Travel Guide: Longboat Key, Florida
/How to Spend 72 Hours in Longboat Key
So you’re planning a long weekend to Longboat Key, and want to get the most out of it. Well, here you will find the best places to eat and how to spend your time while visiting Longboat Key, Florida.
When you first hear Longboat Key, you might be tempted to think it’s nestled inside the keys and close to Key West. Instead of making the long drive to the Keys, LBK brings the island life 30 minutes outside of Sarasota, Florida. My family moved to LBK back in 2018 and we’ve had the opportunity to visit yearly. LBK has always been a little slice of beach heaven in our book.
Favorite pieces for a beach vacation
WHERE TO EAT
Whitney’s hit the LBK food scene in 2020 and is exactly what the island needed. The owners converted this gas station into a retro indoor/outdoor restaurant. Whitney’s became our little date night spot - from the live music to chips and queso there really was nothing more our hearts desired. Combine delicious cocktails with live music and you might just find yourself sitting on their patio until closing time.
The Shore
The Shore is a fan favorite with our family and friends. Not only is the food delicious (our picks: Ahi Tuna, Salmon and Fried Chicken) but it’s one of the best spots to have a cocktail and watch the sunset. Overall the menu is delicious and the service is typically 10/10. Their cocktails and entrees are on the pricer end, but when you’re eating right on the water with a sunset view - sometimes a $13 cocktail feels worth it.
Mar Vista
Mar Vista is one of Aaron’s favorite restaurants on the island. Located right next to The Shore, it gives you a casual dining experience with the same breathtaking views. Our favorite go to items: mimosa kit, blueberry mojito, tuna poke bowl and the pub burger.
One of the big draws of Mar Vista is how large their menu is, especially for Aaron who doesn’t eat seafood. They have delicious options for the seafood lover and lover of all things chicken and steak.
The Thirsty Snail
Looking for a bubble tea with a twist? The Thirsty Snail is owned by the sweetest couple who make delicious bubble tea! I’ve never been one for the traditional boba - which is why it’s so nice that they offer popping pearls, jellies, or fruit bits as well. Another special twist at The Thirsty Snail is the ability to create your own custom tea!
Blue Dolphin
We visited the Blue Dophin thanks to pure luck. A little tucked back in the main shopping strip, the Blue Dophin has some of the best breakfast options on the island. Aaron loves a classic breakfast and boy do they deliver!
Breakfast at The Blue Dolphin Cafe feels like a true surfer experience. The portions are huge, the food is delicious, the staff is friendly and you’ll be in and out with a full belly in under 45 minutes.
WHAT TO DO
Beach
If you’re visiting LBK having a few beach days is a complete must. Longboat has some of the most beautiful beaches we’ve ever seen. White sand, blue skies and relaxation for as far as the eye can see.
Catamaran
Take a Catamaran tour one day! Now, this is a little bit of a cheat since the Catamaran company we used is technically on Anna Maria Island. LBK is a short 10-minute drive to AMI (depending on traffic) and it’s a personal opinion but everyone should do a half-day Catamaran sail.
We sailed with Flip Flops - the captain was amazing and they do book up fast, so plan this adventure early.
Fishing / Boating
You may be catching on by now that a weekend in LBK really is all about the water and beaches. One of our favorite ways to spend the weekend is by boat. Either fishing or at a sandbar, every weekend is better with your toes in the water.
Have a favorite spot in Longboat Key? Drop it below and lets keep adding to the list!