Reviews for Crystal Sands Vacation Rental - VRBO 36514 - 2 BR Siesta Key Condo in FL, Voted No. 1 Beach in Us - #1005 Beachfront

Wonderful Condo

Guest Cat
Date of stay 04/20/13
Review Submitted 05/06/13

This is a very clean, inviting condo. Things we liked: the two leather recliners, the well furnished lani with a gorgeous view. The linens are all first class and the beds are very comfortable. There are so many extra thoughtful touches that make it very homey. There is a whole closet filled with beach toys and games, etc. We also loved the carpeting instead of tile. It's a great location with all kinds of restaurants close by and The Village is a fun place to go. Can't emphasize the view enough. And, of course, the beach is the best. The owners are great to work with and we can't wait until we go back next year.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Fantastic Getaway!!!

Guest William H.
Date of stay 04/13/13
Review Submitted 05/06/13

Booked through VRBO for the first time and wasn't sure what to expect. All I can say is wow! The unit was immaculate and was equipped with everything imaginable. The views were amazing - you felt like you were over the water and could see the entire lenght of the pristine beach. The beach sand was white powder - nicer than most beaches we've been to in the caribbean. There were plenty of chairs available on the beach, but we rented 2 padded chairs and an umbrella for our stay and it was well worth it. Pool was very nice and never very crowded. Covered parking was extremely convenient as it was right next to the building entrance. The village was a short drive away and there were plenty of very good outdoor restaurants to enjoy. We can't say enough good things about the unit, the area and the owners and sincerely hope to go back next year.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Exceeded Expectations!!!

Guest D. Jevince
Date of stay 04/06/13
Review Submitted 04/16/13

Do not hesitate to book this property! We are seasoned VRBO renters, and the entire experience from the condition of the condo, to working with Jane, was top-notch! The pictures of the beach from the lanai do not do it justice; the view is spectacular, and the lanai is huge! Attention to details and cleanliness are outstanding. The furnishings, linens, towels, pots and pans etc. are very good quality. No convenience was forgotten -- there is even a sewing kit! The interior reflects a feeling of a comfortable beach-side cottage with well-appointed furniture, artwork and accessories...think cottage meets high-rise. Pool is inviting and was comfortably heated. All of the grounds of the condo are well-kept. The designated covered parking space was close to the elevator. The condo, beach and pool have good security measures in place so it is very private. A huge bonus were the beach chaises, which were always in good supply. Everyone was very welcoming and friendly, even the full-time residents were smiling and eager to say hello. Convenience to the market on the key is wonderful and in walking distance. We rented bikes in the same area as the market; a fun and inexpensive way to spend some time on the beach. Restaurants are abundant on Siesta. Downtown Sarasota is full of restaurant options, shopping and art. The marina is a great place to spend time drooling over gorgeous boats and yachts. If you're lucky there will be some type of art exhibit in the park adjacent to the marina. I recommend the La Barge Sight-Seeing Boat Tour that leaves from the marina. We took our two teenage daughters and they loved seeing where some celebrities live. St.Armand's Circle is a nice way to spend an evening browsing though the boutiques or for dining alfresco at one of the numerous restaurants. Mote Aquarium is also worth a visit. You'll learn a lot about the local sea life. Or just stay on the beach at the condo and you might see a mama and baby manatee like many people saw when we were there! (I missed it :( Thank you Jane and Dick for your friendly professionalism. You were a pleasure to rent from!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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JUST PERFECT

Guest OKLA. Travelers
Date of stay 01/05/13
Review Submitted 02/07/13

First time visiting Siesta Key. This rental unit has everthing and is kept in TOP condition. Amenities include use of computer, daily newspaper, thorough instructions for use of all appliances, etc., parking, and many security features.. Beach is just as pictured, and screened lani was fabulous. January temps were warm most days. Guest book has many recommendations for eating, and sightseeing. Other guests we met on the beach and at resturants were very friendly. We want to return.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Wonderful Escape!

