The Resort at Longboat Key Club is the sort of property that gives guests a whole vacation without leaving the grounds. Longboat Key is the long barrier island between Sarasota and Anna Maria Island, quieter and more residential than Lido or Siesta, and the resort occupies a generous stretch of it. Golf courses, tennis facilities, a marina and Gulf-front space combine to make it a destination for active travelers and for groups who want to be together in one place. Accommodations range from rooms to suites and condo-style units, many with balconies or water views. The resort offers several restaurants and bars, pool areas and a spa or wellness facilities, depending on the season. Because the property is large and facilities change, check the current list of services, fees and any construction or renovation work when you book.
Golf and tennis are the headline activities. The resort is known for its courses and its tennis program, which attract enthusiasts who plan their trip around play. If you are a beginner, ask about lessons and clinics, and check dress codes and court or tee-time reservations. Non-players still find plenty to do, including pools, beach time, paddle and bike rentals and boat outings from the marina. Longboat Key's atmosphere is calm.
There are no big nightlife strips here; evenings are for long dinners, sunset walks and quiet drinks. If you want more action, Sarasota's downtown and St. Armands Circle are a short drive, and Anna Maria Island is a pleasant day trip north. The island is long and narrow, so a car or rideshare is useful for dinners off property. The resort suits families, multi-generational trips and corporate or wedding groups because of its size and range of room types.
Couples enjoy it as well, particularly in shoulder seasons when the property is quieter. Winter and spring bring the highest prices and the best weather. Summer is hot and stormy but offers lower rates, and hurricane season calls for flexible bookings. A few practical points: resort fees, parking charges and activity costs vary, so ask what is included. Request a room view that matches your priorities, whether Gulf, golf or marina.
Pack for sun and bring a light layer for restaurants with strong air conditioning. If you travel with children, ask about kids' programs, pool rules and beach equipment. The Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour from Anna Maria Island and the Robinson Preserve kayak tour are both within an easy drive for excursions. If you plan to play golf, reserve tee times when you book your room, and ask whether stay-and-play packages exist, since they can lower the total cost and simplify planning.
Why stay here
- ✓Golf courses
- ✓Tennis facilities
- ✓Gulf-front beach
- ✓Marina
- ✓Multiple restaurants and bars
- ✓Pool areas
- ✓Suites and condo-style units
- ✓Quiet barrier-island setting
Good questions
Where is Longboat Key relative to Sarasota?+
It is a barrier island just north of Lido Key and St. Armands, between Sarasota and Anna Maria Island.
Is it only for golfers?+
No. Tennis, the beach, pools and boating suit non-golfers too.
Do I need a car?+
A car or rideshare is helpful for dinners and excursions off property.