A Traveler's Guide to All Things Longboat Key

Stretching for 12 miles between the Gulf and Sarasota Bay, Longboat Key offers a quieter side of Florida's Gulf Coast. Like all Florida Keys, it has a distinct flavor all its own. It is known for beautifully secluded beaches and exclusive resorts, but there are certainly a bounty of public places for all to explore and other attractions and activities. 

Relax on Longboat Beach

Longboat Key is known for its peaceful and pristine shoreline. With 12 public beach access points along Gulf of Mexico Drive, visitors can spread out and enjoy wide stretches of sugar-white sand. Unlike many public beaches, Longboat Key feels wonderfully residential and uncrowded, making it ideal for long walks, shelling, dolphin spotting and sunset picnics. 

Photo courtesy of The Resort at Longboat Key

Keep in mind that there are no lifeguards on duty (nor are there public bathrooms). Most access points offer limited facilities and amenities, so plan ahead by bringing snacks, water, chairs and anything else you'll need for the day. 

For a more convenient option, consider staying at one of Longboat's luxury resorts or beachfront hotels for private beach access and amenities like umbrellas, lounge chairs and food service. 

Shop, Stroll & Slow Down

Longboat Key is less about checking attractions off a list and more about embracing a slower pace. Browse local boutiques such as Swim City, Driftwood Beach Home & Garden, Shore and Longboat Resort Wear. 

After finding a new sunhat or swimsuit, unwind with a spa treatment at one of the island's luxury resorts or simply settle into an Adirondack chair overlooking the Gulf with your favorite book. 

If you're looking to venture just beyond the island, St. Armands Circle is only minutes away for upscale shopping, art galleries and more—an easy drive just across the New Pass bridge into Lido Key.

Explore The Ecology

Longboat Key's natural beauty extends well beyond its beaches. Launch a kayak and wind through quiet mangrove tunnels adjacent to Bayfront Park with Happy Paddler Kayak Adventures & EcoTours. Paddlers often spot manatees and dolphins feeding around the mangrove forests, and explore around the Audubon Sanctuary Islands for a close-up view of the seabirds.

Quick Point Nature Preserve

Nature lovers can also explore Quick Point Nature Preserve at the entrance of the key. This hidden waterfront park offers walking trails, tidal pools, native vegetation and boardwalks with panoramic views across Sarasota Bay.

Anglers have plenty of options as well. Cast a line from the waters around New Pass Bridge or nearby Ken Thompson Park, then stop by New Pass Grill & Bait Shop for tackle, bait and one of Sarasota's most iconic waterfront breakfasts.

Have A Bite (Or Many Bites)

Despite its laid-back vibe, Longboat Key punches well above its weight when it comes to dining. Visitors staying at The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort can also enjoy multiple dining concepts and experiences ranging from contemporary steakhouse and handcrafted sushi to refined Italian fare and beachfront cocktails overlooking the Gulf.

CW Prime restaurant, courtesy of St. Regis Longboat Key

At Shore LBK, boaters and diners alike gather for New American dishes and craft cocktails just steps from the water. For a special occasion, Euphemia Haye remains one of Sarasota's most beloved fine-dining restaurants inside a charming cottage known for its French cuisine, romantic atmosphere and fresh-daily desserts from The Haye Loft upstairs.

Seafood lovers can enjoy elegant waterfront views at Chart House, where fresh Gulf catches, prime steaks and sunset cocktails pair perfectly with Sarasota Bay vistas. For something slightly more casual, Harry's Continental Kitchens has been a neighborhood favorite for decades, serving everything from fresh seafood and sandwiches to weekend brunch, while Dry Dock Waterfront Grill remains a boater's delight for its dock-and-dine bayside setting and surf-and-turf menu.

For coffee, juices and smoothies before the beach, head to indoor-outdoor cafe, SIPS. After your fill of sand and sun, Whitney's awaits with Old Florida charm, tropical drinks, live music and a relaxed surf vibe. 

Get Active on the Water, Court & Greens

Whether you're looking for friendly competition or leisurely exploration, Longboat Key offers plenty of ways to stay active.

Guests of The Resort at Longboat Key Club can tee off on two acclaimed golf courses, play on award-winning tennis and pickleball courts or launch a boat from the resort's deep-water marina. If you're not a Club member or staying at the resort, you can strike up a friendly game of racquet sports or basketball at the public Bayfront Park. 

Cyclists will find miles of scenic roads and bike lanes stretching the length of the island, offering gorgeous views of waterfront homes, marinas and blue water on both sides of the key. Boaters can rent vessels through nearby marinas or book private yacht charters to explore Sarasota Bay, Jewfish Key and the surrounding sandbars. 

Where to Stay on Longboat Key

Photo courtesy of Zota Beach Resort

Longboat Key is home to some of Sarasota's most sought-after accommodations. Luxury spots like The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, Zota Beach Resort and The Resort at Longboat Key Club rank among the very best, with five-star service and full-service resort amenities.

Visitors looking for a more intimate stay will also find charming beachfront inns, like Silver Sands Gulf Beach Resort and The Diplomat, plus condominium rentals and vacation homes scattered throughout the island—many offering direct beach access, bicycles and paddleboards for further exploration.

For more trip ideas or places to stay in Longboat Key, head here.