Sarasota & Manatee Counties
Longboat Key
Exclusive barrier-island living — quiet luxury between the Gulf and the Bay.
Typical Home Prices
$600K condos to $5M+ Gulf-front estates
School Zones
Sarasota County Schools (southern end) / Manatee County Schools (northern end)
Lifestyle
Serene, upscale barrier-island community with 12 miles of beach, private resorts, and a year-round residential feel.
Overview
Longboat Key is a 12-mile barrier island stretching from the north end of Lido Key (Sarasota) to the southern tip of Anna Maria Island (Manatee). It's known for its quiet, residential character — no high-rise condos or spring-break crowds — and its two premier resorts: The Resort at Longboat Key Club and Zota Beach Resort.
The Vibe
Longboat Key is deliberately low-key. The island is zoned for low-density residential development, which keeps it peaceful and exclusive. Gulf-side properties offer direct beach access, while bay-side homes often feature private docks with deep-water access to Sarasota Bay. The Longboat Key Club offers golf, tennis, and a marina. Dining is limited but high-quality, with a few standout restaurants along the island's length.
Neighborhoods Within Longboat Key
| Area | Character | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Country Club Shores | Single-family, canal & bay access | $800K–$3M |
| Longboat Club / North End | Condos near the Key Club | $600K–$2M |
| Gulf-side estates | Direct beachfront | $1.5M–$5M+ |
| Bay-side homes | Deep-water docks | $1M–$4M+ |
Lifestyle Highlights
- 12 miles of Gulf beach — Private and uncrowded
- Longboat Key Club — Golf, tennis, marina, dining
- Quick access to St. Armands Circle — Shopping and dining at the island's south end
- Joan M. Durante Park — Nature trails and bay access
Who It's For
Longboat Key is ideal for buyers seeking privacy, exclusivity, and direct water access — whether that's a Gulf-front condo or a bay-front estate with a private dock. It's popular with full-time residents, second-home owners, and snowbirds who want a quieter alternative to Siesta Key or Anna Maria Island.
Things to Consider
- Longboat Key spans two counties; the southern portion is in Sarasota County and the northern portion is in Manatee County, which affects schools and services
- Flood and wind insurance are significant cost factors — budget accordingly
- The island has limited commercial development; grocery and dining options are modest compared to the mainland
- Evacuation is mandatory during hurricane threats; plan accordingly
Curious whether Longboat Key is the right fit?
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