Longboat Key has been named in in the top 10 list
by Conde Nast’s list of Best Islands
in the United States for 2015.

Longboat Key looking north from Lido KeyLongboat Key Looking North from Lido Key
 
Longboat Key Beach - About as good as it gets for privacy
The Beach on Longboat Key
Private, serene, and not crowded

While Siesta Key has been receiving accolades almost every year, Longboat Key has been a will hidden and largely unknown tropical location. Other than locals and those who frequent the Sarasota area, this peaceful setting is one of the best places to relax and enjoy some non-constructive down time and do it in style! The drive from Sarasota across the John Ringling Bridge, then around the posh shops and dining establishments of St. Armand’s Circle takes just a few minutes and head north onto Longboat Key.

The waters views of Sarasota Bay and the tropical island setting warms the soul.  The upscale and relaxing atmosphere is what Longboat Key is known for. Gulf of Mexico Drive is the main road up and down the key with Gulf front residences to the west and bay front and canal properties to the east.  Approximately 11 miles of white sand beaches are washed by the warm clear azure waters of the gulf. Access is limited through St. Armand’s Circle to the South and Cortez Road to the north.

Longboat Key Offers Two Golf Courses
Sharpen Your Game
Longboat Key has Two Courses

What you will first notice is the amount of green space between the condos and focus on the upscale amenities. Longboat Key is one of the very rare tropical islands to offer golf at both the Harbourside Golf and the Links on Longboat courses.  The pace is certainly a bit slower with an upscale feel.  Unlike Siesta Key, rentals are generally longer term which contributes to a sense that time spent on this beach is less ‘touristy’ than many other Florida beaches.  Most of the access points to the beach require residency so the influx of tourists just popping over for a day at the beach are kept to a minimum. This approach really expands the possibility of a truly relaxing time for both seasonal and year-round residents.

The Longboat Key Club, located at the south end of the key is a five-star resort with accommodations for the most demanding visitors.

Sunset on Longboat is like nothing you have ever experianced
Sunset on Longboat Key
Like nothing else in this world!

If you are a bit more budget minded, real estate at the northern end of Longboat Key can offer some incredible values.  There are plenty of island shops and restaurants in Bradenton Beach to choose from.  The  bay side condos with deeded beach access might just be something special and quite affordable.   

 

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