Longboat Key, Florida is a barrier island retirement community. For seniors interested in the island, Senior Travel Genie provides resources for resorts, restaurants and more.

Longboat Key FL History

Longboat Key was the vacation land of the Timucuan and Caloosa Indians for hundreds of years. Shell mounds have been found showing that picnics and fish fries were commonplace. In 1539, Hernando DeSoto visited the area with his scout, Juan Anasco.

In 1891, Civil War veteran Thomas Mann settled with his grown sons on the north end and was awarded 144 acres as a homestead grant. One of his sons received another 144 acres on the southern end of the Key. Mann sold his land around the turn of the century for 500 dollars.

Homes were built on the north end of Longboat Key in the early 1900's, some of which are still standing. In the 1920's, John Ringling bought hundreds of acres on the south end and planted Australian pine trees from one end of the island to the other. During World War II, Longboat Key was sparsely inhabited. Near Longboat Harbor there was a target range for Army Air Force planes, which roared over firing 50-calibre bullets. Gates blocked Gulf of Mexico Drive while target practice was held and then opened again to let vehicles pass.

The town of Longboat Key incorporated in 1955.

Longboat Key Florida – Resort Community & Island Paradise

Today, Longboat Key Florida is popular among seniors as a resort and second-home community. It is well-known as a private, island paradise with accommodations to suit everyone.