Welcome to Longboat Key
Longboat Key, Florida – Community Overview & Real Estate Guide
Nestled between Sarasota Bay and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Longboat Key is one of Florida’s most exclusive island communities. Known for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, fine dining, and championship golf, this barrier island combines the serenity of coastal living with easy access to Sarasota’s vibrant cultural scene. Longboat Key is a coveted destination for retirees, second-home buyers, and those seeking a refined lifestyle along Florida’s west coast.
Overview of Longboat Key, FL
Stretching 10.8 miles along the Gulf Coast, Longboat Key offers a mix of luxury waterfront estates, sleek condominiums, and private gated communities. Residents enjoy access to world-class boating and fishing, award-winning restaurants, and cultural institutions just minutes away in downtown Sarasota. With white-sand beaches, protected nature preserves, and a strong sense of exclusivity, Longboat Key provides the perfect balance between relaxation, recreation, and upscale living.
| Key Facts about Longboat Key, FL | |
|---|---|
| Area | 10.8 miles long • ~16 sq mi total |
| Counties | Manatee County (north) • Sarasota County (south) |
| Incorporated | 1955 |
| Population (recent est.) | ~7,500 (year-round) • up to 20,000 seasonal residents |
| Notable Features | Exclusive beachfront estates • Gated communities • Luxury condos • Yacht clubs • Golf courses |
| Signature Attractions | Longboat Key Club (golf & tennis) • Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium • Joan M. Durante Park • Gulf beaches • Waterside dining |
| Main Roads | Gulf of Mexico Drive (SR 789) • Bridges to Sarasota & Anna Maria Island |
From its sugar-sand beaches to its upscale dining and exclusive communities, Longboat Key delivers a lifestyle of coastal elegance and privacy. Real estate here is highly sought after, offering enduring value for those seeking either a seasonal retreat or a permanent Gulf-front residence.
Location & Connectivity in Longboat Key
Longboat Key lies along Florida’s Gulf Coast, stretching between Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Renowned for its exclusive waterfront estates, luxury resorts, and miles of pristine beaches, the island offers a private yet connected lifestyle. Its sole roadway, Gulf of Mexico Drive, runs the island’s length and links residents to Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, and Bradenton. While most mobility is by car, boating is also central, with yacht clubs, marinas, and easy Gulf access.
Residents and visitors enjoy quick access to Sarasota’s cultural district, St. Armands Circle, and major airports. With scenic bridges to the mainland, Longboat Key offers both seclusion and seamless connections to Florida’s vibrant Gulf Coast communities.
| Connectivity & Transportation — Longboat Key, FL | |
|---|---|
| Location Map & Island Overview | Barrier island stretching 10.8 miles along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Anchored by white-sand beaches, luxury communities, and waterfront dining. Gulf of Mexico Drive (SR 789) runs the island’s length, linking north to Anna Maria Island and south to Lido Key & Sarasota. |
| Nearby Areas & Communities |
|
| Attractions & Points of Interest |
|
| Public Transport |
|
| Road Access |
|
| Typical Drive Times* |
*Non-peak seasonal traffic estimates
|
| Walking & Cycling | Pedestrian-friendly promenades near resorts and parks. Gulf of Mexico Drive includes bike lanes for cycling. Scenic routes along the bay and Gulf are popular for jogging, biking, and waterfront strolls. |
| Taxi & Ride Apps | Uber and Lyft operate throughout the island. Private shuttles, taxis, and limo services are also widely available, especially for airport transfers and evening outings. |
| Airport Access |
|
| Accessibility & EV | Many resorts, marinas, and restaurants provide ADA-compliant access. EV charging stations are available at select resorts, shopping centers, and marinas on and near the island. |
Longboat Key offers an unmatched blend of exclusivity and accessibility—whether by car, boat, or air, residents enjoy seamless connections to Sarasota’s culture, Gulf Coast attractions, and international travel hubs.
