Top 18 Things To Do In Longboat Key

Longboat Key is renowned for its stunning beaches with powdery white sand and sparkling turquoise waters.

Spend your days basking in the sun, building sandcastles, or simply strolling along the shoreline. The beaches here are not just for relaxation; they offer a plethora of water activities for all ages.

Dive into the underwater world with snorkeling and discover the vibrant marine life that calls Longboat Key home.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking in Longboat Key Florida. Glide through the calm waters, taking in the breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding nature.

If you're feeling more adventurous, consider renting a jet ski and feel the exhilaration as you zip across the waves. Longboat Key offers endless opportunities to make a splash and create lasting memories.

Longboat Key is not just about beaches; it is also home to stunning nature trails and wildlife sanctuaries. Take a break from the sun and venture into the island's lush green spaces.

One must-visit spot is the Joan M. Durante Park, a 32-acre nature preserve that boasts a variety of trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for native birds, turtles, and other wildlife that inhabit this serene oasis.

Another must-see attraction is the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. This world-renowned research facility offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with marine life.

Explore exhibits that showcase various species of fish, sharks, and sea turtles. If you're feeling adventurous, sign up for a guided kayak tour and paddle through the mangrove tunnels, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Longboat Key.

Longboat Key has a rich history, and there are several historical sites and museums that offer a glimpse into the island's past.

Visit the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, housed in the historic Old Schoolhouse, and explore the rotating art exhibits that showcase the works of local and regional artists. Learn about the island's early settlers and maritime history at the Longboat Key Historical Society Museum.

For a taste of local history, head to the Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub, a charming waterfront eatery that has been serving guests since 1912.

Enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views of Sarasota Bay and learning about the restaurant's storied past. Longboat Key offers a unique blend of history and culture, making it an ideal destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Longboat Key is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts offering a wide range of recreational activities to suit every interest. Embark on a fishing excursion and try your luck at catching the big one.

Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, the waters surrounding Longboat Key are teeming with fish, providing an exciting and rewarding experience.

For those who prefer to stay on land, Longboat Key boasts several well-maintained golf courses with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Tee off amidst lush green fairways and enjoy a round of golf in a picturesque setting.

If tennis is your game, it is home to world-class tennis facilities that cater to players of all skill levels. Challenge a friend or take a lesson from a professional instructor and improve your game while enjoying the island's beautiful surroundings.

No vacation is complete without indulging in some retail therapy and savoring delicious cuisine. Longboat Key offers a variety of shopping options, from quaint boutiques to upscale shopping centers.

 Explore St. Armands Circle, known for its unique shops and vibrant atmosphere. Browse through an array of clothing, jewelry, and art galleries, and find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your time on the island.

Restaurants in Longboat Key offer fresh seafood to cozy cafes serving gourmet cuisine, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Enjoy a romantic dinner while watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico or savor a casual meal at a beachside grill. Longboat Key's dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious, ensuring that every meal is a memorable experience.

Longboat Key is a golfer's paradise, boasting several world-class golf courses that offer challenging play and stunning views. Tee off amidst meticulously maintained fairways and enjoy the serene beauty of the island.

Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Longboat Key's golf courses cater to players of all skill levels, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone.

For tennis enthusiasts, Longboat Key offers top-notch facilities that rival those of professional tournaments. Play a match with friends or take lessons from experienced instructors who can help improve your game.

With the island's beautiful surroundings and ideal weather conditions, tennis in Longboat Key is an experience like no other.

If relaxation is at the top of your vacation agenda, Longboat Key has you covered. Indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment and let your worries melt away.

Longboat Key is home to several award-winning spas that offer a range of services, from massages and facials to body wraps and aromatherapy. Pamper yourself with a luxurious spa day and emerge feeling refreshed and revitalized.

For a truly tranquil experience, book a beachfront yoga session and practice your poses while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Longboat Key's serene atmosphere and natural beauty make it the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Longboat Key's prime location allows for easy access to nearby islands and attractions. Take a short drive to Anna Maria Island and discover its charming shops and pristine beaches.

Hop on a ferry and visit the stunning barrier islands of Siesta Key and Lido Key, known for their vibrant nightlife and beautiful landscapes.

If you're a nature lover, don't miss a visit to the Myakka River State Park, located just a short drive from Longboat Key. Explore its vast wilderness, spot alligators on an airboat tour, or hike through its scenic trails.