Guest Carrie
Date of stay 12/25/12
Review Submitted 01/25/13

Our family of 4 absolutely loved staying here! The condo was very clean, nicely decorated, with high quality towels, linens etc. Very comfortable beds too! It felt like a home. The view was incredible, and the beach was the most beautiful we've seen. Our kids loved having toys for the beach. My son rarely let go of the football, and my daughter had fun boogie boarding. The nearby village is fun to visit too with many great places to eat and hang out. Eventhough we came all the way from Washington state, we want to come back! Thank you Dick and Jane!

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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A Beautiful, Beachfront Condo that Feels Like Home!

Guest Joe and Diane
Date of stay 10/05/12
Review Submitted 10/16/12

We just spent a wonderful vacation on Siesta Key, in this picture perfect condo, with a spectacular view. The owners were very helpful and accomodating with the rental process. The condo is beautifully decorated with attention to comfort and detail in every room. What a pleasant surprise to find the newspaper delivered daily, and the owners provided plenty of helpful information regarding restaurants and activities in the entire Sarasota area. The towels and bedding are of the highest quality, and the kitchen is stocked with absolutely everything you could possibly need! There is also has a washer and dryer in the unit. Even the assigned parking space was one of the best! We could not have enjoyed our stay more, and are hoping to come back next year!

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway.

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Amazing Property

Guest Carla
Date of stay 07/29/12
Review Submitted 08/07/12

This is our third year to be fortunate to stay in Crystal Sands #1005. The condo is furnished beautifully with all the necessities you would ever need. We absolutely love the location, the fabulous beach of Siesta Key, visiting Siesta Key Village and so many other things. Looking forward to visiting again next year.

Owner response: Dear Carla, Thanks so much for the review. We have loved having your family stay in our "home away from home." It has always been our goal to provide amenities that we would like in our vacation home and furnishings that are not just lovely, but are comfortable - it is so nice to receive reviews which show appreciation for details. Of course -the best thing is our powdery sand several steps from the door! Dick and Jane

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OCEAN FRONT AS CLOSE AS YOU CAN GET WITHOUT GETTING WET

Guest MSU
Date of stay 12/15/11
Review Submitted 02/28/12

This place is as close to the water as you will get on Siesta Key. Everyone says gulf frontage but this is absolutely gulf frontage. Bed is very comfortable nice sheets nice pillows. Carpet is a plus in my opinion. Free internet and computer very nice. Lots of beach toys which is also nice. Tv's in every room with many channels. This is my favorite place on Siesta Key

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

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Absolute perfection

Guest Rick
Date of stay 07/08/11
Review Submitted 08/04/11

This is the perfect beachfront vacation spot, our family thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The views from the balcony were spectacular. The condo was perfect in size and comfort. It was clean and had many amenities to make our stay that much better. We intend to make this a place to return to many more times.

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

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Location, Location, Location

Guest Carol
Date of stay 03/19/11
Review Submitted 05/09/11

Every morning my 30-yr.-old daughter would say, "This view reminds me more of the Bahamas than it does Florida." From the lanai, you can see the entire shape of the crescent portion of Siesta Key, all the way up to the public beach. In addition, the condo's interior is comfortable, especially the L-shaped sofa and 2 leather recliners, perfectly angled to watch the large screen HD tv. All the mattresses were plush without being too soft, and the master bath showerhead was great. The owners are delightful, even providing the morning paper at your door. I like this condo best of the 4 at this complex in which I have stayed, and I have already put in my reservation for the fall and next spring.

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

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Outstanding Rental Condo

Guest Jan G.
Date of stay 08/29/10
Review Submitted 08/29/10

We are looking forward to returning to this outstanding condo at Crystal Sands, Siesta Key. The photos do not do justice to the extra-ordinary views and sounds of the Gulf. The owners Jane and Dick have provided an amazing, state of the art retreat and are excellent hosts who maintain exception communication with their renters. Not only is the condo comfortable but the decorating proves worthy of a magazine. The HUGE wrap around lanai is perfect for sunsets and views. Every attention to detail adds to your enjoyment. The separated bedrooms add to your privacy if sharing. First class all the way. We simply can't wait to return and celebrate our anniversary in style. Golf is close, as are numerous restaurants. Crystal Sands is a much sought after complex with security and warmth built in. This is a must see. Jan and Al Griffin Canada

