Longboat Key Florida : An Active & Diverse Beachfront Housing Market

Longboat Key is unique in many ways. As the only barrier island belonging to both Manatee and Sarasota counties, this is the only municipality to be officially designated as a town. It is also the only isle of the Sarasota Keys to have its own country club complete with an 18-hole golf course, and it is considered by many to be the most active and diverse beachfront housing market in Southwest Florida.

This long and narrow barrier island can be accessed from Anna Maria Island to the north and Lido Key to the south. Longboat Key is not directly connected to the mainland of Florida; it is accessed from Sarasota via the John Ringling Causeway and from South Bradenton via Cortez Road.

The island’s sheer natural beauty and miles of sugary sand beaches attract many visitors throughout the year, but this does not disrupt the tranquil life of residents since the coastline stretches out 11 miles from one end to another. The Town of Longboat Key is traversed by Gulf of Mexico Drive, which is the sole main thoroughfare.

House hunters who visit Longboat Key can choose their lifestyle. The more historic neighborhoods are located on the Sarasota Bay side, and they are mostly single-family residences and waterfront estates. Lavish resorts can be found on the Gulf of Mexico side, and the Longboat Key Golf Club is located between these neighborhoods. Further north on the island there are more residential communities that range from beach cottages to Key West-style mansions and from high-rise condominium towers to luxury townhouses. Many neighborhoods have been developed around certain themes such as tennis, boating, fishing, and nature exploration.

The Town of Longboat Key has various amenities and conveniences to make the lives of residents pleasant without having to leave the island. The Avenue of the Flowers Town Plaza is a shopping district that features a Publix Fresh Market flagship supermarket that specializes in gourmet and organic items at great prices. Quite a few restaurants can be found on the island, but St. Armands Circle offers even more dining and shopping just minutes away.