The Dock on the Bay

The Dock on the Bay Longboat Key: A Comprehensive Guide

Nestled on Longboat Key off the coast of Sarasota, Florida, Dock on the Bay is an intimate, private resort that emphasizes harmony with the surrounding natural environment. This captivating oasis boasts lush native vegetation and picturesque waterfront views of the mangrove-lined Buttonwood Harbor. Longboat Key, itself a stunning barrier island, offers pristine beaches and a serene atmosphere that attracts visitors looking for a tropical retreat.

Dock on the Bay features 19 townhomes with beautiful waterfront views and two-bedroom floor plans that range in size from 1,207 to 1,679 square feet. This quiet community, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, is the perfect destination for those seaching for tranquility and relaxation. Being just offshore from Sarasota, residents and guests of Dock on the Bay also have convenient access to the attractions of this vibrant city on Florida's Central West Coast, making it an ideal location for a peaceful getaway.

Location and Overview

Sarasota Area

The Dock on the Bay is situated in the beautiful Longboat Key, Florida, an island surrounded by the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the peaceful Sarasota Bay. This marina is perfect for boaters who want easy access to both the Gulf and the bay, as it is located at 3440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228.

Longboat Key is part of the Sarasota area, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and excellent dining options. The Dock on the Bay's convenient location makes it easy to explore Sarasota's attractions, such as the Ringling Museum of Art, St. Armands Circle, and the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

Buttonwood Harbor

Located near Buttonwood Harbor, The Dock on the Bay offers boaters tranquility and easy access to this charming community. The marina's coordinates are N 27° 22.667' / W 082° 37.967', making it a desirable stop for those navigating the Florida coastline.

The facility includes various amenities for boaters, such as slips, moorings, and on-site management to ensure a comfortable and secure stay. For more information or to contact the marina directly, you can reach them at (941) 383-3716.

Dining Experiences

Seafood Options

One of the primary attractions of The Dock on the Bay in Longboat Key is the incredible seafood offerings. With the restaurant's close proximity to the water, diners can enjoy some of the freshest seafood available. The Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is a notable option, which serves a wide selection of seafood dishes, including crowd favorites like seared scallops, crab cakes, and clam chowder.

Another great option for a seafood dining experience is the Waterfront Restaurant - Anna Maria. This establishment offers not only exceptional seafood but also panoramic views of the bay. Its dockside patio provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal.

Other Food Choices

While seafood is the star at many restaurants on Longboat Key, there are plenty of other food choices available for those who prefer a different culinary experience. The Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant is a well-loved establishment, located right on the water, offering a mix of land and sea favorites. With 14 boat slips on the dock, it's a fun way to arrive and enjoy diverse menu options.

At The Dock on the Bay, one can find steakhouses, Italian restaurants, and everything in between. No matter your food preferences, the variety of establishments catering to all tastes ensures everyone has a great dining experience.

The Surrounding Area

The Dock on the Bay is situated on Longboat Key, a beautiful strip of land between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay. This prime location offers visitors an ideal setting to enjoy various outdoor activities and attractions in the area.

For those who enjoy water sports, Sarasota Bay provides an excellent opportunity for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. The calm waters and scenic views make it a popular destination for recreational boating. Furthermore, Longboat Key is also near the Gulf of Mexico, offering easy access to the open sea for sailing adventures and deep-sea fishing.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of wildlife in the area, including bird watching, sea turtle nesting, and dolphin sightings. Nearby nature preserves, such as Joan M. Durante Park, offer peaceful hiking trails and opportunities for picnicking.

For those searching for a relaxing day at the beach, the powdery white sands of Longboat Key's shoreline do not disappoint. The warm Gulf waters invite visitors to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a refreshing margarita. Spend the day taking in the magnificent sunsets and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this paradise.

In terms of dining and entertainment options, the surrounding area features several exquisite restaurants that serve, local and international cuisine to satisfy any palate. Delectable seafood can be found at these establishments, with many of them sourcing their catches directly from local fishermen for a truly authentic experience.

Lastly, the nearby Lido Key and St. Armand's Circle offer a more bustling atmosphere, with several shopping, dining, and entertainment options available for those seeking a lively night out or a day of shopping excursions.

