Longboat Key; East or West?

My husband and I have always loved to travel but it was when we first came to Longboat Key, Florida, that we considered moving from our home in Los Angeles. Spend any time here and you will understand the attraction. However, deciding on living on the east or west side of Gulf of Mexico Drive which runs the length of the key, is where you might find a beautiful challenge.

On the west you’ll be on the Gulf/beach side, on the east is the Bay/Intracoastal Waterway side. So, what option did we choose? Well, our love of golfing drew us to Harbour Circle in the gated community of Bay Isles with private beach club access. It's perfect for us. But what works best for you? Believe it or not, there are some pros and cons relating to our idyllic island living that will help you narrow down two beautiful choices. Of course, I am happy to help you find your perfect match anywhere on the Island or along the Suncoast.

Gulf or Beach Side (West)

 
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Pros:

  • The Beach - for many, that is all that it takes.

  • Sunsets on the Gulf – picturesque is putting it mildly.

  • The View - postcard-ready, bright blue waters that sparkle during the day, and often envelope you in complete and comforting blackness at night.

  • The Sound - is there anything more soothing than to sleep to the sounds of soft waves on the beach!

  • Nature - you may catch a glimpse of frolicking dolphins, a visiting crab, starfish or other little creatures that share our beautiful beaches.

Cons:

  • Lights out! Turtle season is May 1 to Oct 31 and there are light and other restrictions. For details, visit the Town of Longboat Key website for more.

  • Storms and hurricanes - not all that frequent but it increases your insurance rates. I recommend getting the best coverage available for peace of mind.

  • Not the best for avid boaters as there are no private docks on the Gulf side

  • Price – a bigger investment but the views are truly priceless.

  • Red Tide - though a seasonal event that varies in severity from invisible to obnoxious - more often than not, you won't even notice.

Bay or Intracoastal Waterfront Property (East)

 
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Pros:

  • The View – you have options like a horizon of glimmering water, marina views and the lovely skyline of the downtown Sarasota in the distance. At night, the soft reflections of city lights offer unparalleled beauty.

  • Nature – manatee sightings; these gentle water creatures are calming and exciting at the same time.

  • Boating - easy access to the waterways and a number of properties with available docks.

  • Fishing - put out a line on this side for tarpon, redfish and snook to name a few.

  • Value – you may prefer the lower price and insurance rates that accompany a Bayside purchase.

Cons:

  • Beach Access - not as readily available for every property and can be a bit of a trek on foot – but think of the healthy living factor!

  • Though surrounded by beauty all day long, there are no direct sunset views over the Gulf.

For the best of both worlds, you may want the very south end of the Key in the exclusive Lighthouse Point community, or head north towards Anna Maria Island and all it offers its Longboat Key neighbors. Of course, the final decision comes down to your personal preferences in island living like community amenities, proximity to downtown Sarasota or St. Armands Cirle, and what make a house a home - to you.

Let’s discuss your wish list so like me, we can find you the perfect place here on Longboat Key or the other nearby Keys that make Sarasota the paradise we treasure so dearly. Contact me today by email at beverlysthilaire@michaelsaunders.com, call 941-504-3303, or send a text to 818-416-2505.

Laura Coyle