Longboat Key Real Estate Market Trends (2025)
Longboat Key’s real estate market remains one of the most desirable along Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering a mix of luxury beachfront condos, single-family waterfront homes, and exclusive gated estates. As of late 2025, the island’s median sale price is around $1.4M, with a median price per sq. ft. near $710. Homes typically spend 60–90 days on market, while ultra-luxury Gulf-front properties may take longer due to exclusivity. Condominium living remains especially popular for seasonal residents and investors, while custom estates draw affluent buyers seeking privacy. Strong demand, limited land, and Sarasota’s cultural proximity continue to support premium pricing and rental performance.
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Average Rent (USD/month) | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR Gulf-View Condo | $950,000 (est.) | $690 | $4,200 | 5.3% (est.) |
| 3BR Bayfront Townhome | $1,350,000 (est.) | $710 | $5,200 | 4.6% (est.) |
| 3–4BR Single-Family Home (Interior) | $1,750,000 (est.) | $715 | $6,500 | 4.4% (est.) |
| Luxury Gulf-Front Estate | $4,500,000 (est.) | $725 | $12,000 | 3.2% (est.) |
Methodology & Notes: Island-wide median sale price ($1.4M) and $710/sq.ft. from 2025 market trackers applied to typical property categories. Rental figures represent late 2025 averages, with seasonal weighting. Yields vary based on Gulf-front exposure, marina access, luxury amenities, and condominium vs. estate properties.
Lifestyle in Longboat Key
Longboat Key blends private island tranquility with effortless access to Sarasota’s culture and the Gulf Coast’s best beaches. Stretching 10.8 miles between Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, the island is known for its sugar-sand shoreline, luxury resorts, yacht clubs, golf and tennis, and an upscale dining scene minutes from St. Armands Circle. Gulf of Mexico Drive (SR 789) anchors movement from the north end near Anna Maria Island to the south end toward Lido Key and Sarasota.
Location on Longboat Key
Barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay. Primary spine: Gulf of Mexico Drive (SR 789) connecting north to Anna Maria Island and south to Lido Key & Sarasota.
Community on Longboat Key
Quiet, refined, and highly residential. Gated enclaves, waterfront condo communities, and walkable pockets near resorts and marinas. A blend of year-round residents and seasonal homeowners seeking privacy and beachside ease.
Dining on Longboat Key
Upscale coastal cuisine and waterfront terraces on-island, with destination dining minutes away at St. Armands Circle and downtown Sarasota. Fresh seafood, sunset bars, chic cafes, and chef-driven kitchens.
Education near Longboat Key
Served by Sarasota County Schools and nearby private/charter options in Sarasota/Bradenton. Enrichment includes marine science (Mote Marine), performing arts, and athletics; higher ed at Ringling College, USF Sarasota-Manatee, and New College.
Housing on Longboat Key
Luxury gulf-view condos, bayfront townhomes, and single-family estates with docks. Premiums for beach frontage, boat access, views, and renovated or amenity-rich buildings. Confirm HOA/condo rules, rental windows, and coastal building codes.
Transportation on Longboat Key
Primarily by car along SR 789; bridges at Longboat Pass (north) and New Pass (south). Ride-share and private shuttles common. Bike lanes span much of the corridor; boating is integral for recreation and marina access.
Climate on Longboat Key
Subtropical: warm, sunny winters and hot, humid summers with sea breezes. Tropical weather awareness and hurricane-prepared construction/insurance are part of ownership; sea turtle lighting rules apply during nesting season.
Amenities on Longboat Key
Longboat Key Club golf & tennis, resort spas, marinas, pickleball, and boutique fitness. Everyday services on-island with broader retail and healthcare in Sarasota and Bradenton.
Demographics on Longboat Key
Mix of retirees, professionals, and second-home owners. Strong emphasis on wellness, boating, golf/tennis, and cultural outings in nearby Sarasota; seasonal population swell during winter/spring.