Longboat Key serves as a gateway to a variety of exciting destinations, ensuring that your vacation is filled with endless exploration and adventure.

Longboat Key offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler's needs.

Whether you prefer a luxurious beachfront resort, a cozy vacation rental, or a charming bed and breakfast, you'll find the perfect place to call home during your stay.

Longboat Key resort offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and easy access to the island's top attractions. Wake up to breathtaking sunrises, relax on your private balcony, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Longboat Key's surroundings.

One of Longboat Key's most well-liked attractions, Beer Can Island draws tourists and locals from all over the country.

Even though it is a pristine, undeveloped beach with white sand, it is an excellent site to begin exploring Longboat Key. Beer Can Island, a beach made by tidal currents, is also known as Greek Island Park or Hooked Spit.

The island is surrounded by a stunning landscape with numerous old trees and other natural resources.

Beer Can Island is a fantastic location for a small-scale family picnic where you can all share a nice dinner.

Bicentennial Park is a great spot to unwind and spend time with your loved ones.

On July 4, 1976, the park was established thanks to a collaboration between Arvida Corporation and the town's Bicentennial of the Constitution Committee.

The park has a distinctive natural setting brimming with shrubs, trees, and plants, and because it satisfies the required standards, it is recognized as a Florida Model Garden.

You can have a leisurely stroll in the park or look for a quiet, shady spot to sit and unwind while reading a book, listening to music, or enjoying a snack.

Given that there are excellent pathways and a variety of bird species, Bicentennial Park is great for cycling, strolling, and birding.

You get the chance to take part in the Moonlight Tour in Longboat Key, one of the most exciting nighttime excursions.

On the Moonlight Tour, you can observe a variety of animals that are often active only in the wee hours of the morning when they emerge to feed.

During the journey, it's possible that you'll observe animals like owls, octopuses, and many more species. Only after the moon has risen can you fully explore the aquatic life on the Happy Paddler tour.

Anyone who enjoys seafood will adore The Lazy Lobster. It is a fine-dining seafood establishment.

The pleasant aroma of the food being made in the kitchen will greet you as soon as you enter the restaurant.

You get to eat in a setting decorated in a nautical style that gives you a comfortable and relaxed sensation.

All of the marine animals used at The Lazy Lobster are fresh-caught, and all of the meals are prepared from scratch. You don't need anything else to enjoy a good lunch besides the lovely surroundings and the lively & pleasant atmosphere.

Steff's Stuff is a one-of-a-kind boutique in the center of Longboat Key.

The shop is your one-stop treasure house, offering a wide selection of products from different ages, including recent, vintage, antique, and classic items.

The goods you discover here are unique and impossible to obtain elsewhere at reasonable prices.

Almost anything may be found at Steff's Stuff, including apparel, accessories, art, jewelry, lights, purses, furniture, nautical items, and more.

If you want to upgrade the decor of your home or place of business or if you want to purchase some trinkets, they only sell high-quality things.

Is fishing a pastime of yours? If so, this is your chance to go on a fishing excursion that is more daring.

Visitors can have a one-of-a-kind fishing trip with Longboat Key Fishing Charter that allows them to explore the entire seashore. This is the next fascinating action waiting for you if you're bored or have nothing on your schedule.

They provide a variety of boat experiences, including ones for couples, families, and couples only. You go on a fishing expedition with Longboat Key Fishing Charter where you get to make significant catches.

The tour guides are quite knowledgeable about the finest places to capture a big fish and are properly certified and skilled.

After a strenuous day at Longboat Key, you may unwind and reenergize at The Tavern & Whiskey Bar.

This establishment combines a restaurant with a pub. The restaurant serves delectable seafood, while the bar has a selection of whiskeys, wines, and other drinks.

There is something for everyone in the Tavern's scrumptious Native American cuisine, which you may also enjoy.

On the quaint terrace of The Tavern & Whiskey Bar, you may eat, unwind, and sip wine from the large variety.

You'll feel more at ease in the nautically themed environment, and the excellent staff will make sure you have a nice night.

The Longboat Pass Bridge is a noteworthy landmark that you should visit while visiting Longboat Key.

It is commonly known as the Longboat Key Bridge, which spans the Longboat Pass between Longboat Key and Bradenton Beach, Florida.

The Gulf of Mexico Drive is supported by this bascule bridge as well. In 1957, they built the Longboat Pass Bridge to replace an aging swing bridge built in 1921.