Orlando Magazine
A slender barrier island, Longboat Key is tucked between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay.
April 1, 2021
White sand beaches at Zota Beach Resort. (VISITSARASOTA.COM)
A slender barrier island, Longboat Key is tucked between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay. An abundance of greenery and meticulous landscaping frames its main road, Gulf of Mexico Drive, giving the 11-mile stretch a quiet air of sophistication. Signage and storefronts blend with nature instead of screaming for your attention. The road easily divides this ribbon of land Gulf-front homes on the west and bayfront properties on the east. It’s not unusual to see bicyclists pedaling along the area’s 10-mile bike path.