Longboat Key is probably the only island on the Gulf Coast that still exudes the charm of Old Florida while maintaining an air of elegance and exclusivity for its residents.
Most of the eleven mile stretch of beach is exclusive to the residents of the Longboat Key found on the island.
For this reason, tourists rarely flock to the island for the beach.
Families that have chosen to take their permanent place of residence on Longboat Key can enjoy an array of amenities that are scattered on the island.
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions on the Key which can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Here, you will be able to view various species of marine life and even get the opportunity to feed the sharks if you go on a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday.
If you and your kids enjoy water sports, you can take them kayaking, sailing, and adventure cruises that are offered on the only public beach on the island, Whitney Beach.
Excellent dining choices can be found on the Gulf of Mexico Drive, the only major road on the island.
One of the most popular upscale restaurants on the island is the Plaza Steakhouse and Wine Cellar where you can enjoy a night of good food and fine wine Al Fresco on their outdoor patio facing the Gulf Coast.
For a more family oriented dining experience and a taste of the largest and most delicious crab claws, head to the north of the island where you will find Moore's Stone Crab Restaurant.
In this neighborhood, you will see also harems of peacocks roaming freely and showing off their plumes.
If there is one real estate development that is the epitome of everything that luxurious island and condo living, it would be the Bayport real estate development.
Located in 501 - 843 Bayport Way, this condominium community is sought after by buyers of Longboat Key real estate properties.
All 136 condo units of Bayport fit into strategically placed low rise building clusters to allow residents easy access to the in house amenities and fantastic views of its lawns.
Since its construction in 1983, Bayport has won numerous awards for its perfectly landscaped grounds and beautiful botanical gardens.
Residents of this community can enjoy the resort style swimming pool, state of the art tennis courts, and recreation room among other things, which are exclusive to Bayport homeowners.
You only need to cross the road to access the Bayport's private beach, which stretches to about 1,200 feet.
Bayport condos for sale have price tags that vary around $330,000 to $630,000.
Floor plans for these units start from 1,260 up to 2,134 square feet.
Homebuyers can choose between two or three bedroom units which come with two bathrooms.
Every homeowner is entitled to a space in the community's covered parking area.
Investing in a condo on Longboat Key will be like living a life long vacation on a tropical island.
With all the luxurious amenities found on the island itself and downtown Sarasota and Anna Maria Island only a bridge away, you will never get bored living on the Key.