{"id":224,"date":"2011-01-05T03:27:00","date_gmt":"2011-01-05T08:27:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/2011\/01\/05\/one-key-unlocks-it-all-%e2%80%93-longboat-key\/"},"modified":"2024-03-19T21:41:52","modified_gmt":"2024-03-20T01:41:52","slug":"one-key-unlocks-it-all-longboat-key","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/one-key-unlocks-it-all-longboat-key\/","title":{"rendered":"One key unlocks it all \u2013 Longboat Key"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><em><strong>See update 3-19-2024 at<\/strong><\/em> https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/2024\/03\/19\/one-key-unlocks-it-all-longboat-key-redux-2024\/<\/p>\n<p><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-divider stk-block-divider stk-block\"><hr class=\"stk-block-divider__hr\" \/><\/div>\n<p><\/p>\n<p>The holidays are over and many snowbirds will be looking to get out of the frigid climes. Everyone expects the people of Cleveland and Buffalo to start heading south, but this winter, we can probably also include a good number of folks from D.C., Virginia and even North Carolina as well. So where do you head?<\/p>\n<p>Florida is the obvious destination for most of those who want to stay stateside, but just where in this huge, wonderful state will you land. A not-so-well known area near Sarasota could be your special destination.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh4.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCZMGbWwI\/AAAAAAAAASo\/oifAa-sdx1g\/s1600-h\/100922_3CS1533H4.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"100922_3CS1533H\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh4.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCaYwy_yI\/AAAAAAAAASs\/3ntEhnUlwhM\/100922_3CS1533H_thumb1.jpg?resize=499%2C330\" alt=\"100922_3CS1533H\" width=\"499\" height=\"330\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Just like a magical key is used to unlock a treasure chest, so <strong><a title=\"Doug's list of recommended places around Longboat Key\" href=\"http:\/\/maps.google.com\/maps\/ms?hl=en&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;msa=0&amp;msid=200342001240590662421.00049881fa78aa6bde9b6&amp;ll=27.359571,-82.539597&amp;spn=0.259791,0.501938&amp;z=11\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Longboat Key<\/a><\/strong> is your ticket to a magical vacation. Just 12 miles from downtown Sarasota, this pristine barrier island sits on the west coast of Florida. North of Cape Coral and south of Tampa, it\u2019s a relaxed location \u2013 close to whatever attractions you fancy, but out of the traffic and the hustle of typical vacation destinations.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh4.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCcNiXa5I\/AAAAAAAAASw\/FpGfLc8ZIXE\/s1600-h\/100921_3CS08793.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"100921_3CS0879\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh3.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCdIzaaPI\/AAAAAAAAAS0\/tSDEsl9Gxs8\/100921_3CS0879_thumb.jpg?resize=244%2C164\" alt=\"100921_3CS0879\" width=\"244\" height=\"164\" align=\"left\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>For starters, if you are looking to relax and unwind for a week or even a weekend, you\u2019d be well advised to check out the charming <a href=\"http:\/\/www.sandpiperinn.com\/FL\/\">Sandpiper Inn<\/a>. On a secluded stretch of beach, each ground-level apartment offers a glimpse of the ocean from your own private patio outside your front door. Each room is extremely spacious and offers wi-fi, cable TV and DVD player, as well as all the vacation kitchen necessities. It\u2019s a great base of operations as you explore the surrounding area. <a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCdpX_SzI\/AAAAAAAAAS4\/PrG6XODSHRw\/s1600-h\/100920_3CS06799.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"Sandpiper Inn\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh5.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCeeEL34I\/AAAAAAAAAS8\/4502t94zkWA\/100920_3CS0679_thumb6.jpg?resize=173%2C118\" alt=\"Sandpiper Inn\" width=\"173\" height=\"118\" align=\"right\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>A large cabana, a small pool and a waterfall all provide great places to relax outdoors. Contact <a href=\"mailto:innkeeper@sandpiperinn.com\">Richard and Mary Lou<\/a>, the innkeepers to see if they have availability for your selected dates.<\/p>\n<p><b><i>What to do while you\u2019re there:<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Shopping<\/i><\/b> Walk across the street to some neighborhood shops or drive 13 minutes south to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.starmandscircleassoc.com\/\">St. Armand Circle<\/a> where you\u2019ll find over 100 boutique shops just made for wandering. With the feel of an elegant European marketplace, you could spend hours here.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh3.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCfgYoZGI\/AAAAAAAAATA\/d8Ijl4eDwCM\/s1600-h\/100920_3CS077411.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"Boat ride on Sarasota Bay\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh5.