Longboat Key Neighborhood Guide

Longboat Key (for locals…LBK!) – is a coveted and beautiful barrier island of Sarasota known for its stunning ten-mile stretch of white sand beaches, tranquil atmosphere, upscale resorts, and peaceful, idyllic coastal setting. Longboat is far enough from the mainland of Sarasota to provide a feeling of being miles from the commotion of daily life, while being a little over a mile from world class shopping and restaurants in St. Armands Circle and just four miles from mainland Sarasota. 

Longboat Key is the only barrier island of Sarasota with a world-class resort, The Longboat Key Club which includes a resort hotel, 45-hole championship golf course, tennis/pickleball courts, 5 restaurants, a full spa, a private beach, and the largest deep-water marina on the west coast of Florida, The Moorings (291 slips). The “Club” is private, with a membership to the Longboat Key Club necessary to enjoy golf and the many amenities. Hotel guests staying at the Resort at the Longboat Key Club can also play golf/tennis/pickleball for a nominal fee. As you can imagine, the 410-acre property encompassing the Longboat Key Club is an essential factor in making “LBK” one of Sarasota’s most coveted barrier islands.  

Another major factor in maintaining the relaxed, private feel of the island is the fact that LBK is its own incorporated entity (Town of Longboat Key), is very well managed, and supports strict limits on short-term rentals. Typically, rentals have a one-month minimum with many of the more prominent communities requiring a three-month minimum. This differs greatly across the other islands with Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island having a more lenient view, allowing weekly or in some circumstances daily rentals.      

The Residences at The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is the newest addition to the island and is located on LBK’s south end. This 5-star oceanfront community features a 166-room luxury hotel and 69 private residences and is planned to complete construction in late 2024.

The island has a mix of permanent residents and seasonal visitors who enjoy its unique blend of beachfront living and small-town charm. The beautiful white sand beaches and predominately shallow water is great for swimming and enjoying all type of water sports with your family.  

There is no large public beach on LBK, but there are 12 public beach access points throughout the island for those coming to enjoy the beach for the day. The access points are typically limited in size and available parking and in some cases no parking is available. The beach access at Bayfront Park offers the most generous parking facility and there is a pedestrian signaled walkway to cross Gulf of Mexico drive to the beach.   

As you can imagine, the boating lifestyle on LBK is what dreams are made of. Whether you are looking for a single-family home or condo, there are many options to have a boat at your fingertips. For example, the bay-side development of Country Club Shores on LBK’s south end, is composed of approximately 400 homes located on 19 canals, which are wide enough to accommodate sizable lifts and all types of watercraft. If you are considering condominium life, there are several bay-side communities that have boat slips/lifts available for their residents. There are also two marinas on the island that offer boat storage, Cannons Marina and the Boathouse on Longboat, if you want easy access to your watercraft.

LBK boasts a single gas station, "Mobil," located right next to the premier real estate broker, LBKathy.com, at 440 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Beach Access Points

• 2825 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• 3175 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• 3355 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• 3495 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• 4001 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• 4711 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• 6399 Gulfside Road
• 6847 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• 100 Broadway Street
• 7055 Seabreeze Avenue
• 100 North Shore Road

Parks

• Bayfront Park – 4052 Gulf of Mexico Drive – dog park
• Bicentennial Park – 2730 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• Joan M Durante Park – 5550 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• Overlook Park – 101 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• Quick Point Nature Preserve – 100 Gulf of Mexico Drive

Although LBK is not densely developed, there is still a rich variety of dining options, ranging from casual beachfront eateries to fine dining establishments. There are many options, but here are some local favorites: 

(Remember, the most popular local fish is grouper, snapper, and Gulf shrimp) 

• Harry’s Continental Kitchen and Deli – A 40 year fixture on the island, Harry’s is not just a casual fine dining restaurant, but also a separate deli, and corner store.  The restaurant has a very solid menu and the fish is locally sourced for freshness - the grouper and snapper will never disappoint.  The deli has great “made to order” sandwiches, salads, and don’t forget the dessert – their key lime pie is fantastic. If you are busy but want great food, try the pre-made “take and bake” dinners for two from the deli – 20 minutes in the oven and you have a restaurant quality meal.  Look for weekly specials on wine and food – there is usually some type of “deal” available.  The corner store is much more than a convenience store with everything from beach toys to high end grocery items. Reservations for the restaurant are recommended. 
  
  
• The Shore – If you want to have exceptional food and watch the boats stream across Sarasota Bay in a “beach chic” setting then the Shore on Longboat Key is for you.  One of the most popular restaurants on the island with a sizeable bar, and an extensive dock that can handle an impressive amount sizeable boats or watercraft (first come first served).  The Shore on Longboat (there is also a St Armands location), is a relatively new restaurant and has a great “open” feeling to it.  Whether you are seated outside or inside, you feel like you are sitting on the dock.  The food is one of the most consistent on the island, the service typically very efficient, and they have talented bartenders who make excellent cocktails. If you are approaching by car, just watch your speed on Broadway Ave as it is 20MPH and is strictly patrolled. Reservations are highly recommended.  Valet parking is free. 
  
