Longboat Key FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Longboat Key, Florida.
1. Longboat Key Beach
SERENE GULF SHORELINE
Longboat Key Beach is famed for its powdery sand and tranquil turquoise waters, making it a favorite for sunbathing and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy swimming, seashell collecting, and long peaceful walks along the uncrowded shoreline. The beach's natural beauty and gentle ambiance offer a quintessential Gulf Coast escape for families and couples alike.
2. Joan M. Durante Community Park
LUSH NATURE PRESERVE
Joan M. Durante Community Park is a 32-acre bayfront oasis featuring scenic mangrove forests, nature trails, and boardwalks. The park's playgrounds and picnic areas make it ideal for family outings, while birdwatchers and nature lovers appreciate the diverse habitats and wildlife. Its tranquil setting provides a peaceful retreat for a leisurely walk or outdoor adventure.
3. Coquina Beach
POPULAR ISLAND BEACH
Coquina Beach is a beloved stretch on Anna Maria Island, just north of Longboat Key, renowned for its expansive sand, shaded picnic areas, and convenient amenities. Visitors can swim, enjoy beach volleyball, or stroll the scenic walking paths under Australian pines. The beach's relaxed atmosphere and beautiful sunsets attract locals and vacationers year-round.
4. Quick Point Nature Reserve
COASTAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Quick Point Nature Reserve offers visitors a chance to explore natural tidal lagoons and mangroves on Longboat Key's southern tip. Boardwalks and trails wind through habitats teeming with native birds and marine life. The reserve is prized for its peaceful views of Sarasota Bay and opportunities for kayaking or wildlife photography.
5. Bayfront Park Recreation Center
COMMUNITY ACTIVITY HUB
Bayfront Park Recreation Center is a waterfront spot with playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, and direct access to Sarasota Bay. The park is perfect for active visitors or families seeking open spaces and scenic picnic spots. With beautiful bay vistas and easy parking, it's a favorite gathering place on the island.
6. St. Armands Circle
UPSCALE SHOPPING & DINING
St. Armands Circle is a sophisticated shopping and dining district just south of Longboat Key, celebrated for its palm-lined avenues and European flair. Visitors browse high-end boutiques, art galleries, and chic restaurants or attend lively festivals year-round. The area's vibrant atmosphere and historic charm make it a must-visit for fashion and food enthusiasts.
7. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
WORLD-CLASS ART MUSEUM
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection of European paintings, Asian art, and decorative arts, housed on a sprawling bayfront estate. The museum complex includes the ornate Ca' d'Zan mansion, Circus Museum, and beautiful gardens. Its cultural significance and magnificent architecture make it a top destination for art lovers and history buffs alike.
8. Ca' d'Zan Mansion
HISTORIC VENETIAN ESTATE
Ca' d'Zan Mansion is the former winter home of circus magnate John Ringling, renowned for its opulent Venetian Gothic architecture along Sarasota Bay. Guided tours reveal the mansion's lavish interiors, including marble floors, stained-glass windows, and waterfront terraces. Its grandeur and fascinating history evoke the glamour of the Roaring Twenties.
9. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
INNOVATIVE MARINE SCIENCE
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium offers interactive exhibits on Florida's marine ecosystems, with opportunities to see manatees, sea turtles, sharks, and rays up close. The aquarium's research-driven approach engages guests in ocean conservation and scientific discovery. Its unique blend of education and hands-on experiences delights visitors of all ages.
10. Durante Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Durante Gallery features works by local and regional artists, reflecting the coastal landscapes and vibrant culture of Longboat Key. The gallery provides a tranquil environment to appreciate paintings, photography, and sculpture. Rotating exhibits and special events make it a dynamic part of the island's art scene.
11. Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub
WATERFRONT DINING EXPERIENCE
Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub offers classic Florida seafood and cocktails served beneath the shade of ancient buttonwood trees. Guests enjoy beautiful bay views, an old Florida ambiance, and a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Its dockside location allows visitors to arrive by boat after a day on the water.
12. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill
SCENIC SEAFOOD VENUE
Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is celebrated for its fresh-caught seafood and panoramic views of Sarasota Bay from its open-air deck. The casual yet refined atmosphere pairs perfectly with its signature dishes and extensive wine list. It's a go-to spot for sunset dining and watching boats cruise the bay.
13. Harry's Continental Kitchens
GOURMET ISLAND EATERY
Harry's Continental Kitchens combines fine dining with a relaxed island setting, offering a creative menu of global cuisine along with a gourmet deli and bakery. Diners savor inventive entrees, wines, and pastries crafted with flair. The establishment's exceptional service and local hospitality have made it a Longboat Key favorite.
14. Parasailing Longboat Key
AERIAL ADVENTURE EXCURSION
Parasailing Longboat Key gives thrill-seekers a bird's-eye view of sparkling Gulf waters and the island's lush landscape. Adventurers are securely harnessed to a parachute and towed by boat, soaring high above the shoreline. The experience is suitable for all ages and promises unforgettable memories with safety as a top priority.
15. Manatee Public Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY GULF SPOT
Manatee Public Beach is a lively stretch on Anna Maria Island, offering soft sand, gentle surf, and plenty of amenities including picnic tables, playgrounds, and beachside cafes. The beach is ideal for families looking to spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach volleyball. Its laid-back vibe and beautiful sunsets make it a staple for both locals and visitors.