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCgPKAj9I\/AAAAAAAAATI\/08R_pw0UYA0\/100920_3CS0774_thumb5.jpg?resize=110%2C162\" alt=\"Boat ride on Sarasota Bay\" width=\"110\" height=\"162\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a><b><i><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTChQtAZjI\/AAAAAAAAATM\/Vi9eXM-SiOc\/s1600-h\/100920_3CS07029.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"Boat ride on Sarasota Bay\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCiZF4zlI\/AAAAAAAAATQ\/WQIIl2cY9dc\/100920_3CS0702_thumb3.jpg?resize=373%2C161\" alt=\"Boat ride on Sarasota Bay\" width=\"373\" height=\"161\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><i>Cruising <\/i><\/b>With all the water around you, you can\u2019t possibly spend all your time on land. Contact <a href=\"mailto:info@liquidlimousinecharters.com\">Jimmy Seaton<\/a> with <a href=\"http:\/\/www.liquidlimousinecharters.com\/\">Liquid Limousine Charters<\/a> and spend an unforgettable cruise on the Sarasota Bay. Whether you prefer watching birds, nature or seaside real estate; a sunset cruise can\u2019t be beat. Jimmy can also arrange land and air limos as well. He\u2019s the perfect host for that special evening on the water.<\/p>\n<p><b><i><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCjo6vPRI\/AAAAAAAAATU\/eYHTnltvAbs\/s1600-h\/100922IMG_42868.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"Fishing with Capt. Makr Gore\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCkjjLZII\/AAAAAAAAATY\/clKSt7O_D08\/100922IMG_4286_thumb2.jpg?resize=184%2C244\" alt=\"Fishing with Capt. Makr Gore\" width=\"184\" height=\"244\" align=\"left\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>Fishing<\/i><\/b> You\u2019ve got the whole Gulf of Mexico at your doorstep; why not grab a rod and cast out to see what you\u2019ll be able to bring ashore? Oh, you didn\u2019t bring your surfcasting rod. No problem, <a href=\"mailto:http:\/\/www.captainmarkgore.com\/Home_Page.php\">Captain Mark Gore<\/a> can handle everything you need. Coming from three generations of hunters and fishermen, Mark\u2019s family offers complete service hunting and fishing sessions. He provides everything from your fishing license to your rod and reel. Learn to catch your own bait with a cast net, and then spend the morning hauling in one fish after another.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh3.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCmK_6qzI\/AAAAAAAAATc\/4uK6v4WMJ_A\/s1600-h\/100922_3CS16107.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"Stripped burrfish at the Mote Research Center and Aquarium\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh4.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCmmFxi8I\/AAAAAAAAATg\/BZIk3_pk-O4\/100922_3CS1610_thumb1.jpg?resize=244%2C164\" alt=\"Stripped burrfish at the Mote Research Center and Aquarium\" width=\"244\" height=\"164\" align=\"right\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>Maybe you prefer your fish behind glass. If so, the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mote.org\/\">Mote Aquarium<\/a> is a quick drive and an afternoon of fun. From the Shark Zone to the Dolphin Lagoon, you\u2019ll meet them all. You\u2019ll get up close and personal with giant sea turtles, harmless stingrays and manatees. In the laboratory, you\u2019ll see marine research being done first hand. When you\u2019ve finished walking the building, go outside, down the sidewalk and enter building number two. The fun goes on and on.<\/p>\n<p><b><i>Dining<\/i><\/b> For yet others, chances are you\u2019d rather just see your fish on a plate, artfully prepared and placed in front of you \u2013 for dinner. Longboat Key will be a dream come true for you. The number of \u201cnot-to-be-missed\u201d dining establishments is so long, you\u2019ll need a few days just to make the rounds.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh4.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCnyyA9KI\/AAAAAAAAATk\/0ZiU9Ln-Aiw\/s1600-h\/100920_3CS06573.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"Longboat Key\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCo-6KzLI\/AAAAAAAAATo\/EKzUs7hMKAI\/100920_3CS0657_thumb.jpg?resize=244%2C164\" alt=\"Longboat Key\" width=\"244\" height=\"164\" align=\"right\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>I\u2019d start at the aforementioned St. Armand&#8217;s Circle and stop in for lunch or dinner at <span class=\"removed_link\" title=\"http:\/\/www.columbiarestaurant.com\/sarasota.asp\">Columbia Restaurant<\/span>. Columbia is Sarasota\u2019s oldest restaurant, celebrating its 50<sup>th<\/sup> anniversary back in 2009. Their sister restaurant in Ybor City is the oldest restaurant in the state and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. From October through May, you\u2019ll get to feast on their famous Stone Crabs, fresh from the Gulf. Try them Carioca style for the authentic Latin spices. Also be sure to try their 1905 salad, named \u201cOne of America\u2019s Top 10 Best Salads.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh4.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCqAgzlbI\/AAAAAAAAATs\/-S-uSCtnj5c\/s1600-h\/100922IMG_43217.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"PattiGeorge's Restaurant\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh4.