Things to do on and around Siesta Key
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Siesta Photobomber promotes positivity— and now local businesses, too
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Larry Frankel, the Siesta Photobomber. (Photo provided)
ive years ago, Larry Frankel would never have pictured himself as an outgoing, beach-centric, local celebrity and online influencer. But today, his alter-ego, the Siesta Photobomber, has amassed more than 4,000 Instagram followers, not to mention in-person selfie requests wherever he goes. Now, in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Frankel is eager to return to Siesta Key to spread his usual brand of positivity—and to use his influence to promote local businesses. A Marine Corps veteran and longtime Philadelphia resident, Frankel spent decades as an introverted husband,
By Hannah Wallace avid runner, and stay-at-home dad. But a full hip replacement, followed by a divorce, inspired a major life change. Longing for the southwest Florida sunsets he’d first seen on Longboat Key decades ago—”I’d rather have sunsets than sunrises,” he said— he moved to Sarasota in 2020 and vowed to pursue new passions. “I literally started a new life,” he said. “I never would’ve done this in my other life.” And after 10 years off from running, he realized Siesta Key Beach’s flat, packed sand near the shoreline would be perfect for a jog. Soon enough, he was running five miles a night. And during his excursions, he saw many other visitors who’d come to see—and
photograph—Siesta’s famous sunsets. In 2022, in a moment of boredom, he maneuvered himself into the background of a group photo, and a local legend was born. “It really started to catch on with people,” he remembered. “I said to myself, ‘Larry, you might have something here. Let’s create an Instagram account and see what happens.’” What began as a playful impulse quickly grew into an online sensation. Nowadays, instead of his guerilla-style antics, fans and passersby often request Frankel’s presence in their shots. One bride actually paused her beach wedding to flag him down
for a photo. He’s met people from around the world and fielded invitations to places as far afield as Iceland and Argentina. In some cases he stays in touch with people even after they go home, turning spontaneous encounters into lifelong friends. Four years after his move, Frankel still wants to be on Siesta Key for nearly every sunset. “Even to this day, I get excited,” he said. “I know I’m going to the best beach in America.” With his flowing gray hair and ready smile, he exudes a humble charisma and enthusiasm that’s hard to resist. “Sometimes there’s some people who don’t get what I do,” Continued on page 9V
Festive Holiday Shopping in Siesta Key & Gulf Gate
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anta says, “Head to Siesta Key and Gulf Gate to do your holiday shopping this year.” Lend your support to the local merchants and discover wonderful finds for everyone on your list. Jingle, jingle! Siesta Key and neighboring Gulf Gate are filled with shops and eateries on the Key offering sure-to-please holiday gifts that can’t be found at large department stores. Shoppers will discover personalized shopping and help in finding just the right gift. Along the way, there are also plenty of places to stop for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a drink. For a morning, afternoon or full day of holiday shopping, plan for a fun day of holiday shopping on Siesta Key and nearby Gulf Gate.
By Jane Bartnett Shop and dine in Siesta Key
En route to Siesta Key, at the intersection of Stickney Point Road and Tamiami Trail South, dive into Swim City. This large and welcoming shop has a large selection of beachwear and accessories. Continue over the bridge to CB’s Saltwater Outfitters. Following post-storm renovation, CB’s is expected to open in late November or early December. Next door, Fin Island Company, CB’s sister store, is a beach-inspired boutique filled with tropical gear, clothing and gift items for him, her and kids. too. At the light, turn left at the colorful “Welcome to Siesta Key” mural on the side of the Crescent Beach Market. This end of the Key has a vibe that’s distinctly different than the village that lies to the
northern part of the island. Stop in at Captain Curt’s Souvenir & Gift Shop, lot of fun gifts to consider. The Southbridge Mall is home to Silver City Jewelers and the trademarked watercolor gemstone, silver jewelry is the star of the show here. The Green Turtle Shell & Gift City store has great coastal inspired finds. The Crescent Beach Shopping Center is home to Key Casuals, a women’s clothing shop filled with vacation wear and Siesta Key merchandise. A few doors away, Sunshine & Sand Hidden Treasures, next to the Big Water Fish Company has affordable coastal themed gifts. The stylish Eye Style Optical Boutique has a large selection of top brand sunglasses that would make an excellent gift. Continued on page 9V
Siesta Key’s iconic lifeguard chairs decorate these cool tumblers found at Sunshine & Sand Hidden Treasures in the Crescent Beach Shopping Center. (Photo provided)
SIESTA KEY
SWIMWEAR RESORT WEAR ACCESSORIES
1960 Stickney Pt Rd 941.922.4545
DOWNTOWN
50 N Tamiami Trl 941.954.8800
LONGBOAT
3170 Gulf of Mexico Dr 941.383.2288
www.SwimCity.com