Pros of Longboat Key
Pristine beaches, low-key luxury, exceptional privacy, yacht & golf lifestyle, quick access to St. Armands and Sarasota’s arts. Limited land supports long-term desirability.
Cons of Longboat Key
Seasonal traffic along SR 789, higher insurance/maintenance for coastal property, limited nightlife on-island (most options nearby), and condo/HOA restrictions for short-term rentals.
Outdoor Activities on Longboat Key
Boating, sailing, kayaking & paddleboarding on Sarasota Bay; beach jogging and cycling along SR 789; golf & tennis at the Club; birding at parks and preserves; easy day trips to Anna Maria Island and Lido Beach.
Longboat Key’s lifestyle is coastal elegance—private beaches, marina living, and cultural access just over the bridge make this island an effortless, enduring place to call home.
Amenities in Longboat Key, FL
Longboat Key offers an upscale mix of amenities—from quality healthcare and boutique shopping to luxury marinas, fine dining, and outdoor recreation. Below, you’ll find highlights that enhance everyday living and support the island’s reputation as a premier coastal destination.
-
Hospitals & Clinics in Longboat Key
Sarasota • Bradenton • Nearby Regional AccessWhile Longboat Key itself is primarily residential, residents enjoy convenient access to leading hospitals and specialty care in Sarasota and Bradenton.- Sarasota Memorial Hospital — Sarasota (regional medical center & ER)
- Manatee Memorial Hospital — Bradenton
- HCA Florida Blake Hospital — Bradenton
- Longboat Key Center for Healthy Living — local wellness & clinics
-
Shopping & Markets in Longboat Key
On-Island • St. Armands Circle • SarasotaLongboat Key offers boutique shops, specialty grocers, and easy access to Sarasota’s upscale retail districts.- Publix Super Market — Bay Isles, Longboat Key
- St. Armands Circle — luxury shopping & dining nearby
- UTC Mall (University Town Center) — Sarasota (high-end brands & dining)
- Whitney Plaza — local shops & services on north Longboat
-
Fitness & Recreation in Longboat Key
Clubs • Gyms • Outdoor ParksResidents enjoy a strong emphasis on wellness and active living, with private clubs, gyms, and outdoor recreation along the Gulf and Bay.- Longboat Key Club — golf, tennis, pickleball, spa, marina
- Bayfront Park — recreation center, trails, courts, kayak launch
- Joan M. Durante Park — nature trails & mangrove preserve
- CoreSRQ — fitness & wellness in nearby Sarasota
-
Pet Services in Longboat Key
Veterinary • Grooming • BoardingLongboat Key is pet-friendly, with local veterinary care, grooming salons, and access to dog-friendly beaches and parks.- Animal Clinic of Longboat Key — on-island veterinary care
- Bayshore Animal Hospital — Bradenton
- Sarasota Pet Resort & Spa — nearby luxury boarding & grooming
- Brohard Paw Park — Venice (dog-friendly beach)
Schools & Preschools in Longboat Key
Families living on Longboat Key are served primarily by the Sarasota County School District on the south end and the Manatee County School District on the north end. In addition, there are excellent private, charter, and early learning options nearby in Sarasota, Bradenton, and Anna Maria Island. Choices range from neighborhood elementary schools to nationally recognized college-prep academies.
Many area schools emphasize STEM enrichment, arts and performing programs, and strong college-prep pathways. Private and Montessori schools provide alternative philosophies, while preschools and early learning centers offer play-based and language-focused environments. Always confirm current attendance zones, school choice transfers, and program availability before enrolling.