  
• Mar Vista Dockside – is one of the only LBK bayside restaurants that has an outside area that you can dine with your feet in the sand and watch the beautiful bay water lap at the shore. You can come to Mar Vista by land or by sea with their 14 slip dock ready to accommodate your boat or watercraft. This very casual dining experience and has an old Floria feel while producing delicious modernized southern food. The recently remodeled restaurant has a country flair and incorporates a covered deck, or sit under the Buttonwood Trees overlooking picturesque Sarasota Bay.  The menu has a good mix of appetizers and entrees, but there is one appetizer you can’t miss – the tater tots!   The locally sourced ingredients and pleasant waitstaff make Mar Vista a great place to enjoy casual dining on LBK.  Seating is first come – first served. No reservations are available. 
  
  
• Whitney’s – If you are looking for ultra casual dining, but want top quality food and drinks, then Whitney’s is a great choice.  Whitney’s is a favorite whether you are coming up from the beach, finishing a day of boating, or just out and about and want to relax with great food and drink. Don’t let the casual atmosphere fool you – Whiteny’s serves exceptional quality food and has one of the best burgers on the island.   Choose your preferred seating inside at the bar or tables, or opt for the outside seating to dine and listen to live music on the weekends.  When the sun goes down, the outside area comes alive and is a wonderful after dinner retreat with friends and family. Seating is first come - first served, no reservations available. 
  
  
• The Lazy Lobster - The Lazy Lobster is another of Longboat Key’s premier restaurants.  The restaurant serves fresh lobster which is flown in daily from Maine, as well as local fish and a variety of other popular items. You will never be disappointed with the grouper, snapper, flounder, or any of the local favorites, but if you have a craving for surf & turf, try the Baby Back ribs and Big Bang shrimp! There is ample seating in the main dining room, a full seated bar, and an outside terrace perfect for brunch or romantic dining. After dining, Tyler’s ice cream next door is a local favorite and is sure to put a smile on your face. Reservations are highly recommended.    
  
  
• Dry Dock Waterfront Grille -The award-winning Dry Dock restaurant is one of the most popular restaurants on LBK. Connected to a marina, Dry Dock has several slips available to guests arriving by water.  With two levels of seating inside as well as substantial seating in the bar area, the Dry Dock also incorporates a ground level terrace for al fresco dining right on Sarasota bay.  The menu primarily concentrates on seafood, and you can rest assured it’s local and extraordinarily fresh. For the land-lover the filet and ribeye steaks are arguably the best on the island, and can be paired with a Crab Cake, Bacon Wrapped Scallops, or lobster tails.  The views of Sarasota and the bay are spectacular from the second level dining room, and chances are that you will see dolphins meandering in the bay close to the restaurant. With over 13,000 reviews and a 4.8/5.0 rating it is no wonder the Dry Dock was rated in the top 100 Best Al Fresco Restaurants in America. The boat slips are first come – first served and no matter when you go, you will always need reservations (walk-ins are welcome but the wait can be lengthy). If you are staying at a hotel, ask the concierge to call ahead. 

FINE DINING

• Euphemia Haye – Euphemia Haye was established in 1975 by Les Buntin who named it after his grandmother, Euphemia. It was created as a dining establishment that combined a warm, friendly ambiance with outstanding service and an imaginative menu that used only the finest foods available. This is casual fine dining at its best!  If your plans include a celebration or just drinks and dessert Euphemia Haye has all bases covered.  Downstairs in the main dining room you will enjoy an eclectic a la carte menu in one of the casually elegant fine dining rooms overlooking a tropical garden studded with twinkling lights. Frequently voted as one of the area’s most romantic restaurants, the quaint cottage ambiance is suitable for friends and coworkers as well as a newly married couple.  Upstairs, the Haye Loft features an award-winning dessert room and upscale lounge with friendly bartenders who are mixing up new and classic drinks with top-shelf liquors. This old school classic tavern scene is one of the best hidden gem bars on Longboat Key.  Reservations are highly recommended. 
  
  
• Maison Blanche - or “white house” in French, embodies the ultimate in sophistication; simple yet elegant, a modern but still-classic approach to dining. Maison blanche enjoys a reputation as the best restaurant in the Sarasota area and one of the finest in the state of Florida due to the consistent high quality of food and service. Adjoined to the Four Winds Beach Resort, Maison Blanche is a relatively small intimate restaurant, with an elegant but chic interior and matching atmosphere. Be immersed in a true French experience, from the flawlessly prepared food to the staff that are serving the best of what their home country offers. It’s no surprise that Maison Blanche has earned such awards as ZAGAT’s Top 100 restaurants in America and Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence 2020. Reservations are highly recommended. 

OTHER RESTAURANTS

• Chart House
• La Norma
• Bayou Tavern
• Old Salty Dog

SNACKS/WINE SHOPS/GROCERY SHOP

• Harry’s Deli and Bakery – 20% off all wines on Wednesday & Thursday
• Harry’s Corner Store – 5600 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• LBK Liquors – fantastic selection and matches all Publix prices
• Publix – 525 Bay Isles Pkwy
• Ace Hardware – 4030 Gulf of Mexico Drive
• CVS Pharmacy – 505 Bay Isles Pkwy

SHOPPING

With St. Armand’s Circle less than one mile from the south end of LBK, there is limited shopping on the island itself.  
 

