Considering Longboat Key, Lido Key and St. Armands Key as your next vacation destination?  If you’ve never experienced our gorgeous sandy beaches, alluring Gulf waters, magnificent restaurants and world-class shopping, our performing and fine art facilities, and our relaxed, laid back lifestyle, treat yourself to one of the most enjoyable vacations you’ve ever had.  If you’re considering a repeat visit, we’re looking forward to seeing you again for as you already know, there’s much more to see and do here than what you can cover in just one stay.

There are two distinctly different ways to experience our little island paradise, by land and by sea (or Gulf, as the case may be).  Both are equally pleasurable and both have their own allure, so to truly experience all we have to offer, plan to get out on the water, but also spend some time exploring by car, by bike and by foot.  The possibilities are endless.

A great deal of our charm is due to the fact that we’re bounded to the west by one of the most beautiful bodies of water on the planet, the Gulf of Mexico, which is also a fine foreground for some of the most stunning sunsets you’ll ever witness (be sure to watch for the elusive “green flash”).  To the east lies Sarasota Bay, a tranquil buffer between mainland and the barrier islands and home to dolphins, manatees, superb fishing, eagles, egrets and ospreys, as well as a water sports paradise.

No need to BYOB, i.e. bring your own boat.  Cannons Marina and Cannons By The Sea Cottages, family-owned since the 50’s and a slice of old Florida complete with island charm, character and characters, is conveniently located on the northern half of Longboat Key and they’ll have literally everything you need for a day or a week on the water.  Their impeccably maintained fleet of Grady-White, Scout and Hurricane rental boats, all outfitted with reliable Yamaha motors, comes in a variety of sizes to comfortably suit your needs.  They also carry fuel, bait, tackle, charts, clothing, sunscreen, drinks and advice – just about everything you’ll need for a memorable voyage.

The folks at Cannons can also clue you in on great destinations whether you’re out for a sightseeing cruise, a leisurely lunch, a day’s fishing, some water skiing (they can even rent you skis!), a combination of the above or to just to drop anchor and bury your toes for awhile on a remote stretch of sand.  Cannons is where the locals rent boats, so you know they’re the best.

Once you motor away from Cannons’ docks and make your way into Sarasota Bay, you’ll be presented with choices.  To the right in the distance lies the Sarasota skyline and all the “city” offers, but between you and it there are secluded islands to explore, fishing grounds teeming with hungry lunkers, restaurants with easy water access, very private anchorages and, well, fun.  And isn’t that why you’re coming?  To the left are the Sister Keys, a conservation area that will remain forever wild, Jewfish Key, sand spits that come and go with the tides and make lovely stop-overs, exquisite beaches and, even further to the north, the mouth of Tampa Bay.  You might want to arrange for one outing to go right and another to go left.  There’s no wrong decision and you will be met with beauty and memory makers whichever way you turn.

So make your plans, book your accommodations, call Cannons to arrange for a boat either in advance or when you get here (wouldn’t hurt to do it before you leave), and be ready to get sand between your toes.  The Gulf coast of Florida is the best part of the state and the islands of Longboat, Lido and St. Armands are our jewels.  We’ll see you here.

Cannons Marina is located at 6040 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, ICW marker 33, at cannons.com and by phone at (941) 383-1311.