Longboat Key is a large, quiet island with miles of beautiful white sand in Florida’s Cultural Coast, just south of Anna Maria Island. The island is characterized by luxury condos, resorts and estates rather than the tourist related commercial developments of some Florida beaches.
While the exclusive nature of this area creates a very quiet beach for those wanting to avoid being bothered by crowds, beach access can be difficult to find for those not staying at a beach-side location. The following list of public access points available for public use is provided by Florida Nature Guide for those just visiting for the day:
| 2825 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Parking available at Town Hall (501 Bay Isles Rd.) | |
| 3175 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Parking available on site | |
| 3355 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Parking available on site | |
| 3495 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Handicap Accessible on site, also parking across street | |
| 4001 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Parking available at Bayfront Park (4052 GMD) | |
| 4711 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Handicap Accessible parking on site | |
| 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Handicap Accessible parking on site | |
| 6399 Gulfside Road | Parking available at General Harris Street | |
| 6847 Gulf of Mexico Drive | Parking available at Broadway Access | |
| 100 Broadway Street | Handicap Accessible parking on site | |
| 7055 Seabreeze Avenue | No parking available |
When comparing Longboat Key to Anna Maria Island, you will find that Longboat Key has more large resorts and condos with a more aloof character. Anna Maria Island has smaller resorts and beach cottages, along with a more down to earth “Old Florida” nature. While this area does not have a specific “beach” identified, the entire shoreline in this Florida coastal area can be a beautiful and relaxing experience for those staying on the island or taking advantage of the public access areas listed above.
