Location

Eleven-mile-long Manasota Key is a beautiful barrier island in Southwest Florida known as “the gem of the Suncoast,” about halfway between Tampa and Fort Myers. The Gulf Coast in general is considered the quiet coast, away from the hubbub of other Florida regions, yet rich in charm, culture, history, and spectacular natural beauty. A short bridge over Lemon Bay connects Manasota Key to the restaurants, shops and galleries of Englewood, yet the Key itself is pristine and nearly entirely residential, with a peaceful, unhurried mood. The southern end of the island is a mile-long state park, with walking trails, empty beaches, and abundant native flora and fauna.