• McLauglin - 515 Bay Isles Pkwy, LBK. Offering clothes and accessories. Located in the Shoppes at Bay Isles, J. McLauglin offers contemporary to casual chic clothing and accessories, whether you are heading to the beach or the yacht club J. McLauglin has you covered. Both ladies and men’s attire are available.
  
  
• Exit Art - 201 Gulf of Mexico Drive LBK. Jewelry, Apparel and Kitchen accessories. Located in the ground level of the Chart House restaurant complex. This is an eclectic store with a wide variety of products ranging from local artisan jewelry, clothing and accessories, kitchen accoutrements, and some select pieces of furniture. Artistic design is the theme at Exit Art and if you are looking for a unique gift this is a great place to start. 

LONGBOAT TENNIS CENTER OFFERS:

• 10 Courts
• Round Robin League
• Lessons
• Video Analysis
• Certified Instructors
• Clinics
• Full-Service Pro Shop

Learn More

THE RESORT AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB - GOLF COURSE

• Only resort guests & members can enjoy the amenities.
• The only 45-hole course is set between the beautiful backdrop of the Island course to the lush marina of the Harbour side course.
• As a member of LBK Resort Club, Kathy can schedule private tours for guests interested in joining.
• The resort boasts the largest deep-water marina for yachts 125’ length.

Learn More

BIKE RENTAL

• Backyard Bike Shops
• Ride & Paddle
• ACE Hardware

PADDLEBOARD & KAYAK RENTAL

• Longboat key paddleboard and kayak
• Kayak Jack’s Paddle Sports
• Sarasota Paddleboard Company
• Happy Paddler Kayak Tours & EcoVentures

PLACES OF INTEREST

• Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
• Save Our Seabirds
• Ken Thompson Park

CITY OF LONGBOAT KEY

• Welcome Center
• Zoning & Permits
• Butterfly Garden
• Book Exchange

Longboat Key offers a variety of educational options for families, ranging from public to private institutions, ensuring that students receive high-quality education tailored to their needs. While the island itself is primarily residential and does not have its own schools, it is conveniently located near excellent educational facilities in the surrounding areas.

Public Schools The public schools serving Longboat Key residents fall under the highly-regarded Sarasota County School District. Nearby institutions such as Southside Elementary School, and Sarasota High School are known for their strong academic programs, diverse extracurricular activities, and supportive learning environments. These schools consistently receive high ratings for their commitment to student achievement and community involvement.

Private Schools For families seeking private education, several prestigious private schools are within easy reach of Longboat Key. The Out-of-Door Academy, with campuses in nearby Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch, offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Another notable institution is St. Stephen's Episcopal School, which provides a well-rounded education with an emphasis on academic excellence, spiritual growth, and character development.

Charter Schools Charter schools in the region offer additional educational choices, combining the flexibility of private education with the accountability of public schools. Among these, Sarasota School of Arts and Sciences and Suncoast School for Innovative Studies stand out for their innovative teaching methods and strong community partnerships.

Higher Education For higher education, Longboat Key residents have access to several esteemed colleges and universities nearby, including New College of Florida, known for its liberal arts curriculum, and the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Longboat Key boasts a vibrant cultural scene that enriches the lives of residents and visitors alike. The island’s proximity to Sarasota, a hub of artistic and cultural activities, greatly enhances its offerings.

Museums and Galleries While Longboat Key itself is more residential and resort-focused, nearby Sarasota hosts a plethora of renowned cultural institutions. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is a must-visit, featuring an extensive collection of European paintings, contemporary art, and circus memorabilia. Additionally, the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, although currently closed, has long been a cornerstone for community art initiatives and classes.

Theaters The island is just a short drive away from Sarasota’s thriving theater district, including the Asolo Repertory Theatre, which presents a diverse range of performances from classical plays to contemporary works. The Sarasota Opera House, with its grand architecture, is another cultural gem offering world-class opera productions.

Cultural Events and Festivals Longboat Key and its neighboring areas host several notable cultural events throughout the year. The Sarasota Film Festival is a major event attracting filmmakers and cinephiles from around the globe. The Ringling International Arts Festival, held annually, showcases a variety of performances including dance, music, and theater, celebrating global arts.

Local Events On Longboat Key, the annual Longboat Key Garden Club’s Home and Garden Tour is a beloved event where residents open their spectacular homes and gardens to the public. The St. Armands Circle Art Festival, just a short drive away, is another highlight, featuring hundreds of artists and attracting art lovers from far and wide.

Community Activities The Longboat Key Education Center offers a wide range of classes and lectures in arts, literature, and humanities, fostering a strong sense of community engagement. Weekly farmers' markets and seasonal festivals further enhance the island’s cultural landscape, providing opportunities for locals to gather and celebrate their vibrant community.