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Outstanding vacation Condo

Guest Jan G.
Date of stay 08/29/10
Review Submitted 08/29/10

We are looking forward to returning to this outstanding condo at Crystal Sands, Siesta Key. The photos do not do justice to the extra-ordinary views and sounds of the Gulf. The owners Jane and Dick have provided an amazing, state of the art retreat and are excellent hosts who maintain exception communication with their renters. Not only is the condo comfortable but the decorating proves worthy of a magazine. The HUGE wrap around lanai is perfect for sunsets and views. Every attention to detail adds to your enjoyment. The separated bedrooms add to your privacy if sharing. First class all the way. We simply can't wait to return and celebrate our anniversary in style. Golf is close, as are numerous restaurants. Crystal Sands is a much sought after complex with security and warmth built in. This is a must see. Jan and Al Griffin Canada

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PERFECT CONDO

Guest jeff & patty
Date of stay 07/10/10
Review Submitted 09/03/10

Very comfortable, hugh master bedroom with access to balcony from both bedrooms and living area with spectacular views of beach/ocean. Kitchen fully equipped. Property clean and well maintained. You can feel that this condo is used by the owners, furnishings are very nice & comfortable. building is kept up very well,security features are excellent. the pool is very nice &clean. and last but not least you can walk from entrance to your car under covered walkways in the carport areas if its raining. We've stayed in condos from alabama to michigan & this is a good one. Will stay here again for sure! Sincerely, Jeff & Patty

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

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A++++++ Condo and location!!!

Guest Kathy
Date of stay 06/26/10
Review Submitted 09/09/10

This was by far the nicest and most fully equipped condo we have ever stayed in! We would go back tomorrow if we could! The beachfront pool is great and the beach is by far the nicest, cleanest beach I've ever sunk my feet into! Put it on your bucket list!!

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway.

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Better Than The Pictures!

Guest Denise
Date of stay 06/19/10
Review Submitted 09/13/10

The pictures on the website don't even come close to portraying the spectacular view or warmness of this great condo. It was extremely clean with all the amenities needed and more. The beach umbrella was an absolute life saver! The area is great for relaxing but yet close enough to many of Florida's attractions. We enjoyed eating on the outdoor decks at the restaurants in downtown Siesta Key and highly recommend taking a sunset sail (even our teenage children loved it). My family has rented from VRBO before and Jane is definitely the most responsive, organized owner I've dealt with to date. The combination of the condo, the beach, and the water made for an excellent vacation.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Beautiful Oceanfront Condo

Guest Michelle and Nicky
Date of stay 05/01/10
Review Submitted 09/08/10

We rented this condo for a relaxing, no stress vacation. The owner Jane was very helpful before our trip with information on the condo complex and the area. When we arrived, we were very pleased with the complex. The grounds were very well-groomed, the pools were clean and the security was up-to-date. The unit itself was extremely well-maintained. The kitchen had everything you could ask for to prepare any meal, the master suite was absolutely gorgeous, the beds were amazingly comfortable and the view...WOW. From the screened lanai you could see miles down the beach! It was incredible to wake up in the morning and have an ocean view from every room! The comfort of having the "extra" amenities really did help to de-stress during our trip. I loved having a washer and dryer in the unit! Not having to lug dirty laundry down the hall and actually being able to do laundry in my pajamas was such a plus. The biggest "extra" was having the computer in the unit. We honestly didn't think we would ever use it, but it seemed like we were constantly looking up addresses for attractions or restaurants. Jane also has a desk drawer file with local menus, attractions, maps, etc. This came in handy and we selected several restaurants from this file. We highly recommend Javier's! (My husband thought the best "extra" was the covered parking!) During our trip, we visited the Ringling mansion and museums and would recommend that to everyone. (Monday is free admission to the art museum at Ringling). We also visited Mote Aquarium (also great), and spent time on the wonderful white, flour soft sand of the beach right outside the building door. I spent hours running my fingers through the sand wondering "How can it be this soft?" The condos have chaise lounge chairs available and there were always plenty to go around. Jane and Dick have a large selection of beach toys and umbrellas in their condo, as well. We will definitely return to this condo the next time we are in the area. My mother-in-law is already planning a trip to Siesta Key next summer and isn't even considering staying anywhere else. We have rented condos in many different locations before, but have always felt that we were just staying in a large hotel room. This time, we felt as if we were staying at Dick and Jane's house. There's nothing wrong with that!

