from oil!! Glad to hear your beach is fine, let’s all hope it stays clear and beautiful!
Beaches in FL, are clean and beautiful. Happy to know that, oil leakage isn’t a problem there. Going there within a week to enjoy the holidays at beautiful spot. just booked my hotel with http://www.citybreak.uk.com
That surely looks like it deserves its place on the list!
I’d be there in a heartbeat. it’s so cold today!
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