Cleaning Up Longboat Key After Hurricane Helene
Longboat Key faced a temporary closure following the impact of Hurricane Helene, which brought strong winds, heavy rains, and coastal flooding to the area. The storm caused damage to infrastructure, beaches, and local businesses, prompting a dedicated recovery effort to restore the island’s beauty and functionality. Now, after months of rebuilding and revitalization, Longboat Key is fully open and more inviting than ever. Visitors can once again enjoy its pristine beaches, world-class dining, and relaxing island atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach escape, a waterfront dining experience, or a day on the water, Longboat Key is as inviting as ever. Here’s everything you need to know about where to eat, stay, and explore during your visit.
Jump To A Section:
- Where to Eat – Longboat Key’s Best Restaurants
- Where to Stay – Hotels and Resorts
- Things to Do
- Longboat Key’s Waterfront Parks
- Public Beach Access Points
Where to Eat – Longboat Key’s Best Restaurants
Mar Vista Dockside
760 Broadway St., Longboat Key, FL 34228
A charming waterfront spot with fresh seafood, a laid-back vibe, and dining under a historic banyan tree.
Dry Dock Waterfront Grill
412 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
A local favorite for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Harry’s Continental Kitchens
525 St. Judes Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
A Longboat Key staple offering gourmet breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a specialty market for take-home treats.
Euphemia Haye
5540 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
A perfect fine-dining destination with a cozy atmosphere, upstairs dessert room, and legendary Key lime pie.
Whitney’s
6990 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
A casual, retro-style eatery with delicious fish tacos, brunch, and a great spot to grab a bite after a day on the water.
Lo-Key Tiki Bar & Grill (New!)
5620 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
The newest addition to Longboat Key’s dining scene, Lo-Key offers tropical cocktails, fresh seafood, live music, and a relaxed island atmosphere.
The Lazy Lobster
5350 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
A longtime favorite serving delicious lobster dishes, fresh seafood, and a great casual ambiance. Always a fantastic choice!
Where to Stay – Hotels & Resorts Open Now
St. Regis Longboat Key Resort
The newest luxury resort on the island, offering beachfront accommodations, fine dining, and world-class service.
Zota Beach Resort
A stylish resort with direct beach access, a stunning infinity pool, and an upscale restaurant.
The Resort at Longboat Key Club
A fantastic destination for golfers and beach lovers alike, featuring a private beach, golf courses, and spa services.
Silver Sands Gulf Beach Resort
A laid-back, family-friendly beachfront resort with cozy, well-equipped accommodations.
Casa Del Mar Beach Resort
A perfect beachfront getaway with condo-style units and breathtaking Gulf views.
The Beach on Longboat Key
A charming boutique-style resort with an intimate atmosphere and spectacular oceanfront views.
Things to Do – Get the Most Out of Longboat Key
Rent a Boat at Cannons Marina
6040 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
The best way to experience Longboat Key is from the water! Rent a boat from Cannons Marina, cruise along the bay, and discover some of the most beautiful spots in the area.
Explore Sandbars & Hidden Coves – Spend the day at Jewfish Key or Beer Can Island, where the sand is soft, the water is crystal clear, and the vibe is pure paradise.
Dolphin Watching & Wildlife Spotting – Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, and an incredible variety of birds while you’re on the water or taking a stroll along the shore.
Bike or Walk the Island – Longboat Key’s scenic paths and quiet streets make it a great place to explore by bike or on foot.
Golf & Tennis at Longboat Key Club – Play on world-class golf courses or enjoy a game of tennis with breathtaking waterfront views.
Longboat Key’s Waterfront Parks
Joan M. Durante Park
5550 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
A peaceful spot with scenic trails, a boardwalk through mangroves, and beautiful bay views.
Bayfront Park Recreation Center
4052 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
A great place to launch a kayak, have a picnic, or just relax by the bay. The park also has a playground and dog-friendly areas.
Quick Point Nature Preserve
100 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, FL 34228
A hidden gem with walking trails, a small beach, and incredible bay views. Perfect for a quiet nature walk or photography.
Longboat Key is open, thriving, and more beautiful than ever. Whether you’re here for a day on the water with Cannons Marina, an incredible meal, or a long, relaxing stay, our island is ready to welcome you.
Public Beach Access Points
Longboat Key offers several public beach access points along its beautiful coastline. Here are the addresses and details for these access points:
- 2825 Gulf of Mexico Drive
Parking available at Town Hall (501 Bay Isles Rd.). - 3175 Gulf of Mexico Drive
On-site parking available. - 3355 Gulf of Mexico Drive
On-site parking available. - 3495 Gulf of Mexico Drive
Handicap-accessible parking on-site; additional parking across the street. - 4001 Gulf of Mexico Drive
Parking available at Bayfront Park. - 4711 Gulf of Mexico Drive
Handicap-accessible parking available; number of spaces may vary. - 4795 Gulf of Mexico Drive
Handicap-accessible parking available. - 6399 Gulfside Road
Parking available at General Harris Street. - 100 Broadway Street
Handicap-accessible parking available.
Limited parking available (approximately 30 spaces).
Please note that amenities such as restrooms or concessions are generally not available at these access points, and no dogs are allowed on the beach.
Visit the official Longboat Key website for more information.