Longboat Key sits near a narrow barrier island along the western coast of Florida between Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Nearly 7,000 residents live in Longboat Key, and thousands of tourists will visit the area to take advantage of the tremendous climate and the fabulous resorts. If you’re looking for the best Longboat Key things to do, you have come to the right place. In this article, you’ll learn about some of the best Longboat Key attractions to check out when you first arrive in town.

This public beach offers visitors a number of opportunities for fun and enjoyment. You can swim in the clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, or you can rent a beach chair and lounge under the warm Florida sun. You’ll find several shared picnic areas near the beach complete with BBQ grills. Some will prefer to fish along the pier, and others will want to check out the local wildlife and vegetation along the area’s many nature trails. If you enjoy friendly competition, you can round up a group for a game of beach volleyball and soccer. Restroom and shower facilities are available on-site to access as you need them. 

Beer Can Island is a National Natural Landmark that sits along the Longboat Pass Stairway. It’s only accessible by boat, but the beautiful white sand and the undisturbed natural beauty make the excursion worth it. You’ll look out over the clear blue water and see manatees splashing around, and you’ll enjoy a beach that is relatively uncrowded by area standards despite its allure and popularity. Most locals agree that Beer Can Island is one of the best Longboat Key attractions, and you won’t want to leave town without paying a visit.

This delicious local restaurant is well-known throughout the region for its high-quality steak and seafood. Guests will enjoy tremendous gulf views as they dine at this waterfront restaurant. Each person has their choice of eating in the gorgeous indoor dining room or on the outdoor terrace. Their expansive drink menu includes a wide variety of beer and wine choices in addition to several hand-crafted cocktail options. You can begin your meal with the shrimp cocktail or oysters on the half shell before digging into a main course of spiced ahi or teriyaki sirloin steak. Just make sure you save room for the hot chocolate lava cake at the end of the meal and don’t forget to ask for the seasonal house-made ice cream on top. 

This iconic local resort sits along the water and gives each person an opportunity to escape the ordinary. Whether you prefer to play a round on their majestic golf course or utilize their award-winning tennis courts, you’ll marvel at the state-of-the-art facilities this resort has to offer. The golf course includes 45 holes and was recently honored by Golf Digest as one of their best places to play. Many of the fairways on the Links of Longboat Course border the Gulf of Mexico, while the Harbourside Golf Course contains plenty of mature trees and views of Sarasota Bay. You can also indulge in the onsite spa that works hard to cater to every aspect of each person’s well-being. Don’t miss this local treasure.

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium is an aquarium and marine research facility located near Longboat Key. Their displays include a wide range of interactive exhibits that allow each guest to learn more about marine life on the Gulf Coast and around the world. Children will especially enjoy the touch tanks where they can get closer to various species of fish and invertebrates than they ever have before. They also provide a number of aquatic adventures with experiences that include dolphin-watching trips, sea turtle encounters, and snorkeling excursions. They regularly offer special educational programs for guests of all ages. Visit their website to access a full calendar of upcoming events and to learn about any special presentations that may be on the horizon. 

St. Armands Circle is an island off the coast of Sarasota Bay connected to the mainland by John Ringling Causeway. You’ll find a wide assortment of shops, restaurants, and spas when you visit. The atmosphere is simultaneously relaxed and elegant. You’ll experience a variety of new discoveries as you walk the beautiful streets and observe all that the area has to offer. Visiting St. Armands Circle is guaranteed to provide an unforgettable experience for each person.

Joan M. Durante Park stretches across 32 acres two miles north of Longboat Key. The park was named after private donor James Duarte, who put forth $750,000 to develop a park in honor of his late wife. As construction began, every effort was made to protect the natural vegetation present in the area, such as the area’s live oaks and red cedar trees. A children’s playground was completed in 2014 using sustainable and recycled materials. This playset has the look and feel of real wood but does not require the same level of maintenance. You’ll also find a fishing pier and multiple hiking trails at the park, along with plenty of spots perfect for bird-watching. Feel free to pack a picnic and set up for lunch at one of the park’s shared picnic facilities. 

After you experience the best of what Longboat Key has to offer, you may start to dream about making a move to the area. If that time comes, reach out to Becky Sirigotis. Becky enjoys sharing her firsthand knowledge with her clients as they shop for real estate along Florida’s gulf coast. Becky specializes in luxury homes, and her experience equips her to handle each step of the process with poise and success. Contact Becky if you have questions about buying or selling Longboat Key real estate and she will be happy to help you however she can.