Longboat & Siesta Keys
Manatee & Sarasota Counties, Florida
What to KnowLongboat & Siesta Keys are two barrier islands off the Gulf Coast of Florida spanning roughly 20-miles in total. While both offer residential housing and public beach access, Longboat Key is best known for its luxury homes, upscale hotels and impressive golf courses. Siesta Key is best known for its shopping, restaurants and family-friendly atmosphere.
*Median Age
66-71
For those looking to retire in year-round sunshine, the City of St. Pete Beach and the surrounding beaches are the ideal spot along Florida's Gulf Coast.
*Median Household Income
$158,000
Longboat Key boasts one of the highest household incomes along the Gulf Coast and is considerably higher than the state average. Although not as high, Siesta Key is also above average at nearly $116,000.
*Populations of Longboat & Siesta Keys
7,500 + 5,500
St. Pete Beach is the largest and most populous beach in Pinellas County. It plays host to many part-time residents and tourists throughout the winter months.
*Median Home Value
$1,100,000
Homes in both Longboat & Siesta Keys average just above $1,000,000, which is considerably higher than the national average of $359,870.
While not part of Florida’s famous chain of barrier islands extending from the bottom tip of its peninsula, these “Keys” or beaches get their name from the old Spanish word cayo, meaning small reef.
Notable AttractionsRanked the #9 beach in the United States, Madeira Beach is home to John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk. Once a fishing village, this area has been transformed into a thriving community area for retail shopping, rental properties and restaurants. Be sure to visit it in October for its annual Seafood Festival—a three day event with live music, fresh seafood and more.
Dotting the shorelines of Pinellas Beaches are well-known seafood restaurants and watering holes. Among the most famous is Caddy’s Waterfront Restaurant located on Treasure Island.
(Fun Fact: can you name the 2012 Channing Tatum film that featured this spot?)
*Other Beachfront Spots
Whitney's
For an elevated dining experience after a long day in the sun, try this local favorite on St. Pete Beach, which also features a 33,000 gallon fish tank!
Whitney's
Whether you're in the mood for pizza, crab or wings, this casual eatery has it all. Come for the music and drinks, and stay for incredible sunset views.
Looking to scout out the area before starting your next chapter? Here are some of my recommendations for where to stay while visiting.
Where to Stay
Located just steps from the beach, this Mediterranean-style hotel features a private rooftop lounge, a poolside bar, and complimentary water activities.
St. Regis
Known as “The Pink Palace,” this resort first opened in 1928 and features a luxury spa, on-site shopping, fine dining and private penthouse suites.
The Residences
This family-friendly spot sits on over 40 acres of beachfront and offers multiple pools, a 3-story water slide and a floating water park for the kids.