Things to do & places to visit in Longboat Key, Florida, United States

Gorgeous Longboat Key combines serene seashore enjoyment with luxury shopping and dining choices. Families enjoy the many water sport activities from fishing, boating and kayaking to plucking perfect seashells along the shoreline. Couples and friends explore chic dining and shopping spots around St. Armands Circle. The aristocratic heritage of the St. Armand and Ringling families resonates through quiet gardens and plush Palm Beach-style shopping. Umbrella-draped cafes and handsome restaurants offer exceptional European fare and inventive coastal specialties. Work off that decadent dessert with a stroll around the circle for leather, jewelry, resort wear and art gallery browsing. Venture just across the bridge over Sarasota Bay for unrivaled cultural treats. The Ringling circus family bequeathed an elegant legacy of art and architecture. The estate includes the acclaimed John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the family’s winter Ca’ d’Zan mansion – a Venetian Gothic masterpiece - the Circus Museum and historic Asolo Repertory Theater. With elegant gardens and terraces spread over 20 bayside acres, the complex provides hours of enjoyment.

Longboat Key city in Florida, United States. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Saturday, April 27, 2024, 13:35.

Top things to do (16)

Top places to visit (21 attractions)

5.0 Longboat Massage (22 reviews)
- Massage Longboat Key is a great place!
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spas

At Longboat Massage LLC in Longboat Key, you will find that the run-of-the-mill approach is never taken with our customers. Each session is customized to suit your individual needs and desires, being sure to weave together certain relaxation and medically beneficial techniques for a soothing, yet healing experience that addresses all levels of mind, body and soul. Our massage services are provided in a professional, serene environment to help you relax and let the healing begin. With over 20 years of experience and a background in reflexology, cancer massages, prenatal/postpartum massages, and much more, you can rest assured that you will be in good hands when you visit Longboat Massage. See more..
5.0 Longboat Key Paddleboard and Kayak (12 reviews)
- Great morning paddle
Kayaking & Canoeing

This company is set up for paddling in a very nice area. Limited boat traffic and numerous keys to paddle around. Stable boats with comfortable seats. Sean was very helpful getting us set up and provided great advice about where to go. See more..
5.0 Liquid Limousine Charters (8 reviews)
- Best part of our vacation!!
Boat Tours

My family and I booked a charter for an afternoon and it was amazing. The dolphins seemed to flock to our boat and Captain Jimmy knew all the best places on the water. The girls (14 and 15) had a blast and both can't wait to go again. The boat we were on had a nice covered area for my husband who wanted to stay cooler and a great sunny area for me and the girls to tan. I would so recommend this as part of a vacation you will never forget. See more..
5.0 Longboat Limousine (4 reviews)
- Reliability, Comfort and Performance
Taxis & Shuttles
I have taken Limo services throughout the USA and Longboat Limo is absolutely the best Limo service I have ever used. It’s easy to say that all Limo’s are pretty much equal but Longboat Limo stands apart. Here is why: their attention to detail from tailoring how much luggage one has, golf clubs, special luggage, etc to the vehicle needed to the daily traffic conditions. 2nd their knowledge of the area, accommodations, 25 years of feedback in a single ride. 3rd their experience and knowledge of the best way and the time needed to get where you want to go. 4th the uncommon good will that comes from the top down to all their drivers, reflected in safety first, (especially in this COVID-19 environment), trip preparation and respect for the clients needs. If you are in the Sarasota or Manatee County area, Longboat Limo has to be at the top of your list for livery services. You will be happy with selecting their services. See more..
5.0 Bayfront Park (4 reviews)
- Great place to ride bikes
Saturday: 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Playgrounds
This is a great place to spend an afternoon! The trails are wel kept and perfect for riding a mountain bike or trail bike. See more..
5.0 Symphony Massage (1 review)
- Nicole is a magician!
Spas

Here at Symphony Massage we believe that bodywork should be an instrumental part of your well being. We have taken the time to hire highly trained therapists who are looking forward to providing a variety of relaxation and rehabilitation techniques. See more..
4.5 Coquina Beach (455 reviews)
- Great beach and lots of fun on Sundays
Beaches

This scenic beach is located next to a small park on Anna Maria Island. See more..
4.5 Joan M. Durante Community Park (164 reviews)
- Beautiful park with nice trails!
Spent 1-2 hours Parks

My husband and I stopped here for a walk and really enjoyed it. We liked how the paths led to viewing spots to see the bay and we got to see quite a few fish and a couple of crabs as well on our walk. It was evening time in August & we didn’t feel too hot, which was a plus! See more..
4.5 Longboat Key (139 reviews)
- Excellent , Beautiful private sand beach , Wonderful Sun sets . Sit on the beach & watch the Dolphins play !
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Beaches

