Buttonwood Harbour Longboat Key

Explore Longboat Key, our Beautiful Neighborhood and The Buttonwood Harbour Association. Connect with neighbors, enjoy life!

Getting to know Buttonwood

A serene beach with bare trees and gentle ocean waves under a clear blue sky.

Welcome!

Buttonwood Harbor: A beautiful neighborhood 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 within the Buttonwood Beach Association 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 gulf lovers alike.

At the heart of Buttonwood Harbor is its community boat marina—a welcoming space where neighbors gather for potlucks and casual get-togethers, fostering a strong sense of community.

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

A serene coastal scene with clear blue water, a sandy beach, and a wooden pier.

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, including the serene Buttonwood Beach Association, are uncrowded, 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, providing picturesque driftwood, native wildlife, and laid-back picnicking under the sun. For those exploring the area, Longboat Harbour and Buttonwood Cove add to the charm of this coastal paradise.

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. For those looking to connect with the local community, options like Buttonwood Beach Association and Buttonwood Cove offer unique stays. Vacation Rentals: Visitors looking for more space can find charming vacation rentals across the island, including those near Longboat Harbour and Longboat Harbor, 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. Nearby, the Buttonwood Beach Association and Buttonwood Cove offer additional serene escapes, while Longboat Harbor and Longboat Harbour provide stunning views and recreational opportunities for those who cherish the outdoors.

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, perfect for those enjoying the nearby Buttonwood Beach Association. Longtime favorites like The Lazy Lobster, Harry’s Continental Kitchens, and Euphemia Haye provide memorable meals that keep locals coming back to areas like Buttonwood Cove. Social Spots: The Monkey Bar St. Regis and Lo’ Key Island Grille are two newcomers ideal for meeting friends and socializing, all while enjoying the charm of Longboat Harbour. Casual Bites: Start your day like a local at Whitney’s, Blue Dolphin Café, or Longbeach Café — each full of charm and community feel, making them great stops for those exploring the beautiful Longboat Harbor.

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, including those from the Buttonwood Beach Association, hold dear. Whether you’re renting a paddleboard from Cannons Marina, enjoying the serene atmosphere of Buttonwood Cove, watching a quiet sunset at Whitney Beach, or simply savoring a moment of stillness on the sand at Longboat Harbor, Longboat Key offers space to breathe — and a reminder to respect and preserve the island for all who love it, including the cherished Longboat Harbour.