Founded in 1955, the town experienced rapid growth in the 1960s and 1970s and has gradually transformed into a highly sought-after place to reside. Today, it has gained a reputation for its luxurious, private lifestyle, and waterfront amenities.
A number of architectural styles are represented in Longboat Key, equipping potential buyers to find a style that fits their personality. Some of the most popular styles are Mid-Century modern, Mediterranean, and Spanish. Whether you’re on the search for a vacation home or a permanent place of residence, you’ll find plenty of options from which to choose.
Whether you’re new to town or simply passing through, you’ll be met with friendly residents and laid-back coastal energy. It doesn’t take long to feel at home here. Longboat Key appeals to residents from varying backgrounds, including retirees looking to settle down, tourists coming to enjoy a vacation, and golf enthusiasts wanting to be close to the water. With a full-time population of just over 8,000, 12,000 seasonal, and 22,000 in peak season the town still manages to retain the island get-away charm that makes it so unique.
If shopping is your guilty pleasure, then you can look forward to all that Longboat Key has in store for you. The Center Shops are a collection of specialty shops mid-island, including a handful of unique fashion boutiques. Meanwhile, St. Armands Circle is a shopper’s paradise that’s located just across the bridge from Longboat Key.
Experience rest and relaxation at The Resort at Longboat Key Club. Unwind in one of the 226 luxury guest rooms and suites and take advantage of the spa, award-winning golf courses and tennis courts, state-of-the-art fitness center, and five restaurants and lounges. In fact, any Sarasota resident can become a member of the club to enjoy all of the amenities year-round.
Wine and dine at Chart House, known for its sweeping waterfront views and unique cuisine. Famous for its seafood and steak, this high-end restaurant is a vacation spot in and of itself. For a more casual experience, book a table at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill. The menu specializes in seafood specialties with indoor and outdoor dining options overlooking Sarasota Bay.
If you’re looking for a staycation, pack up your bags and spend the weekend at Silver Sands Gulf Beach Resort. Located beachfront, you can spend your days taking a dip in the heated beachside pool, practicing your golf game, taking a stroll through the perfectly manicured gardens, or enjoying top-notch cuisine.
Residents and locals alike can take advantage of endless opportunities to connect with nature. The town boasts 12 miles of white sand beaches, with Whitney Beach and Beer Can Island being among some of the most popular. Those looking for an outdoor adventure can check out Joan M. Durante Park, which expands over 32 acres. Open dawn to dusk, the park comprises a wetland and coastal dune forest, highlighting the area’s incredible biodiversity.
Longboat Key is a paradise for tennis and golf enthusiasts, boasting thought-provoking courses with scenic backdrops. Book a tee time at The Resort at Longboat Key Club, which serves as Florida’s premier golf resort. In fact, it’s even earned Golf Digest’s prestigious “Best Places to Play” award. The course consists of 45 holes, challenging even the most seasoned golfer. Their Tennis Courses have been rated #1 by Gulf Coast Florida (Tennis Magazine) and #4 Top Tennis Resort in the World by Tennis Resorts.
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