Longboat Key, Florida Beaches

While much of Longboat Key's beach is lined with private homes, condominiums and rental properties that limit public access to the beach, there are a number of beach access points on Longboat Key leading to the Gulf of Mexico. There are 11 beach access points on Gulf of Mexico Dr.. None of the public beach access points have any facilities such as bathrooms, concessions or lifeguards. Although, there are restrooms at Bayfront Park parking area.

As you travel along Gulf of Mexico Dr. on Longboat Key, keep an eye out for the blue and white beach access signs along the side of the road. Some of the access points offer parking at the beach access point while others on Longboat Key offer parking nearby. Here is a list of the Longboat Key beach access points:

2825 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Parking available at Town Hall (501 Bay Isles Rd.)
3175 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Parking available on site
3355 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Parking available on site
3495 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Handicap Accessible on site, also parking across street
4001 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Parking available at Bayfront Park (4052 GMD)
4711 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Handicap Accessible parking on site
4795 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Handicap Accessible parking on site
6399 Gulfside Road Parking available at General Harris Street
6847 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Parking available at Broadway Access
100 Broadway St. Handicap Accessible parking on site
7055 Seabreeze Ave. No parking available

Unlike public beaches in Sarasota County, the town of Longboat Key prohibits alcohol on the beach.

The beach is very natural and some of the access points are more secluded making it ideal for a beach picnic. Keeping in mind the lack of public facilities when you plan your visit. There are shops and restaurants nearby and a large Publix supermarket at 525 Bay Isles Rd. The sand on Longboat Key is not the same fine white powder you find on Siesta Key as well. It is a more dark and granular variety. However, if you are interested in collecting seashells, they are easier to find along Longboat Key. With a mask and snorkel, it is also very easy to find sand dollars sticking out of the sand just a little ways offshore.

Coquina Beach - Bradenton Beach

Just off the northern tip of Longboat Key across the drawbridge is the island of Anna Maria and the town of Bradenton Beach and its Coquina Beach. Coquina Beach is approximately 1.5 miles long and offers typical amenities for beachgoers.

Bike Racks

Concessions

Grills

Multi-Purpose Trail (paved)

Pavilions

Picnic Tables

Playgrounds

Rest Rooms

Shower

Trolley Stop

Volleyball (sand)

Directly adjacent to the public beach is a very large picnic area, making Coquina Beach very popular for families and weekend barbeques. The beach also offers a number of pavilions that are available for rent for private parties.

Like Longboat Key, alcoholic beverages are prohibited on Manatee County public beaches. Pets are also prohibited at Coquina Beach.