| School / Preschool | Type | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anna Maria Elementary School | Public (K–5) — Manatee County | Anna Maria Island | Beachside campus with small class sizes, strong community involvement, and environmental programs. |
| Southside Elementary School | Public (K–5) — Sarasota County | Sarasota | Historic neighborhood school with arts and gifted programs; highly rated by families. |
| Booker Middle School | Public (6–8) — Sarasota County | Sarasota | Offers visual & performing arts magnet program; diverse electives and strong athletics. |
| Martha B. King Middle School | Public (6–8) — Manatee County | Bradenton | STEM and technology emphasis; supportive community with wide extracurriculars. |
| Booker High School | Public (9–12) — Sarasota County | Sarasota | International Baccalaureate (IB) program, performing arts academy, and AP/Honors options. |
| Bayshore High School | Public (9–12) — Manatee County | Bradenton | Comprehensive academics with career/technical education and athletics. |
| Out-of-Door Academy (ODA) | Private (PK–12) | Sarasota | Prestigious independent college-prep with small classes, AP/Honors, athletics, and arts. |
| Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School | Private (PK–12) | Bradenton | Rigorous academics with global focus, strong arts & athletics, and character-based education. |
| Temple Beth Sholom Preschool | Private Preschool | Sarasota | Play-based early childhood program with arts, music, and values-driven curriculum. |
| Montessori Academies (multiple) | Private Preschool / Elementary | Sarasota & Bradenton | Montessori approach emphasizing independence, sensory exploration, and bilingual opportunities. |
Districts: Sarasota County Schools (south end), Manatee County Schools (north end). Tip: Attendance zones and choice options vary — verify current boundaries, magnet/IB availability, and admissions directly with each district or school.
Investment Potential in Longboat Key, FL
Longboat Key ranks among Florida’s most desirable Gulf Coast markets, led by luxury beachfront condos, bayfront & canal-front single-family homes, and trophy Gulf-front estates. Limited land, strict coastal building standards, and strong second-home demand support long-term value, especially for renovated, view-or dock-equipped properties.
Why Longboat Key? Pristine beaches, private club amenities, yacht marinas, and proximity to Sarasota’s arts and dining scene. Seasonality (winter “snowbird” months) drives rental demand, while condo inventory and gated enclaves appeal to lock-and-leave buyers. Rental windows and duration limits vary by municipality and HOA—always verify before purchasing.
- Condo Market: Lock-and-leave living with resort amenities; strongest demand for updated, gulf-view stacks in well-managed buildings.
- Boating Value: Private docks, deep-water access, and proximity to marinas (bay or gulf passes) add meaningful price premiums.
- Seasonality: Peak rental demand in winter/spring; summer draws families & beach travelers—optimize rates by season.
- Risk & Carry: Coastal insurance, flood elevation, seawall/dock condition, and condo reserves impact total cost of ownership.
Rental Snapshot on Longboat Key
Luxury Condos (2BR): $4,000–$6,000/mo*
Bayfront Townhomes (3BR): $5,000–$7,000/mo
Single-Family (3–4BR): $6,500–$9,500/mo
Peak STR Nightly: ~$300–$900+ (season/amenities)
*Higher for direct Gulf frontage, renovated interiors, and resort amenities.
What Performs Well Here
- Gulf-front condos with updated kitchens/baths and in-unit laundry.
- Homes with docks, lifts, and quick access to New Pass or Longboat Pass.
- Buildings allowing multiple rentals per year (within local rules).
- Walkability to beaches, parks, and dining; elevator & covered parking are pluses.
Compliance & Risk (Key Checks)
- Rental Rules: Municipal ordinances & HOA/condo documents often set minimum stays and limits per year.
- Coastal Factors: Flood elevation, hurricane shutters/impact glass, roof age, seawall & dock permits.
- Condo Health: Reserves, milestone/structural reports, and special assessments.
- Insurance: Wind/flood premiums can materially affect yields.
Investor Playbook
- Buy & Hold: Prime gulf-view stacks or deep-water canals with modernization upside.
- Renovation: Focus on windows/doors, kitchens/baths, and turnkey furniture packages.
- Revenue Mix: Align rental strategy with HOA windows (e.g., 30–90 day minimums).
- De-risk: Pre-inspect seawalls/docks; model insurance & reserves over 5–10 years.
