When you join the community on Longboat Key, even for just a few days in a beach rental, you will have access to important conveniences like super markets, the post office, and pharmacies. Getting around the island is easy, thanks to public transportation SCAT buses and trolleys run all along the key and out to the mainland. If you prefer to walk, note that the island is pet-friendly, with pet water fountains along Gulf of Mexico Drive (the main road the runs the length of the key). If you want to nip into a larger city, Sarasota is close by.
Longboat Key Beach House Living
When you rent Longboat Key beach houses, you get the conveniences of home, but also enjoy being just steps from the beach. One of the most popular beaches in the area is Coquina Beach, which has a TripAdvisor certificate of excellence. It has white powdery sand that is perfect for beach games and sunbathing. Ocean life is present, as well - visitors have seen manta rays and dolphins in the deep water channel. If you have brought a furry friend on your trip, be advised that pets are not welcome on the beach, so you'll have to leave Fido in your beach house as you adventure along the sand. Boating is a popular option among vacationers, and Cannons Marina has motorboats for rent. You can also charter a sailboat with Catherine's Florida Charters. As you sail, you are likely to see dolphins alongside your boat.
After you return from your swim or your sail, you can prepare a meal in your Longboat Key beach house or visit one of the popular eateries on the key. Local favorite restaurants include the Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, Lazy Lobster of Longboat, and Harry's Continental Kitchens. Dry Dock features waterfront views and offers a selection of daily fresh fish, while Lazy Lobster has a fish tank that guests (especially kids) love to visit. And because you are vacationing on a Florida key, the seafood is sure to be both fresh and delicious.
Outdoor Activities on Longboat Key
Longboat Key is a haven for outdoor and sporting activities. You can book a tee time at the Longboat Key Golf Club or visit the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center for a friendly match. The key boasts a few parks that are must-see attractions during your stay, as well. Overlook Park offers fishing and picnicking, and you can access Quick Point Nature Preserve by wooden walkway. Bicentennial Park is just off of the bike path on the corner of Gulf of Mexico Drive and Bay Isles Road, and it is the best place for walking and cycling. Joan M. Durante Park boasts 32 acres of wetland and a coastal dune forest. This park is the holder of the "Public Landscape Award" and the "Image Manatee Beautification Award," so you know that the grounds are beautiful and inviting. And with a play area for children and water fountains for both people and pets, this park is one destination that the whole family will enjoy.
If you're looking for a vacation spot that showcases the natural beauty of Florida, don't miss out on Longboat Key. Rent a Longboat Key beach house for your best vacation yet.
