Longboat Key, a slender barrier island stretching along Florida's Gulf Coast, is a haven of pristine beaches, lush natural beauty, and refined charm. As summer approaches, this idyllic destination truly comes alive, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Here are the top five things to do in Longboat Key this summer:
1. Bask on the Breathtaking Beaches of Longboat Key
If you're dreaming of soft white sand, gentle Gulf breezes, and crystal-clear water, Longboat Key delivers in every way. With miles of pristine shoreline, this island paradise is home to some of Florida’s most tranquil and scenic beaches—and they’re just steps away from many RVA Resort Vacations properties.
Longboat Key boasts 12 miles of dazzling white-sand beaches and clear, tranquil turquoise waters. Public beach access points are available along Gulf of Mexico Drive. For a more secluded experience, Whitney Beach on the northern end is a local favorite, known for its fantastic shelling.
Beer Can Island (also known as Greer Island) offers picturesque driftwood and excellent shelling. Spend your days sunbathing, swimming, or strolling along the shore, keeping an eye out for playful dolphins.
What Makes Longboat Key Beaches So Special?
- Secluded & Serene: Unlike Florida’s busier beach towns, Longboat Key offers a more peaceful escape. You’ll find plenty of space to stretch out, unwind, and truly relax.
- Sugar-Soft Sand: The powdery white sand is ideal for lounging, building sandcastles, or enjoying a barefoot walk along the water’s edge.
- Warm Gulf Waters: Calm, swimmable waters make it perfect for wading, swimming, or floating the day away.
- Shelling Paradise: Keep an eye out for beautiful shells—especially in the early morning hours after high tide.
- Gulf Views All Day Long: Whether you're soaking up the sun or enjoying the gentle sound of waves, these beaches are your front-row seat to paradise.
Beach Day Tips:
- Bring sunscreen, water, and a good book
- Chairs and umbrellas are recommended for midday sun
- Pack a cooler and make it a beach picnic
- Stay for the sunset—it’s absolutely worth it
From sunrise strolls to sunset views, the beaches of Longboat Key offer the ultimate coastal escape. Whether you spend an hour or an entire day, this is where unforgettable vacation memories are made.
Book your RVA Resort Vacation today, and let the beach be your backyard.
2. Embrace the Water with Kayaking and Paddleboarding
The calm, clear waters around Longboat Key are perfect for exploring by kayak or paddleboard. This offers an intimate way to discover the island's diverse marine life and lush mangrove ecosystems. You might spot coastal birds, manatees, and dolphins. Bayfront Park is a popular launch point for these adventures. See below for more about Bayfront Park! Even better if you can stay to catch the sunset from your own private floating perch or your very own Longboat Key vacation rental!
3. Enjoy Family Time in the Jungle or Sea
The Longboat Key area offers an array of family-friendly activities to keep the kiddos entertained.
Just a short drive from Longboat Key,is Sarasota Jungle Gardens. Open 363 days a year has tons of exhibits, flamingos, interative activites, animal shows, and a petting zoo for kids of all ages to enjoy.
Learn more about Sarasota Jungle Gardens here.
Also just a short drive away on City Island in Sarasota, is the renowned Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. This non-profit marine research organization offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Get up close with fascinating marine animals, including sharks, sea turtles, and a beloved resident manatee. The exhibits provide insights into ongoing marine research and conservation efforts.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is moving from its current location on City Island to Nathan Benderson Park to become Mote SEA and will close after July 3rd. Learn more here. Sign up to receive the latest updates!
Learn more about Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium here.
4. Discover Bayfront Park
This waterfront gem offers something for everyone—whether you're seeking active recreation or peaceful relaxation with a view.
Here’s what you can enjoy during your visit:
Play & Stay Active
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Tennis & Pickleball Courts: Get your game on at the park’s well-maintained courts.
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Playground Fun: Let the kids burn off some energy on the playground while you take in the bay breeze.
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Dog Park: Traveling with a pup? The park has separate fenced areas for large and small dogs to run and play.
Waterfront Adventures
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Kayak & Canoe Launch: Bring your kayak or rent one locally to explore the calm waters of Sarasota Bay.
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Fishing: Cast a line from the shoreline (don’t forget your Florida saltwater fishing license).
Relax & Reconnect
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Picnic Spots: Unwind under the shade with a packed lunch at one of the picnic tables.
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Bay Views: Sit back and soak in the beautiful views of Sarasota Bay—sunsets here are not to be missed!
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Recreation Center: Check out seasonal programs, fitness classes, and community events at the on-site Bayfront Park Recreation Center.
Know Before You Go
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Open Daily: 8 AM to dusk
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Parking: Plenty of free parking available
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Restrooms: Clean and conveniently located
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Public Beach Access: Right across the street
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No Alcohol Allowed: Per Town of Longboat Key guidelines
Whether you’re in the mood to be active or simply want to relax by the water, Bayfront Park is a local favorite for good reason. Just minutes from many of our vacation properties, it's a perfect outing for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to enjoy Longboat Key's natural beauty.
Planning your visit? Make Bayfront Park part of your Gulf Coast getaway itinerary!
5. Take in the Stunning Sunset
No visit to Longboat Key is complete without taking in one of our area's breathtaking sunsets—a daily display of natural beauty that turns the sky into a masterpiece of color.
Whether you're relaxing on the sand, enjoying dinner at a bayside restaurant, or strolling along the shore, sunset is a time when Longboat Key slows down and soaks up the moment.
Best Ways to Enjoy the Sunset:
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Beachfront Bliss: Head to the beach with a chair, your favorite drink, and let the Gulf views do the rest. Our guests love the easy access from many of our RVA vacation properties.
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Evening Picnic: Pack a light dinner and enjoy it on the beach or at Bayfront Park for a peaceful, picturesque meal.
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Sunset Cruise: Book a local sunset sailing or dolphin cruise for panoramic water views and unforgettable photo ops.
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Walk & Watch: A simple beach walk at dusk can be one of the most relaxing and memorable moments of your stay.
Why Sunsets Are So Special Here
Longboat Key’s west-facing beaches offer uninterrupted views over the Gulf of Mexico, making it one of the best places on Florida’s Gulf Coast to catch the sun as it dips below the horizon. Each evening brings a different blend of orange, pink, lavender, and gold—no two sunsets are ever the same.
Tip: Arrive about 30 minutes before the scheduled sunset time to settle in and enjoy the full show.
At RVA Resort Vacations, we believe the best moments of your getaway are often the simplest. Don’t miss the chance to experience a Longboat Key sunset—it’s the perfect way to end your day in paradise.
Places to Stay in Longboat Key
Looking for a place to stay in Longboa Key? From beachfront cottages and condos, to tennis resorts and stunning waterfront estates, we have something for everyone. Check out our Longboat Key vacation rentals here.
Longboat Key truly shines in the summer, offering an array of activities that cater to every interest. From sun-drenched beaches and invigorating water sports to captivating marine life and upscale urban delights, your summer getaway to this Gulf Coast paradise promises to be unforgettable.