Welcome to Longboat Key
Longboat Key is a 12-mile stretch of some of the best manicured and well-maintained properties in Sarasota/ Manatee Counties. The island’s residential real estate is a mix of old-school Florida homes, newly built mansions and luxury condominiums. Gulf of Mexico Drive is the main artery and runs the length of Longboat Key featuring lush landscaping, championship golf courses and beautiful Gulf of Mexico views. While Longboat Key residents enjoy a large degree of privacy due to an abundance of gated communities and hidden side streets, they also have access to convenient, well-maintained shopping centers and high-end dining. Residents especially enjoy having these local amenities available to them during the higher traffic winter months when the Ringling Bridge’s traffic increases.
Insider Tips
Family Friendly:
The Mote Marine Aquarium is located just off the John Ringling Parkway to the immediate south of Longboat Key. The aquarium is home to over 100 marine species including turtles, alligators, sharks, manatees and a large variety of tropical fish. Make sure to not to miss the North American river otter exhibit – too cute!
Recreation / Culture:
The Longboat Key Club is a AAA Four-Diamond Resort and an Opal Collection Destination. Members and hotel guests enjoy unlimited use of 45-holes of golf, the Tennis Garden, a deep-water marina, pool and beach facilities, soothing spa treatments and five private restaurants and lounges. Notably, the Resort debuted a top to bottom renovation in 2021.
Favorite Restaurants:
Longboat Key has a sophisticated dining scene resembling the quality often found in larger metropolitan areas. On the south side, the Chart House is located adjacent to the Longboat Key Club and provides diners immaculate views and a vibrant happy hour. Its menu includes fresh seafood such as grilled mahi mahi, wild caught king crab and crunchy coconut shrimp.
Further north, Maison Blanche offers a menu of high-end French cuisine, and received Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence for 2020. At the north end of Longboat Key, in Longboat Village, Shore Longboat Key is the top choice for those interested in a restaurant with a hip, modern design, multiple terraces and tiered tables which gives all patrons a view of the water. There are multiple bars, an active nightlife and boaters can enjoy the 400 feet of waterfront and a 300 ft dock that can accommodate virtually any length boat a customer may have. Favorite dishes here include the Kung Pao Calamari, Vegan Kale “Caesar”, and Ahi Tuna Mignon.
