Siesta Key’s Point of Rocks at Crescent Beach is one of the best ocean attractions in the Sarasota area providing an underwater experience you won’t forget, full of magnificent views of ocean life. This is the perfect spot for families and individuals to swim, snorkel, scuba dive, or simply take a scenic stroll by the water.
Point of Rocks
South of Crescent Beach, Point of Rocks separates Crescent Beach from Turtle Beach. You’ll immediately spot the limestone rocks and ledges that lead into crystal clear waters. For the first 100 yards along the rocks, the water is clear and shallow, allowing you to see a variety of tropical fish that tend to hide amongst the rocks and algae.
The waters are very clear and calm, which makes for a perfect snorkeling environment in comparison to the main public beaches. Point of Rocks is abundant with marine life, meaning you can get up close to tropical fish, various crustaceans, crabs, red sponges, and shells of all kinds!
During summer months, you may even see dolphins and manatees. Visibility in this water ranges up to 20 feet or so, but closer to the rock it is about 6 feet. Snorkeling in the early morning is the best time to have clear, calm waters and see all the marine life that comes out.
Even if you are just trying out snorkeling, Point of Rocks is a perfect location for ocean adventures with the stable, shallow water and crystal clear waters! If you have an underwater camera, be sure to bring it to this location to capture a fun-filled day in the water and all the wildlife you may see.
Best Time of Day for Snorkeling
Timing is everything with the tides! Since the moon pushes and pulls the water to create tides, weather can be somewhat unpredictable if you don’t time it appropriately. Look for a clear, sunny day to get the best water visibility. Ideally, you will want to snorkel during high tide as it will allow you to swim around the limestone rocks easily.
If you arrive early, you’ll feel the advantages of better water visibility, lower winds, and first dibs on parking!
Crescent Beach Location & Parking
Located at 6900 Point of Rocks Road, there is a gravel pathway that you can follow that will lead you down to the beachfront. Beach Access Point # 12 near Old Stickney road will also grant you direct access. If you are on Crescent Beach already, simply hike south till you see the natural barrier of rocks that divides Crescent and Turtle Beach! The parking lot near Beach Access Point # 12 is smaller, so it is recommended to get there early if you are driving to this location.
Snorkeling Gear
It is recommended to bring a snorkel mask or goggles, fins, and a diver down flag. You may also want to bring some water shoes for easy navigation between the rocks. The diver down flag is helpful for those going in deeper water as it will let other divers know that you are in the area. If you come in the winter, you may want to bring a wetsuit!
Ride & Paddle by Siesta Sports Rentals offers a variety of rentals, including a snorkeling set perfect for Point of Rocks that includes a snorkel, mask, and fins for as little as $15 for a day.