Longboat Key’s blend of scarcity, resort-level amenities, and boating lifestyle underpins resilient demand. For best results, validate HOA bylaws, local rental ordinances, flood/insurance scenarios, and structural/reserve health before acquisition.
Thinking About Moving to Longboat Key?
Along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Longboat Key offers a lifestyle that blends island privacy with upscale convenience. Just minutes from Sarasota’s cultural scene and St. Armands Circle’s luxury shopping, the island stretches for 10.8 miles of white-sand beaches, waterfront dining, and private marinas.
Housing options range from luxury gulf-front condos and bayfront townhomes to exclusive gated estates and single-family homes with docks. Premiums rise with direct beach frontage, boating access, and resort-level amenities. Condominium associations and local ordinances often regulate rental terms, so investors should review rules carefully.
Daily life on Longboat Key centers around boating, tennis, and golf at the Longboat Key Club, relaxing on uncrowded beaches, and enjoying fresh seafood overlooking the Gulf. Residents also benefit from excellent healthcare in nearby Sarasota and Bradenton, boutique shopping on-island, and quick access to major airports in Sarasota, Tampa, and St. Pete.
With its combination of coastal beauty, exclusivity, and connectivity, Longboat Key stands out as one of Florida’s most desirable destinations for full-time living, seasonal retreats, and luxury investment properties.
Frequently Asked Questions about Longboat Key
- How much does it cost to live in Longboat Key?
-
- Condos: ~$600K–$1.5M depending on gulf views, building, and amenities
- Single-family homes: ~$1.2M–$3M+ with premiums for canal or bayfront lots
- Luxury gulf-front estates: $4M–$15M+ for direct beach frontage or private gated enclaves
Values based on 2024–2025 activity; premiums apply for boating access, renovated interiors, and beachfront. - Is Longboat Key a good place for investment properties?
- Yes—demand is strong for seasonal rentals and lock-and-leave condos. Investors focus on gulf-view condos, bayfront homes with docks, and properties in flexible HOA communities. Note: minimum-stay requirements vary (often 30–90 days) and must be verified with each building or HOA.
- What is the rental market like?
-
- Seasonal rentals: Peak demand from winter “snowbirds”; monthly rates often double during Jan–Mar.
- Annual rentals: ~$3,000–$5,500 (2–3BR condos/townhomes), ~$6,000–$9,500+ (single-family waterfront homes)
- Vacation rentals: Limited by condo/HOA rules; buildings allowing multiple rentals per year are highly competitive.
Always confirm condo docs and town ordinances before planning STR income. - What types of properties are common in Longboat Key?
- A mix of luxury beachfront condos, bayfront single-family homes, canal-front residences with docks, and private estates. Gated communities and resort-style developments are also popular for lock-and-leave buyers.
- What makes Longboat Key unique compared to other Florida islands?
- Longboat Key blends tranquil exclusivity with proximity to Sarasota’s arts and dining. Its 10+ miles of white-sand beaches, boating culture, and country club lifestyle create a quieter alternative to neighboring Siesta Key or Anna Maria Island.
- How do people get around, and which airports serve Longboat Key?
- The island is car-centric via Gulf of Mexico Drive, with biking popular along its flat coastal roads. Nearest airports: SRQ (Sarasota-Bradenton, ~20 min), TPA (Tampa International, ~1 hr), and PIE (St. Pete–Clearwater, ~1 hr). Private flights use SRQ’s general aviation services.
- Which schools serve Longboat Key?
- Longboat Key falls under both Sarasota County (south) and Manatee County (north) schools. Popular nearby options include Southside Elementary (Sarasota), Anna Maria Elementary, Booker High School (IB), and private academies like Out-of-Door Academy and Saint Stephen’s Episcopal.
Longboat Key combines island serenity, boating lifestyle, and luxury living—making it one of Florida’s most exclusive Gulf Coast destinations.
