Vacation rentals in Longboat Key
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Vacation rentals in Longboat Key
Nestled along Florida’s central west coast, Longboat Key is a peaceful, low-key destination with an upscale feel. Here you can enjoy top-rated restaurants, pristine gardens, great shopping, and world-class beaches, all without the crowds and traffic of larger more popular destinations.
Finding your perfect Longboat Key vacation rentalChoose from a variety of spectacular vacation rental options in Longboat Key. Oversized rentals are available for large groups and families, while couples can opt for cozy, smaller rentals. The majority of rentals in Longboat Key offer an upscale experience with sleek, modern interiors, tasteful decor, and up-to-date appliances. Book a rental with a private balcony and ocean views. Or splash around in your own private pool. With so many wonderful options available, you may never want to leave your Longboat Key vacation rental!
Vacations in Longboat Key
The area and getting around
Longboat Key is conveniently located just a 12-mile, or 20-minute drive from Sarasota. The closest airport is Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, which has domestic and international flights and is close to downtown Sarasota. Car rental companies are available at the airport and in the town of Sarasota. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also available for getting around.
Getting around Longboat KeyMany of the attractions and points of interest in Longboat Key are far apart from each other, so relying on your own two feet to get around is not practical. You will need to rely on a taxi, Uber, or a rental car to get around during your stay. Renting bikes is also a great option for getting around.
Travelers and activities
Enjoy a romantic afternoon in nature at the Quick Point Nature Preserve. This is a small bayside park with walking trails, some secluded beaches, and a wooden fishing pier that you can walk on. The Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium offers a fun day-date activity, where you can learn all about the local marine life from the friendly and knowledgeable staff. There are live exhibits with stingrays, sharks, and manatees too.
Longboat Key for golfersWith its many golf clubs and courses, Longboat Key is known to be a haven for golfers. Longboat Key Golf Club is known to have one of the best golf courses in town on a beautifully landscaped piece of property with a pond and palm trees. Longboat Key Club Harborside Golf Course is another top choice. The 27-hole golf course has a driving range, rentals, nice golf carts, and friendly service.
Legend has it that Longboat Key derived its name from the longboats that the Spaniards used to reach the area.
Top 5 travel tips in Longboat Key
Quite possibly the most beautiful public beach in Longboat Key, Coquina Beach boasts beautiful blue waters and snow-white sand. The beach is set on a long island, so you can stroll along the endless shoreline. This is the perfect place to spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the coastal atmosphere with your family or significant other.
2. Rent kayaks or paddleboardsGet out on the water and enjoy the spectacular coastal scenery. Kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent at several outfitters around Longboat Key. You can either do a guided trip or you can just rent the equipment and go without a guide. If you get lucky, you might see dolphins!
3. Charter a boatThere are several boat charter companies around Longboat Key where you can rent a yacht or a sailboat for a memorable day trip in the water. Custom charters are available and can be personalized to your needs. Try a dinner and sunset cruise, a fishing charter, or a simple relaxing day out on the boat.
4. Visit Beer Can IslandBeer Can Island is home to a picturesque public beach with powdery white sands and calm turquoise waters. You can either take a kayak or boat to the island, or walk here from Coquina beach. It’s the perfect place for swimming or walking along the shore collecting seashells.
5. The island's best shopping and diningLongboat Key is known for its top-rated restaurant options and world-class shopping. For shopping, head to Centre Shops of Longboat Key, which has some of the best shops around. Turtle Coffee Bar is the place to get your morning cup of coffee, with deliciously roasted coffee and a laid-back atmosphere. Dine at Harry’s Continental Kitchen for a wonderful fine-dining meal in an ambient setting, this is a perfect date-night option. For fresh seafood, head to the Lazy Lobster Longboat Key which serves delicious seafood dishes in a nice outdoor dining area.