So whether it's tranquility and relaxation or an exciting adventure that you seek while staying at The Dock on the Bay, the surrounding area of Longboat Key caters to a wide variety of interests and preferences.

Services and Amenities

The Dock on the Bay is a serene marina located on Longboat Key, Florida, offering a variety of services and amenities for boaters and visitors alike. The marina aims to provide a tranquil and harmonious environment, surrounded by lush native vegetation and picturesque views of the mangrove-lined Buttonwood Harbor.

One of the main features at The Dock on the Bay is its full-service marina with a capacity for 23 slips. The marina can accommodate boats with up to 7 ft depth, making it a suitable stopover for boaters exploring the surrounding waters of the Gulf of Mexico or Sarasota Bay. To ensure the convenience of docking, the marina provides daily services, including water, electricity, and trash disposal. For any anticipated repairs, a medical facility is within a 5-mile radius of the marina to cater to your needs ¹.

Alongside its docking facilities, The Dock on the Bay offers various recreational amenities for visitors to enjoy. These include a heated swimming pool, a tennis court, and a barbecue area – perfect for socializing with fellow boaters and guests. Additionally, the marina is situated within easy access to some of Longboat Key's most popular attractions, such as pristine beaches and fine dining establishments ².

In summary, The Dock on the Bay provides visitors with essential services and amenities in a stunning, natural setting. Whether you're just passing through or planning a longer stay, the marina ensures a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.

Reservations and Planning

If you are planning a visit to The Dock on the Bay in Longboat Key, it's essential to make reservations ahead of time to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. This intimate private resort offers a serene atmosphere, lush native vegetation, and a gorgeous view of mangrove-lined Buttonwood Harbor.

To make a reservation, you can reach out to them via phone at (941) 306-1118 or send an email to [email protected]. While their official website does not have an online booking feature, contacting them directly will allow you to inquire about availability and any specific requirements you may have.

Before making your reservation, consider the following:

The resort's location
Types of accommodation available
On-site amenities
Nearby attractions and activities

The Dock on the Bay resort is situated on Longboat Key, just offshore from Sarasota on the Central West Coast of Florida. It's important to determine whether this location would suit your vacation preferences and travel plans before making a reservation.

In terms of accommodations, The Dock on the Bay offers a selection of cozy units to choose from. Each unit comes with different features and amenities, so you'll want to inquire about these during your reservation process.

The resort also has a small marina with a 7-ft depth, which could be a deciding factor in your planning process especially if you plan to arrive by water or bring your own boat.

In addition, the Longboat Key area offers a variety of attractions and activities such as shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. When making your reservation, it might be helpful to ask the staff for recommendations on nearby attractions to make the most out of your stay.

Taking these factors into account and making a reservation in advance will help ensure a pleasant and stress-free vacation at The Dock on the Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the amenities at The Dock on the Bay?

The Dock on the Bay is a small condominium community in Longboat Key, Florida. This beautiful community offers waterfront views and provides access to amenities such as a clubhouse, heated swimming pool, tennis court, boat docks, and a fishing pier.

How can I get to The Dock on the Bay?

The Dock on the Bay is located at 3440 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228. The marina can be accessed by Sarasota Bay, 2.0 miles southwest of MM 80.5. The coordinates for the marina are N 27° 22.667' / W 082° 37.967'.

Are there any restaurants near The Dock on the Bay?

While specific restaurants are not mentioned in the search results, Longboat Key is known for its variety of dining options. You can explore nearby restaurants and make reservations to fully enjoy your experience while staying at Dock on the Bay.

What are the rental rates of The Dock on the Bay?

Rental rates for The Dock on the Bay were not found in the provided search results. For the most up-to-date information on rental rates and availability, it is recommended to contact the marina directly via phone or email.

Is The Dock on the Bay pet-friendly?

Information related to pet policy at The Dock on the Bay was not found in the search results. If you plan to bring a pet with you, it is advised to contact the marina directly to inquire about their pet policy.

What activities can I enjoy near The Dock on the Bay?

Longboat Key has various recreational activities available for visitors. While specific activities near The Dock on the Bay were not mentioned, it is likely that you can enjoy water sports, boating, fishing, and beach activities in the area. Explore the surrounding region to take advantage of all that Longboat Key and Sarasota, Florida have to offer.

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