Longboat Key, a long narrow barrier island off of the coast of Florida, provides entertainment, excitement, and beauty to vacationers. Guests of Longboat Key vacation rentals, homes, and cabins experience not only sunny Florida weather and magnificent white sandy beaches but also attractions that are unique to the Longboat Key area. Swimming, shelling, fishing, waterskiing, boating, tennis, and parasailing are some of the popular water sports, while bikers and hikers are more at home on the Gulf of Mexico Drive path.
The Mote Marine Aquarium is right near Longboat Key, and is home to advanced research facilities dealing with various forms of aquatic life. There are sharks, a lab, and in-depth tours, as well as fascinating insight into the life of marine mammals. The Ann and Alfred Goldstein Marine Mammal Research Center touches on many of the same attractions, offering displays on manatees, dolphins, and even whales. A drive will take guests of Longboat Key vacation rentals and condos to Disney World, Tampa, or some of the other outstanding destinations, including golf courses and museums, of the area.