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Great Condo on the Best Beach

Guest Geo and Carol
Date of stay 01/31/10
Review Submitted 09/20/10

While the weather in Feb was unusually cold and windy, this condo with its fantastic views certainly made up for the lack of sunshine. This is the best appointed and equipped rental property that one could ask for. It is obvious that this is also Jane and Dick's home away from home, as there is no detail unattended to. As fall begins to set into New England, we are already looking forward to our 2011 stay in this great location. Jane has promised warm, sunny days and low golf scores. I'm sure she can deliver on the sunshine, but the golf scores might be asking a bit too much.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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It doesn't get any better than this!

Guest Linda
Date of stay 01/02/10
Review Submitted 08/28/10

We enjoyed the month of January 2010 in this fully-featured beautiful condo. Every single thing that a vacationer could possibly want is already in this comfortable and attractive unit complete with one of the best views of the water on Siesta Key. The building is well-maintained, and the pool is top-notch. Even when there were a few glitches, the landlords were totally on top of the situation and made everything right quickly and completely. This is the third time we have stayed in this building and this unit was our favorite.

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1005 is superb

Guest Rich
Date of stay 12/06/09
Review Submitted 08/28/10

We enjoy spending the time in #1005 as it feels like home. All the amenties of home are open and free to use. Amongst many of the reasons we enjoy 1005 is the comfortable lanai overlooking the gulf. The chairs are comfortable, the breeze is superb, sipping a cocktail, and just relazing with a book and then a snooze. The wireless computer and HD TV's allow us to stay contacted with freinds and family while conducting business via the internet or our cell phones. Have spent many years in Crystal Sands, there is only one condo that is the best and this is it. Opps....almost forgot, we love the various restaurants and things to do, all 5-10 minutes away.

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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A week in paradise

Guest Molly
Date of stay 03/27/09
Review Submitted 08/29/10

Our family had a wonderful time in this beautiful condo. The views are absolutely breathtaking. The condo is spacious, neat & clean, and has everything you need for a comfortable stay. The beautiful white sand beach is wonderful. Also, the two pools in the complex are great. We enjoyed walking the beach and spotting dolphins playing near the shore. We walked to the pubic beach and enjoyed a hot dog or two. The condo is close to shopping, restaurants, baseball, parasailing and much more. I would, and have, recommended this condo to many people. We just can't wait to go back.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Vacation Rentals by Owner

Voted No. 1 Beach in Us - #1005 Beachfront - Steps to Sand! [#36514] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (20)

Wonderful Condo

Wonderful Condo

Fantastic Getaway!!!

Fantastic Getaway!!!

Exceeded Expectations!!!

Exceeded Expectations!!!

JUST PERFECT

JUST PERFECT

Wonderful Escape!

Wonderful Escape!

A Beautiful, Beachfront Condo that Feels Like Home!

A Beautiful, Beachfront Condo that Feels Like Home!

Amazing Property

Amazing Property

OCEAN FRONT AS CLOSE AS YOU CAN GET WITHOUT GETTING WET

OCEAN FRONT AS CLOSE AS YOU CAN GET WITHOUT GETTING WET

Absolute perfection

Absolute perfection

Location, Location, Location

Location, Location, Location

Outstanding Rental Condo

Outstanding Rental Condo

Outstanding vacation Condo

Outstanding vacation Condo

PERFECT CONDO

PERFECT CONDO

A++++++ Condo and location!!!

A++++++ Condo and location!!!

Better Than The Pictures!

Better Than The Pictures!

Beautiful Oceanfront Condo

Beautiful Oceanfront Condo

Great Condo on the Best Beach

Great Condo on the Best Beach

It doesn't get any better than this!

It doesn't get any better than this!

1005 is superb

1005 is superb

A week in paradise

A week in paradise