Beaches of Longboat Key

Probably one of the most peaceful beaches in the USA, and one of Florida’s best kept secrets, well at least Unilocal knows now.
There are never many people on the island and you experience seeing wildlife up close. In the summer there are always tons of turtle nests which are roped off. I’ve seen the following all within touching distance: schools of stingrays, Dolphins, manatees, schools of varieties of fish, etc… Just so you know manatees are known as the cows of the sea. They are such gentle creatures. It kills me when I see boats flying and I know a manatee is in the area, or any animal for that matter.
If you are looking for a more private beach, then this is the one for you. I absolutely love Longboat Key and was so happy to stumble upon it years and years ago. If you are in the Sarasota area then you should check this beach out. I’m a fan!
Cheers & Enjoy!

Perfect beach-​not crowded, soft white sand and picturesque. Limited parking options help make this seem even more secluded.

Longboat Key is annoyingly private, if you are just coming over from Sarasota or somewhere, but if you can find a way out to the beaches, or if you’re lucky enough to stay on Longboat, it’s just absolutely lovely.

It’s not siesta. That is a pro and a con. The sand isn’t as soft and it’s hot on your feet. There is less people, facilities, concessions, etc. then again, it’s gorgeous, less hectic and just beautiful!

As we attempted to beat the hustle and bustle of Siesta Key’s Beaches we took solace in the beach offerings of Longboat Key. In a completely different way, Longboat Key was exactly what we were looking for. Longboat key is slightly more remote, the beaches are not packed to the brim with people, and the overall feel is relaxed and clean.
Our entire experience at Longboat Key was relaxing, refreshing, and fun. There is public beach access all over the shoreline of Longboat Key but parking at these access points is very limited. During our visits, we were usually the first people on the beach arriving around 730AM. Typically, the lots did not fill up, but in the more busy times of year I could see a greater rush on the amenities of these beaches and having difficulty parking as a result.
Overall, the beach is wide, there are some quality shelling opportunities as you walk to beach, and they are private enough that there is not another group of people breathing down your neck all day. Longboat Key is a much more relaxed and isolated option if you are is the Sarasota area.