We stayed at GULF TIDES RESORT , a small 21 unit time share on Gulf of Mexico Dr. Units available to rent . Beach side ,There is about a 200 ft. sand beach with lounge chairs and umbrellas a shower , a gas grill with tables ,small shuffle board court . On the East side , Pool , tennis court another gas grill with several tables in a covered area near the pool . There is an elevator as well as stairs to unites on this side & covered parting for 8 or 9 cars . Bikes are available . Public's is only 1/2 south. Several Excellent Restaurants on the Island ,with many more both to the north & to the south . We are planning on a return visit again next year . See more..
4.5 Cannons Marina (89 reviews)
- Friendly & Professional Staff. Great Overall Service.
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Boat Rentals

I just had my 2020 Yamaha 300hp engine and boat serviced at Cannons last week. It was one of the best service experiences I have ever had, especially with marine dealerships. The service manager, Levi, was very attentive, gave me an estimate as to when the boat would be ready and then was sure to complete it when promised. I received total costs up front as well as an estimation of what some unknown issues might cost. The final price was exactly what was quoted including parts and labor. No surprises! We have been working with Cannons for over a year and have found that they are a first class organization. This can only start at the top, so kudos to management and the owners. See more..
4.5 Quick Point Nature Reserve (46 reviews)
- Great Little Hike
Nature & Wildlife Areas

We walk out here several times a year while on Longboat. Quick hike, good bird watching, and just plain old fun that doesn't cost any money! See more..
4.5 Islandside Golf Club (20 reviews)
- Beautifully maintained course. 3 to 4 difficulty
Golf Courses

Designed by Bill Mitchell, this 6,792-yard "watery challenge" borders along the scenic Gulf of Mexico, and is a challenge for golfers of all skill levels. See more..
4.5 Longboat Bay Charters (15 reviews)
- Amazing trips
Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching

We booked a 3 hour sightseeing trip with Captain Casey, and had so much fun that we chartered another 4 hour fishing trip and then a further 4 hour combined trip. For the fun that we had, the trips were well worthwhile. The boat is very safe and well maintained, and great for being out in the bay surrounding the Anna Maria area, and the 4 people in our party were made very welcome and provided with drinks. Captain Casey is such a great person; she is extremely knowledgeable about the area and showed us lots of the local scenery including Passage Key and Egmont Key. From a fishing perspective, she is super, being very professional with lines, baiting and fishing locations, and helped us to catch some great fish as well. All in all these trips made up some of the best memories of our visit to Anna Maria, and I would not hesitate to use Captain Casey again. See more..
4.5 Rip Current, LLC (5 reviews)
- Great clothes
Speciality & Gift Shops
Stopped in for a few items for the beach. Great selection of brands and colors. Also souvenirs. Friendly staff. Quality clothes. See more..
4.0 Harbourside Golf Course (23 reviews)
- Played the renovated White Egret nine
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Golf Courses

Harbourside’s three nines make up three distinctive 18 hole options. Many of the holes are located alongside Sarasota Bay and our own Longboat Key Club Moorings. All three nines have their own distinct characteristics. With beautiful views in every direction and a challenge for every aspect of your game, this course has something for every player. Golf access is reserved for Members and Guests of The Resort at Longboat Key. See more..
4.0 St Mary Star of the Sea Church (1 review)
- Visited the Church for Saturday Night Service
Churches & Cathedrals
Visited the church on a Saturday with my relatives on May 28th. We enjoyed the service, the priest did a wonderful job with the Homily and the whole congregation made us feel welcome. We will certainly attend if we visit Longboat Key Again. See more..
Essence of Soleil Massage (0 review)
Spas
Experience the Best Massage on Longboat Key with Brandy. You will leave feeling Rejuvenated and Refreshed! See more..
Longboat Key Paddleboard and Kayak (0 review)
Stand Up Paddleboarding • Kayaking & Canoeing

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Wander Without Limits Charter (0 review)
Boat Tours

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Links On Longboat (0 review)
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Golf Courses

Redesigned by Ron Garl in 2014, The Links on Longboat (formerly the Islandside Course) has many characteristics of a classic seaside links course. Ocean breezes, expansive natural areas and big greens create an incredible golfing experience. Links on Longboat stretches out to 6,748 yards from end to end with five sets of tees to accommodate any level of play. The Par 71 layout demands accuracy off the tee. Most holes feature small waterways that run along one side of the fairway to force you into a decision on placement validating the original “watery challenge” description. Once you have driven your ball in a good fairway position, the fun really begins. See more..
Vintage Whalers (0 review)
Gear Rentals
Friendly To Your Budget! Anna Maria Island, Florida is the perfect choice for your vacation whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family trip or a nature vacation get away. Frommer’s Travel Guide ranked Anna Maria Island the #1 top tourist’s location. The island is famous for fishing, boating and its white sandy beaches and clear water. Our islands provide for the perfect vacations. See more..