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCqkXti_I\/AAAAAAAAATw\/bUT-Iv6JlBc\/100922IMG_4321_thumb1.jpg?resize=244%2C184\" alt=\"PattiGeorge's Restaurant\" width=\"244\" height=\"184\" align=\"left\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>Just south of the Sandpiper, you\u2019ll find <a href=\"http:\/\/www.pattigeorges.com\/\">PattiGeorge\u2019s<\/a> on the opposite side of Gulf of Mexico Drive. This rustic restaurant is perched right over the Sarasota Bay with a wrap-around view of the water. The menu is extensive, with more influences than you&#8217;d expect to find in a local establishment. Select from their Italian, Asian and exciting Caribbean and Latin American dishes. Award-winning chef and proprietor, Tommy Klauber brings years of experience from France, Amsterdam and then Aspen, before opening PG\u2019s in Longboat Key. If the weather outside is too hot, or there\u2019s a touch of inclement, this indoor dining spot is where I\u2019d want to spend my evening.<\/p>\n<p>Heading north of the Sandpiper, you\u2019ll need to set your GPS to find <a href=\"http:\/\/www.marvista-restaurant.com\/\">Mar Vista Restaurant<\/a>. Tucked away along the water\u2019s edge, this unpretentious eatery is where the locals go for great food. The building has been there since 1912 and sports a weathered fa\u00e7ade. Don\u2019t let the exterior fool you. Sitting under the twisted trees, <a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh4.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCtmT1z8I\/AAAAAAAAAT0\/LeeTSzsFJT8\/s1600-h\/100920_3CS06947.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"Mar Vista Restaurant\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh4.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCuDjDSZI\/AAAAAAAAAT4\/CXjNGq-A5FE\/100920_3CS0694_thumb1.jpg?resize=244%2C164\" alt=\"Mar Vista Restaurant\" width=\"244\" height=\"164\" align=\"right\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>you\u2019ll delight in this quiet, charming setting for good conversation and wonderful food. With their 14 slip boat dock, a good number of boaters are liable to head for marker 39 and drop in for dinner. Ask if Chef George Quattromani has any daily specials; but if not, you can\u2019t go wrong with the Parmesan Crusted Flounder. Just the right amount of breading, not overdone, and cooked to tender perfection. Also, take advantage of their extensive wine selection.<\/p>\n<p>Further up, along the Gulf coast on Anna Maria Island, you\u2019ll also want to experience <a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCv7V6MoI\/AAAAAAAAAT8\/fX1XDUCIdIU\/s1600-h\/100921IMG_42587.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"BeachHouse Restaurant\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh5.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCwj56DGI\/AAAAAAAAAUA\/IcKNzCPp9tg\/100921IMG_4258_thumb1.jpg?resize=244%2C184\" alt=\"BeachHouse Restaurant\" width=\"244\" height=\"184\" align=\"left\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>The BeachHouse. Located directly on the beach, the property stretches 650 feet along the sand with a huge covered deck that reaches each end of the building. Chef Will Manson doesn\u2019t make it easy on you when it comes to menu selections. There are so many wonderful entrees that it will take a while to narrow down your choices. If you can\u2019t decide, try the Seafood Medley for a blend of crab cakes, shrimp, fish and scallops. Or, why not try what I\u2019ve always wanted to do, make an evening out of just drinks and appetizers? Their conch fritters, calamari, coconut shrimp and wings won\u2019t disappoint.<\/p>\n<p><b><i><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCyOfdRYI\/AAAAAAAAAUE\/r-BJ5tar1UA\/s1600-h\/100921_3CS11563.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"Bamboo garden at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCyi0rb5I\/AAAAAAAAAUI\/3aD4Sq416iI\/100921_3CS1156_thumb.jpg?resize=164%2C244\" alt=\"Bamboo garden at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens\" width=\"164\" height=\"244\" align=\"left\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>A walk in the park<\/i><\/b> With all that great food, you better budget some time for a walk. Two attractions will make that walk seem downright enjoyable. Closest to Longboat Key is the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. For the past 35 years, this garden has literally been growing to perfection. Much of their collection can be found in the greenhouse, including my all-time favorite collection of bonsai trees in their Sho Fu Bonsai exhibit. <a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTCzgsLo_I\/AAAAAAAAAUM\/vSLcu64KVpg\/s1600-h\/100921_3CS11405.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"Sho Fu Bonsai Exhibit at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh3.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTC0kwIZTI\/AAAAAAAAAUQ\/iP9BufylGsU\/100921_3CS1140_thumb5.jpg?resize=161%2C134\" alt=\"Sho Fu Bonsai Exhibit at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens\" width=\"161\" height=\"134\" align=\"right\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>But outside, be prepared to wander amongst an incredible collection of banyan trees (with their roots-gone-wild), the towering bamboo garden, the hibiscus garden and the first A.D.A. accessible canopy walkway in the US. Plan two to three hours at least to appreciate all that Selby Gardens has to offer.