Imagine moving to an island where you can enjoy exclusive access to pristine beaches, play golf and tennis, visit pristine parks, keep your yacht, explore coastal preserves, fish from neighborhood piers, and taste the menus of great bistros and restaurants. Although this may sound like a Caribbean resort, this island is on the Gulf of Mexico and it is one of the best housing markets in Southwest Florida.
Longboat Key is a barrier island that is split between Manatee and Sarasota counties. Of all the Sarasota Keys, this island is the most self-contained in terms of community and convenience. Residents of Longboat Key actually form part of a municipality and a vibrant community, which means that they can actually stay on the island for many of their needs. This is important insofar as Longboat Key being one of the most treasured housing markets in Southwest Florida.
Longboat Key spans about 12 miles from tip to tip. It runs parallel to the Sarasota Bay coastline and the Gulf of Mexico. This means that some house hunters will be able to find beachfront listings that feature views of both the Sarasota skyline and the Gulf. There are many upscale properties with private beach access, but there are also some historic homes, affordable condominiums, and single-family residential neighborhoods.
Access to Longboat Key can be accomplished from two other barrier islands. Real estate located on the north end of the island is formally located in Manatee County, and residents can access the Florida mainland via Anna Maria. The southern tip of the island is part of Sarasota County, and it can be accessed from Lido Key. Properties located in southern Longboat Key tend to be more spectacular; some are even located within a gorgeous country club where golfers can enjoy round after round in a challenging and very scenic 18-hole course. Waterfront estates complete with private dock space can be found on the southern bay side of Longboat Key along with elegant townhouses and low-rise condominiums. On the Gulf side, home buyers will find imposing beachfront condominium towers along with luxury homes.
The busiest spot in the Town of Longboat Key can be found in the convenient Avenue of the Flowers Town Plaza, where residents can shop for gourmet and organic food items at a Publix Greenwise Fresh Market. Along with this unique supermarket, residents will also find boutiques, drugstores, shops, restaurants, pubs, and more. Many neighborhoods feature amenities such as swimming pools and fitness centers, but many residents can also enjoy golf, tennis, fishing, boating, hiking, jogging, and bike riding without leaving the island.
