the Buttonwood Harbour community
Board of Directors Update
Get the latest update from the Buttonwood HOA board of directors, including announcements, upcoming events, and important community news.
Community Spotlight
Meet your fellow residents and learn about their contributions to the Buttonwood community. Each month, we feature a new resident who is making a difference.
Community Events
Stay up-to-date with the latest community events and activities happening in Buttonwood. From holiday parties to community cleanups, there's always something happening.
Community Feedback
Have a suggestion or concern? We want to hear from you. Share your feedback and help us make Buttonwood an even better place to live.
Community Resources
Access important community resources and documents, including meeting minutes, rules and regulations, and more.
Getting to know Buttonwood
Welcome!
Buttonwood Harbor: A Waterfront Haven with a passion for Community
Tucked away in the peaceful charm of Longboat Key, Buttonwood Harbor is more than just a neighborhood—it’s a close-knit coastal community where neighbors know each other by name and life moves to the rhythm of the tides. Nestled along Sarasota Bay, this hidden gem offers locals the perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxed living, and genuine connection.
Here, waterfront living isn’t just a luxury—it’s a way of life. Many homes come with private docks, making it easy to hop on a boat, cast a line, or set out for a sunset cruise with friends. The deep-water canal that runs through the neighborhood is a boater’s dream, attracting fishing enthusiasts and ocean lovers alike.
At the heart of Buttonwood Harbor is its community boat basin—a welcoming space where neighbors gather for potlucks, and casual get-togethers.
While Buttonwood Harbor feels like a world away, it’s just a short drive from the vibrant culture and charm of downtown Sarasota. Residents enjoy easy access to local farmers markets, art galleries, live music, and some of the Gulf Coast’s best dining and shopping.
Whether you're looking to slow things down or dive into all that the Gulf Coast has to offer, Buttonwood Harbor is a place where community comes first and every day feels like a vacation. Welcome to your little piece of paradise on Longboat Key.
top 5 on LBK
1. The Beaches
Longboat Key’s 11 miles of powdery sand and gentle Gulf waters are a daily joy for residents and visitors alike. The beaches are uncrowded and serene, making them ideal for peaceful walks, quiet swims, and time to reconnect with nature. At the northern end, Whitney Beach offers a tranquil escape and holds a “Blue Wave Certification” from the Clean Beaches Coalition, reflecting a shared commitment to preservation. Nearby Beer Can (Greer) Island, a favorite of locals, is best reached by boat or shoreline walk, offering picturesque driftwood, native wildlife, and laid-back picnicking under the sun.
2. The Places to Stay
While Longboat Key values its small-town feel, it also welcomes guests with a variety of thoughtful accommodations that blend comfort with the island’s natural charm:
- Luxury Resorts: The new St. Regis is redefining luxury stays on Longboat. Zota Beach Resort offers refined charm with modern touches and both have easy access to the shore.
- Boutique Hotels & Cozy Inns: Smaller spots like White Sands of Longboat, Sea Grape Inn, and Wicker Inn Beach Resort provide a warm, authentic feel — perfect for those seeking a quiet, neighborly vibe.
- Vacation Rentals: Visitors looking for more space can find charming vacation rentals across the island, available through trusted local providers like Cabana Beach Club, Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals, Wagner Realty, and AMI Locals/Prime Vacations.
3. The Natural Wonders
Longboat Key is a place where nature is part of everyday life. From birdwatching to kayaking, the island’s preserved spaces invite gentle exploration. Joan M. Durante Park is a local treasure with shaded trails, mangrove tunnels, and spots for families to relax and connect. Residents and guests alike appreciate the peaceful rhythm of Beer Can Island, where nature shows off its artistry through sculptural driftwood and abundant wildlife.
4. The Food Scene
Food is one of the many ways Longboat Key brings people together — whether for a celebratory dinner or a casual catch-up over breakfast:
- Local Favorites with Upscale Flair: Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant and SHORE offer fresh seafood and waterfront views with a laid-back elegance. Longtime favorites like The Lazy Lobster, Harry’s Continental Kitchens, and Euphemia Haye provide memorable meals that keep locals coming back.
- Social Spots: The Monkey Bar St. Regis and Lo’ Key Island Grille are two newcomers ideal for meeting friends and socializing.
- Casual Bites: Start your day like a local at Whitney’s, Blue Dolphin Café, or Longbeach Café — each full of charm and community feel.
5. The Peaceful Pace
What makes Longboat Key truly special is its sense of peace — not just in its landscapes, but in the way of life here. With no high-rises or hectic crowds, the island encourages a slower, more intentional rhythm that many residents hold dear. Whether you’re renting a paddleboard from Cannons Marina, watching a quiet sunset at Whitney Beach, or simply enjoying a moment of stillness on the sand, Longboat Key offers space to breathe — and a reminder to respect and preserve the island for all who love it.