Escape to Longboat Key, a serene Florida barrier island renowned for its uncrowded beaches, balmy breezes, and laid-back charm—just minutes from vibrant Sarasota.
Longboat Key, a barrier island stretching between Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, is one of Florida’s most enchanting destinations. Known for its white-sand beaches, upscale dining, and tranquil atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind while still being close to cultural attractions in Sarasota and the vibrant charm of Anna Maria Island. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a group getaway, here’s your complete guide to staying, dining, and playing in paradise.
Where to Stay on Longboat Key
Resorts on Longboat Key
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The Beach on Longboat Key
Nestled directly on the Gulf’s white sands, this cozy beachfront condominium complex offers private balconies, direct beach access, and modern South‑Beach–style décor—minus the crowds and noise.
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Cedars Tennis Resort & Club
A bayside, townhouse-style community perfect for active travelers: enjoy Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball, a fitness center, pool, full kitchens, private lanais, and even a seasonal tiki bar and café.
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Beach Castle Resort by RVA
A rare “beach‑to‑bay” retreat with only 21 units stretching between the Gulf and Sarasota Bay. Features spacious 1–3 bedroom condos, private Gulf‑front beach access, a bayside fishing dock, heated pool, hot tub, Wi‑Fi, BBQ picnic areas, lounge chairs, and complimentary amenities.
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Silver Sands Gulf Beach Resort
Positioned right on the Gulf, this relaxing resort offers a heated beachfront pool, private beach access, kitchen-equipped rooms, provided chaise lounges and umbrellas, plus fun touches like shuffleboard courts and a putting green.
Vacation Rentals on Longboat Key
Beyond these incredible Longboat Key resorts, RVA also offers an extensive selection of vacation rental homes and condos throughout Longboat Key. From beachfront condominiums with panoramic Gulf views to spacious multi-bedroom homes perfect for family reunions or group getaways, guests can choose the style that fits their travel needs.
Many rentals come fully furnished with full kitchens, private lanais, pools, and direct beach access, giving you all the comforts of home in a luxury setting.
RVA’s vacation rental portfolio allows visitors to enjoy the flexibility of private accommodations while still having the assurance of professional, award-winning property management.
Where to Eat on Longboat Key
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Euphemia Haye | A romantic, garden‑setting fine‑dining institution since 1979. Be sure to visit the charming upstairs Dessert Room for sweet delights.
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Dry Dock Waterfront Grill and Shore | Both offer exceptional waterfront dining—Dry Dock is award‑winning for al fresco seafood fare, while Shore serves elevated coastal plates with mid‑century flair.
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Whitney’s | A casual café ideal for beach‑side bites, offering fresh salads, tacos, and tiki‑style cocktails at any hour.
Additional local favorites include Lazy Lobster, Lo’Key Island Grille, Mar Vista and Dockside—all perfect for relaxed, quality seafood near the water.
What to Do on Longboat Key
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Frolick in the beaches
With 11 public beach access points along its 12-mile stretch of sugar‑white shores, Longboat Key offers uncrowded, postcard-perfect beach time. -
Kayak through mangroves or spot dolphins and manatees
Guided eco‑tours from Bayfront Park let you paddle through serene mangrove tunnels while keeping an eye out for local wildlife.
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Explore nature preserves
Explore John M. Durante Park, a scenic 32-acre destination along Sarasota Bay that showcases both wetlands and coastal dune forest. Here, visitors can enjoy peaceful hiking trails, shaded picnic spots, and a fishing pier perfect for casting a line. The park has wone a number of awards, including the “1998 Outstanding Ecosystem Restoration Award” from the Florida Urban Forestry Council, the “Public Landscape Award” from the Keep Manatee Beautiful organization, and the “Image Manatee Beautification Award” from the Manatee County Chamber of Commerce.
Just nearby, Quick Point Nature Preserve offers a different kind of adventure with its lush mangroves, winding boardwalks, and tidal pools, all connected by a well-maintained trail system—an ideal place to immerse yourself in the Gulf Coast’s natural beauty.
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Play golf and/or tennis
Cedars Tennis Resort caters to racket sports fans—including tennis and pickleball, while nearby golf courses in Sarasota add another layer of recreation.
Daily and monthly guest passes are available, while all-inclusive membership options are available for unit owners and non-unit owners alike.
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Indulge in arts and culture
Just minutes away, Sarasota offers The Ringling Museum of Art, St. Armands Circle shopping, and a vibrant theater scene. Get more information and tickets here.
Your Longboat Key Getaway Awaits
With its balance of upscale leisure, natural beauty, and small-town charm, Longboat Key is the ideal Gulf Coast destination. Whether you choose a modern retreat at The Beach, an active stay at Cedars Tennis Resort, the classic charm of Beach Castle, the peaceful vibe of Silver Sands, or a private vacation rental home, your RVA property will be the perfect home base for dining, exploring, and soaking up the Florida sun.
Ready to book your Longboat Key vacation? Discover all of RVA’s resorts and vacation rentals today and start planning your unforgettable Gulf Coast escape.