Directions to Longboat Key

Longboat key is a barrier island off the coast of Sarasota and Bradenton, approximately 60 miles South of Tampa. It is easily accessible by car from Sarasota/Bradenton Airport as well as Tampa/Clearwater Airport and St. Pete Airport.

Coming from the North you can reach Longboat Key through Bradenton by way of exit #41 off Interstate 75. When travelling from the South, use Exit #39 West to US. 41.

Local Amenities

Stretching 11 miles between the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, Longboat Key offers an idyllic beach and bay front setting. Average year round 75 Fahrenheit/24 Celsius degree temperatures make this island conducive to swimming, tennis, golf, fishing, and boating. The island is surrounded by 7 first-class golf courses and boasts many public as well as private tennis facilities.

Cannons Marina, just down the road from North Shore Cabana, rents party boats and fishing boats plus water ski and tubing equipment. There are numerous locations for Jet Ski rentals and parasailing for those who want to "rise to the heavens."

Charter a boat with or without a captain and explore the area's many bays and backwaters, take to the ocean for deep sea fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

Cultural Attractions

Nearby Sarasota offers a vast array of arts and cultural attractions. The acclaimed Sarasota Ballet of Florida offers a repertoire of classical and modern dance performances throughout the year.

The Asolo Theatre is home to one of the area's leading regional theatrical companies. Many theatrical companies in Sarasota and on the Keys, offer varied programs of interest both comedic and dramatic.

The newly restored Opera House of Sarasota offers a classical repertoire of great quality throughout the season.

The Ringling Museum boasts a fine art collection as well as a circus museum celebrating its founder's unique past.

Science and the Environment

Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, located at the South end of Longboat Key is a world-renowned marine research centre which offers a fascinating array of marine life for viewing. The 30-foot Touch Tank and 350,000 Shark Tank bring visitors face-to-face with a variety of shark species, fish, and marine life.

For youngsters, downtown Sarasota offers the Gee Whiz Science Museum.

Those seeking a pleasant and unique nature outing will enjoy the 40-minute drive to Myakka State Park where an excellent park service narrated boat tour escorts visitors on a lake filled with approximately 1,200 alligators.

Shopping

Shopping areas abound in and around Longboat Key from the world-renowned St. Armands Circle which offers over 140 shops, boutiques, and restaurants that radiate out and around a circular park to the elegant Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy's of Southgate Mall. For those fond of outlet shopping there are the Outlet Shoppes at Ellenton. The city of Sarasota itself abounds with historically preserved buildings filled with boutiques featuring jewellery, art, and antiques. These can be found on Main, Palm, Orange, and Pineapple Avenues.

Dining

Legendary fine dining can be found on and off the key, ranging from casual seafood restaurants to five-star continental cuisine. There are choices for every taste and every budget.