8,000 of visitors from colder climates flock to Longboat Key in season . Off winter , the island feels like the closest thing to having a private beach . Longboat Key is no more than a mile in length and less than 11 miles wide . Wingless creatures also pop up in unexpected places . Neighboring St. Armands Key offers a shopping circle of boutiques and restaurants .
8,000 of visitors from colder climates flock to Longboat Key in season . Off winter , the island feels like the closest thing to having a private beach . Longboat Key is no more than a mile in length and less than 11 miles wide . Neighboring St. Armands Key offers a shopping circle of boutiques and restaurants .