<\/p>\n<p>Another canopy walkway is available about an hour away in Myakka River State Park. This walkway truly takes you across the <a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh3.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTC2JBm0jI\/AAAAAAAAAUU\/TXJGaBZalOc\/s1600-h\/100921_3CS1067H5.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"100921_3CS1067H\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh6.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTC2wTyfKI\/AAAAAAAAAUY\/MaPRdkl8ey0\/100921_3CS1067H_thumb2.jpg?resize=108%2C161\" alt=\"100921_3CS1067H\" width=\"108\" height=\"161\" align=\"left\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a>canopy at tree top level. The seventy-foot tall tower gives you a commanding view of the park and its surrounds. Head further into the park on the seven mile scenic drive and jump on one of two large airboats for a cruise in search of alligators, anhinga and sandhill cranes. One of Florida\u2019s oldest state parks, Myakka is great for hiking, biking or kayaking. Rentals are available at one of two gift shops in the park.<\/p>\n<p>Nestled between the deep, warm waters of the Gulf and the shallow, kayak-friendly waters of Sarasota Bay, you\u2019re guaranteed to find a patch of sugary-white beach you\u2019ll want to return to year after year. Whether you choose to walk, sail, cast, wander, climb or dine; you\u2019ll be glad you tried something new around Longboat Key.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh5.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTC4He4K2I\/AAAAAAAAAUc\/5xtJmiKwh_c\/s1600-h\/100922_3CS1580H1.jpg\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"background-image: none; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px; border-width: 0px;\" title=\"100922_3CS1580H\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/lh3.ggpht.com\/_-lDfC-5y5Zk\/TSTC5rFcd1I\/AAAAAAAAAUg\/hlFCoeOp0ik\/100922_3CS1580H_thumb1.jpg?resize=428%2C286\" alt=\"100922_3CS1580H\" width=\"428\" height=\"286\" border=\"0\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><em>Before you go, check these links to help plan your trip:<\/em><\/p>\n<p>http:\/\/gobeyondthebeaches.com<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"removed_link\" title=\"http:\/\/longboatkeychamber.com\/\">http:\/\/longboatkeychamber.com\/<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i>Some other Florida stories you might find interesting:<\/i><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/dbhas.info\/9IerFH\">Florida Beach Walk is picture of success<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/dbhas.info\/cCTRRc\">Circus is spelled S-A-R-A-S-O-T-A <\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/dbhas.info\/aFDdU7\">The ZERO-G weightless flights <\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/dbhas.info\/acf9Ak\">Jungle Island &#8211; Miami,FL <\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"zemanta-pixie\" style=\"margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;\">\u00a0<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-divider stk-block-divider stk-block stk-a78106b\" data-block-id=\"a78106b\"><hr class=\"stk-block-divider__hr\"\/><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-divider stk-block-divider stk-block stk-465ef81\" data-block-id=\"465ef81\"><hr class=\"stk-block-divider__hr\"\/><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>See update 3-19-2024 at https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/2024\/03\/19\/one-key-unlocks-it-all-longboat-key-redux-2024\/ The holidays are over and many snowbirds will be looking to get out of the frigid climes. Everyone expects the people of Cleveland and Buffalo to start heading south, but this winter, we can probably also include a good number of folks from D.C., Virginia and even North Carolina as [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","cos_headline_score":0,"cos_seo_score":0,"cos_headline_text":"One key unlocks it all \u2013 Longboat Key","cos_headline_has_been_analyzed":false,"cos_last_analyzed_headline":[],"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"rop_custom_images_group":[],"rop_custom_messages_group":[],"rop_publish_now":"initial","rop_publish_now_accounts":[],"rop_publish_now_history":[],"rop_publish_now_status":"pending","advgb_blocks_editor_width":"","advgb_blocks_columns_visual_guide":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[608,3],"tags":[284,283,176,3656,132,248,282],"class_list":["post-224","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-latest-news-blog","category-travel","tag-accomodations","tag-boating","tag-dining","tag-fishing","tag-fl","tag-florida","tag-longboat-key"],"featured_image_urls_v2":{"full":"","thumbnail":"","medium":"","medium_large":"","large":"","rpg_gallery_admin_thumb":"","rpg_gallery_thumb":"","1536x1536":"","2048x2048":"","gb-block-post-grid-landscape":"","gb-block-post-grid-square":"","et-pb-post-main-image":"","et-pb-post-main-image-fullwidth":"","et-pb-portfolio-image":"","et-pb-portfolio-module-image":"","et-pb-portfolio-image-single":"","et-pb-gallery-module-image-portrait":"","et-pb-post-main-image-fullwidth-large":"","et-pb-image--responsive--desktop":"","et-pb-image--responsive--tablet":"","et-pb-image--responsive--phone":""},"post_excerpt_stackable_v2":"<p>See update 3-19-2024 at