Siesta Key sits adjacent to the glittering Gulf of Mexico and its Siesta Public Beach has been named the nation’s best — twice. This quaint yet quirky 8-mile-long island offers shopping, resorts, dining and nightlife. Known for its brilliant quartz sand, turquoise waters and many beachside amenities, Siesta Key is a must-visit island paradise. Siesta Key offers something for everyone. Siesta Key is a romantic getaway for lovers, a family vacation destination and a playground for active sports enthusiasts. And don’t forget: Wherever you stay, the beach and bay are always nearby.
Longboat Key shoreline consists of a white sand beach on the Gulf of Mexico. On both the north and south ends, Longboat Key is separated from neighboring islands by deep water passes from the Gulf to Sarasota Bay. On Longboat Key you’ll discover an elegant tropical setting that offers every amenity you can imagine. A large number of Longboat Key’s nearly 6,000 residents enjoy the island’s championship golf course and tennis club, and its dining and shopping. Longboat Key brings you an elegant and scenic environment that offers the rare combination of breathtaking beaches and cultural activities – all within a relaxed and elegant lifestyle.
Venice, just south of Sarasota along Florida’s white-sanded Gulf Coast, offers 14 miles of beaches, from Casey Key to Manasota Key and plenty of recreational opportunities, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing and boating.
Shelling is also a favorite pastime in Venice, and fossilized shark’s teeth can be found in abundance by sifting through the sand.
Golfers enjoy excellent courses in the greater Venice area.
Venice also is a Florida Main Street City – its downtown graced by northern Italian architecture and beautifully landscaped boulevards that date to the original city plans of 1925 and reminiscent of the Italian city of Venice whose name it borrowed.
Laid-back and natural, Anna Maria Island awaits – a mere 20 minutes from Bradenton. A seven-mile strip of beautiful white-sand beaches lines the barrier island of Anna Maria Island between the turquoise Gulf of Mexico and peninsular Florida.
Also found near Anna Maria Island, at the southern mouth of Tampa Bay, are the cities of Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, Casey Key, Venice, and Manasota Key.
Strict regulations govern the type of buildings and businesses allowed on Anna Maria Island, giving it an old-time feel. But excellent dining – seafood, of course! – is very much encouraged. Come visit – you well might feel as though you have journeyed to an elegant past.