This 12 mile stretch of beach-to-bay resort living boasts a wealth of great homes, from the million-dollar condominiums of the gated Longboat Key Club on the south end to the wooden bungalows, ranch houses, vacation rentals and low-rise condos of the north end’s laid-back village. Gulf of Mexico Drive, which runs up the island’s spine, is lined with hot-pink oleanders and banyan trees and bordered by a popular bike and jogging trail. Longboat Key attracts people who could live anywhere in the world and many of the nations top retired executives call it their seasonal home.

While first impressions may lead you to believe that the beaches of Longboat are only for those who live in this exclusive Gulf-front community, it pays to take a closer look. There are at least eight Gulf-side public access points. Just look for the little blue signs. Among the most popular s Whitney Beach, on the north end of the key. Secluded and quiet, you will find nothing but white sand and sea oats, as far as the eye can see. Longboat Key stretches over 11 beautifully manicured miles.

Country Club Shores, Longboat Key

Country Club Shores comprises a series of canal and bayfront homes on the south end of Longboat Key. All the streets are named after types of sailboats and almost all of the houses are on a canal or the bay.

Longboat Key is Zip Code 34228