https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/2024\/03\/19\/one-key-unlocks-it-all-longboat-key-redux-2024\/ The holidays are over and many snowbirds will be looking to get out of the frigid climes. Everyone expects the people of Cleveland and Buffalo to start heading south, but this winter, we can probably also include a good number of folks from D.C., Virginia and even North Carolina as well. So where do you head? Florida is the obvious destination for most of those who want to stay stateside, but just where in this huge, wonderful state will you land. A not-so-well known area near Sarasota could be your special destination. Just like a&hellip;<\/p>\n","category_list_v2":"<a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/latest-news-blog\/\" rel=\"category tag\">Blog<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/\" rel=\"category tag\">Travel<\/a>","author_info_v2":{"name":"Doug","url":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/author\/admindoug\/"},"comments_num_v2":"0 comments","author_meta":{"display_name":"Doug","author_link":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/author\/admindoug\/"},"featured_img":null,"featured_image_src":null,"featured_image_src_square":null,"author_info":{"display_name":"Doug","author_link":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/author\/admindoug\/"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","coauthors":[],"tax_additional":{"categories":{"linked":["<a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/latest-news-blog\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Blog<\/a>","<a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Travel<\/a>"],"unlinked":["<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Blog<\/span>","<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Travel<\/span>"]},"tags":{"linked":["<a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">accomodations<\/a>","<a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">boating<\/a>","<a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Dining<\/a>","<a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">fishing<\/a>","<a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">FL<\/a>","<a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Florida<\/a>","<a href=\"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Longboat Key<\/a>"],"unlinked":["<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">accomodations<\/span>","<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">boating<\/span>","<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Dining<\/span>","<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">fishing<\/span>","<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">FL<\/span>","<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Florida<\/span>","<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">Longboat Key<\/span>"]}},"comment_count":0,"relative_dates":{"created":"Posted 15 years ago","modified":"Updated 2 years ago"},"absolute_dates":{"created":"Posted on January 5, 2011","modified":"Updated on March 19, 2024"},"absolute_dates_time":{"created":"Posted on January 5, 2011 3:27 am","modified":"Updated on March 19, 2024 9:41 pm"},"featured_img_caption":"","series_order":"","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p21Ejy-3C","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":106722,"url":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/one-key-unlocks-it-all-longboat-key-redux-2024\/","url_meta":{"origin":224,"position":0},"title":"One key unlocks it all \u2013 Longboat Key &#8211; Redux 2024","author":"Doug","date":"March 19, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"Longboat Key is that vacation spot that isn't overcrowded,, yet loaded with attractions and delicious restaurants.","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Longboat-Key-06.jpg?fit=1200%2C797&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Longboat-Key-06.jpg?fit=1200%2C797&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Longboat-Key-06.jpg?fit=1200%2C797&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Longboat-Key-06.jpg?fit=1200%2C797&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Longboat-Key-06.jpg?fit=1200%2C797&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":6368,"url":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/battle-lake-erie-another-win-us\/","url_meta":{"origin":224,"position":1},"title":"Battle of Lake Erie \u2013 another win for the US","author":"Doug","date":"September 3, 2013","format":false,"excerpt":"History repeated itself yesterday as the American fleet of tall ships once again defeated the British naval squadron in a re-enactment of the 1813 Battle of Lake Erie. Almost 200 years ago, a 28-year old Master Commandant Oliver Hazard Perry took on the British Navy which had never before been\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Travel&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Travel","link":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/travel\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Battle-of-Lake-Erie-0441.jpg?fit=600%2C400&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Battle-of-Lake-Erie-0441.jpg?fit=600%2C400&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Battle-of-Lake-Erie-0441.jpg?fit=600%2C400&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":24932,"url":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/key-lime-pie-panthers-and-outlet-malls-rv-adventures-in-southern-florida\/","url_meta":{"origin":224,"position":2},"title":"Key lime pie, panthers and outlet malls \u2013 RV adventures in southern Florida","author":"Doug","date":"September 30, 2016","format":false,"excerpt":"Got five days?