Exploring the captivating coastal towns of Longboat Key vs Venice in Florida reveals two unique slices of paradise, each offering distinct charms and lifestyle experiences. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences, highlighting the location, beaches, types of homes, city services, things to do, and price points of each destination. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious resort atmosphere or a vibrant local community, this guide will help you determine which coastal paradise is the perfect fit for you.
Location and Accessibility
Longboat Key
Longboat Key is a natural barrier island that boasts stunning beauty. It straddles both Sarasota County and Manatee County, with Longboat Pass to the north and St. Armands Key to the south. The island spans over 10 miles from north to south, running the entire length of the Gulf of Mexico. Access to Longboat Key is limited to two bridges—one on the north and one on the south—making it somewhat isolated from the mainland. This isolation contributes to the island’s exclusive and serene ambiance but can also result in slow-moving traffic during peak times.
Venice Island
In contrast, Venice Island is a man-made island created in the 1960s by dredging the Intracoastal Waterway. Located about a 15-minute drive south of Sarasota, Venice Island is more accessible, with three bridges providing easy access. This additional connectivity helps alleviate traffic congestion, especially during the busy tourist season, making it more convenient for residents and visitors to move on and off the island.
Beaches and Beach Access
Longboat Key
Longboat Key is renowned for its pristine beaches and numerous beach access points. The island features a dozen public beaches, with the most notable being the North Shore Road beach at the northern tip of the island. This beach offers parking for about 30 cars, making it a secluded and tranquil spot. From here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and even catch a glimpse of Anna Maria Island. The remaining 11 beach accesses on Longboat Key are smaller, each accommodating parking for 20 to 30 cars, providing an intimate beach experience.
Venice Island
Venice Island also boasts beautiful beaches, with about nine public beaches, many of which offer large public parking lots. Notable beaches include Venice Main Beach, the Venice Fishing Pier, Broward Paw Park, and Caspersen Beach. These beaches are well-equipped with amenities and are more extensive, providing ample space for visitors. An interesting distinction is that Venice Beach is known for its shark tooth hunting and scuba diving activities, which are not typically seen on Longboat Key.
Types of Homes and Neighborhoods
Longboat Key
The real estate landscape on Longboat Key is diverse, offering a wide range of housing options. From single-family beachfront and bayfront homes to numerous beachfront condos, the island caters to various preferences. Many older homes have been replaced with expansive, stately residences, and there are numerous country clubs, tennis clubs, and resort-style communities. Home prices on Longboat Key reflect its high-end appeal, with beachfront condos starting around $700,000 to $800,000 and single-family homes ranging from $1 million to several million dollars, depending on their age and features. Canal-front homes, perfect for boating enthusiasts, can vary from just over $1 million for older properties to $5 million for newer, luxurious homes.
Venice Island
Venice Island offers a mix of housing options, though there are fewer waterfront homes compared to Longboat Key. The island is known for its abundance of low-rise, older condos, many of which are affordably priced from $350,000 to $400,000. Single-family homes and villas are also available, with prices varying based on proximity to the beach and city center. Direct beachfront homes are rare but do occasionally come up for sale. Additionally, Venice Island features manufactured home communities, providing more budget-friendly options for residents.
City Services
Longboat Key
Longboat Key operates as its own city, offering comprehensive city services, including fire, police, and other municipal services. The island’s boutique size ensures that residents receive attentive and localized services. However, public schools are not available on Longboat Key; the southern portion of the island is served by Sarasota County Schools, while the northern portion is served by Manatee County Schools.
Venice Island
Venice Island is part of the city of Venice, which provides robust city services, including its own police and fire departments. Residents have access to a range of municipal services, making it a well-serviced community. Unlike Longboat Key, Venice Island has several schools, including Epiphany Catholic School, Venice Elementary School, and Venice High School, along with additional private schooling options.
Things to Do
Longboat Key
Longboat Key offers a variety of recreational activities and amenities, including several exceptional parks such as Bayfront Park. The island is a haven for tennis enthusiasts, with numerous tennis resorts and a well-equipped tennis center featuring 10 courts, open play, leagues, and lessons. Boating and fishing are popular pastimes, and there are a few excellent restaurants on the island, with many more dining options available nearby on St. Armands Circle. Longboat Key also has a biking and walking path, providing a scenic route for outdoor activities.
Venice Island
Venice Island is a vibrant community with a plethora of activities and events. The presence of Venice High School adds to the island’s dynamic atmosphere, with school events and sports games bringing the community together. Cultural attractions include the Venice Theatre, Centennial Park, and a community center that hosts concerts, arts and crafts festivals, and more. The island is also home to a public golf course, numerous biking and walking paths, and a weekly farmer’s market. Annual events such as the Shark Tooth Festival and Italian Festival further enhance the island’s lively character.
Price Points
Longboat Key
The upscale nature of Longboat Key is reflected in its real estate prices. Beachfront condos typically start around $700,000 to $800,000, while single-family homes range from $1 million for older properties to several million dollars for newer, luxurious homes. Canal-front homes also command high prices, with older homes starting just over $1 million and newer homes ranging from $2.5 million to $5 million or more.
Venice Island
Venice Island offers a more affordable range of housing options. Older low-rise condos near the beach can be found for as low as $350,000 to $400,000, while single-family homes and villas vary in price depending on their location and size. Direct beachfront homes are rare and command higher prices, but there are budget-friendly options available in manufactured home communities.
Longboat Key vs Venice, Florida: Uncovering the Best Coastal Paradise Destinations!
Longboat Key and Venice Island each offer distinct coastal living experiences, catering to different preferences and lifestyles. Longboat Key exudes an upscale, resort-style ambiance with luxurious homes, exclusive amenities, and a serene environment. In contrast, Venice Island presents a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere with diverse housing options, numerous activities, and a rich cultural scene. Whether you prefer the high-end, secluded feel of Longboat Key or the lively, accessible charm of Venice Island, both destinations provide unique and desirable coastal living opportunities in Florida.
If you have any questions about Longboat Key or Venice Island or need assistance finding your perfect home in these beautiful coastal towns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We have the expertise and dedication to help you navigate the real estate market and discover the ideal location that suits your needs and lifestyle.
Also read:Ultimate Guide to Retirement Destinations in Sarasota: Live Your Best Life in Paradise!
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