Florida’s Longboat Key among Forbes Travel Guide’s “Top 12 Travel Destinations for 2025”

Published on December 31, 2024

By: Paramita Sarkar

In a major recognition of its charm and allure, Longboat Key, a tranquil barrier island off the coast of Sarasota, Florida, has earned a coveted spot on Forbes Travel Guide’s “Top 12 Destinations for 2025.”

The list, which highlights unique locales around the globe, underscores the growing appeal of Longboat Key as a luxury travel destination.

Why Longboat Key Stands Out

Longboat Key spans parts of Sarasota and Manatee counties along Florida’s west coast. Known for its pristine, soft white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and serene nature preserves, the island offers a picturesque getaway for travelers. Forbes describes it as a “tranquil barrier island” where visitors can experience “12 miles of soft white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.”

The article emphasizes the role of The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort in bringing Longboat Key into the spotlight. Opened in August 2024, the resort is the first U.S. debut for the luxury St. Regis brand in nearly 50 years. Its opening marks the most significant development on the island in decades.

The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort: A Game-Changer

Situated on an 18-acre beachfront property that once housed the iconic Colony Beach and Tennis Resort, The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort offers a luxurious retreat. Guests can enjoy 168 elegantly designed rooms and suites with coastal accents, multiple pools and cabanas, and 800 feet of private beach.

The resort also features a saltwater lagoon that provides an up-close experience with wildlife such as stingrays, tortoises, and tropical fish. Its average room rate is $1,200 per night, reflecting its status as a premium destination.

Dining at The St. Regis is an equally indulgent experience, with four main dining venues:

• CW Prime: A steakhouse with a refined menu.
• Riva: A Northern Italian restaurant.
• Aura: A Latin American-inspired eatery.
• Oshen: An exclusive rooftop lounge serving Asian fusion cuisine (available only to hotel guests and members).

The resort also boasts The St. Regis Bar, The Monkey Bar, and Caroline’s Café, offering diverse culinary and beverage options. While most restaurants are open to the public, Oshen is reserved for guests and members.

Recognition in Context

The inclusion of Longboat Key on Forbes’ prestigious list comes after other recent accolades. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill, a popular local restaurant overlooking Sarasota Bay, was named one of OpenTable’s “Top 100 Restaurants in America” for 2024. These honors underscore the area’s growing reputation as both a dining and travel hotspot.

Forbes’ 2025 list also features other global destinations, including cities and regions in South Asia, North Africa, and Australia. In the U.S., Longboat Key shares the spotlight with other notable locations such as Asheville, North Carolina.

Location and Accessibility

Longboat Key lies just south of Anna Maria Island and west of Sarasota, Florida. It is part of the North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota metropolitan area and is located approximately six miles northwest of downtown Sarasota. This proximity allows visitors to easily explore Sarasota’s Bayfront Park and other attractions.

Looking Ahead

With its pristine natural beauty and elevated luxury offerings, Longboat Key is poised to attract a global audience in 2025. The recognition by Forbes reinforces the island’s potential as a destination for those seeking tranquility and sophistication in equal measure.

Whether lounging on the beach, dining at world-class restaurants, or enjoying the serene environment of The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, visitors are sure to find an unforgettable experience on this charming Florida island.