\u00a0 \u201cMaximize your adventure opportunities with an RV.\u201d That was our mantra for the second part of our 2016 RV adventures in Southern Florida. \u00a0Picking up a 37\u2019 Class A Thor Challenger motorhome from Planet RV in Broward County, FL, we were off in search of three of\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Tech, Gadgets &amp; Gear&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Tech, Gadgets &amp; Gear","link":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/tech-gadgets-gear-2\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Sunset at Boyds Key West Campgrounds","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Boyds-Key-West-Campground-5186.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Boyds-Key-West-Campground-5186.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Boyds-Key-West-Campground-5186.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Boyds-Key-West-Campground-5186.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Boyds-Key-West-Campground-5186.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":24889,"url":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/why-an-rv-tops-a-hotel\/","url_meta":{"origin":224,"position":3},"title":"Why an RV tops a hotel","author":"Doug","date":"September 21, 2016","format":false,"excerpt":"Part two in our 2016 RV adventure series This is our first experience driving a large RV, and while I often wondered about the advantages of traveling like this, we are now quickly getting some real life examples.\u00a0 For us, a pair of senior travelers, the idea of RV travel\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Tech, Gadgets &amp; Gear&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Tech, Gadgets &amp; Gear","link":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/tech-gadgets-gear-2\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/160919-7803-2.jpg?fit=1200%2C796&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/160919-7803-2.jpg?fit=1200%2C796&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/160919-7803-2.jpg?fit=1200%2C796&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/160919-7803-2.jpg?fit=1200%2C796&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/160919-7803-2.jpg?fit=1200%2C796&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":24825,"url":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/7-reasons-to-rent-an-rv-in-september\/","url_meta":{"origin":224,"position":4},"title":"7 Reasons to rent an RV in September","author":"Doug","date":"September 20, 2016","format":false,"excerpt":" There are lots of\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Past&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Past","link":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/past\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/7-Reasons.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/7-Reasons.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/7-Reasons.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/7-Reasons.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/7-Reasons.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":12284,"url":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/egeetouch-prevents-locked-suitcase\/","url_meta":{"origin":224,"position":5},"title":"eGeeTouch prevents you from being locked out of your suitcase","author":"Doug","date":"January 5, 2015","format":false,"excerpt":"\u00a0 Ever get to a travel destination only to discover that you lost your luggage key or combination? Oopsie! That can often result in trashing your bag to get it open. With eGeeTouch that will never happen again.\u00a0 The lock is operable with a NFC connection with your phone. But\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Past&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Past","link":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/category\/past\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"eGeeTouch luggage locks","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/150104-7649.jpg?fit=1067%2C800&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/150104-7649.jpg?fit=1067%2C800&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/150104-7649.jpg?fit=1067%2C800&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/150104-7649.jpg?fit=1067%2C800&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/150104-7649.jpg?fit=1067%2C800&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/224","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=224"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/224\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":106748,"href":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/224\/revisions\/106748"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=224"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=224"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dougbardwell.com\/db\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=224"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}