Longboat Key vacation rentals

Stretching between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, the barrier island of Longboat Key has attracted its share of sun-seekers, who can be found teeing off at the sweeping gulf-front golf courses or fishing in the mangroves for speckled trout. With Siesta Key to the south and Anna Maria Island to the north, Longboat Key has an upscale feel, with nice restaurants, luxury resorts, and 256 days of annual sunshine. At the northern tip is Beer Can Island, a popular picnic spot that’s prettier than its name might suggest; the untouched, white-sand beach is even accessible on foot at low tide. Paddleboarding, windsurfing, and other on-the-water activities beckon you into the Gulf. And when you’ve finally kicked the sand from your toes and are ready for some culture, you can visit the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota, which showcases the circus impresario’s vast collection of classic and modern European and American artworks.

There’s a saying that the local visitors’ bureau likes to use: It’s always summer in Sarasota County. Longboat Key gets its best weather in the fall, winter, and spring, when temperatures stay in the 70s Fahrenheit and Gulf breezes keep things comfortable. These summer-like seasons are preferable to actual summers, which can be rainy and hot, with temperatures in the 90s, not to mention humid and buggy. No matter when you visit, bring your swimsuit: The water is swimmable all year round, and rarely drops below 68 degrees.

St Armands Circle

This round little island shopping center just south of Longboat Key is home to high-end boutiques, art galleries, fine dining, and other urbane attractions. Surrounded by water on all sides, it makes for a perfect scenic day of shopping. Check the calendar for special events throughout the year.

Coquina Beach

Just a few minutes’ drive over the Longboat Pass Bridge, this relaxed white-sand beach at the southern end of Anna Maria Island is worth a visit for its scenic sunset views. Hunt for shells, play some beach volleyball, and keep an eye out for passing pods of dolphins.

Quick Point Nature Preserve

A short (0.8-mile) walking trail wends its way through 34 acres of protected wetlands and mangrove lagoons. If you’re lucky you might spot a dolphin swimming through the seagrass, or watch a heron, egret, or ibis hunting for its dinner.