Nestled along the sugary Florida coastline of Longboat Key is a Florida beach resort. This family-friendly beach resort pairs the unbelievable views of sunsets, sunrises, sand and surf with all the amenities of a hotel double the price. This affordable and family-friendly beach resort – Casa Del Mar, will be an annual trip for years to come.
We love the white sandy beaches of the Florida coastline on Longboat Key Beach. This is exactly why I booked it for my family’s latest Florida beach vacation. It’s everything I’ve been searching for – and more! This home away from home pairs the incredible, unbelievable views of sunsets, sunrises, sand and surf with all the amenities of a hotel double the price.
This resort is right in the middle of the vacation spectrum – tranquil enough for those vacationers seeking relaxation, but close enough to fun and excitement – both on-site and nearby – to satisfy every adventurer in the family. Yes, this resort even entertains the hard-to-please kids!
One of the most attractive features of this quaint Florida beachfront rental is its location. We didn’t have to worry about walking miles to find the beach. Casa Del Mar is literally, steps away from the sand and beach. It’s convenient to travel to, as well.
Major airports, such as Tampa International and Sarasota-Bradenton International, are less than an hour away. Yet, it’s far enough removed so that it feels untouched by the busyness of the nearby metropolitan areas.
One Of The Best Florida Beach Resorts
I almost didn’t believe it when I read it, but take it from regular guest Ron Eydenberg, Casa Del Mar “is a slice of paradise.” Eydenberg and his children (who are now grown and bring their families to vacation here) enjoy the Florida resort year-after-year – and I can see why they are drawn back. Here are the many reasons why the Eydenbergs love the resort.
The professionalism and attention to detail from the staff parallels the well-manicured grounds. From the moment we stepped foot onto the property, we felt transported us to a tropical Florida paradise.
The rental suite, meticulously maintained with the most modern appliances and touches, is a private oasis within this paradise laid out across more than 6 acres.
Boasting views of the beachfront, resort pool or courtyard, all 102 units at this Florida beach resort are equipped with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, and a living and dining area. A family of six could vacation comfortably in one rental.
Room Amenities & Furnishings. A Perfect Touch
The in-room amenities are boundless. The furnishings – both in the living area and bedrooms – were comfortable and resemble the coastal aesthetics of the area. Stay connected to the outside world through the multiple TVs with free cable and wireless internet.
A screened patio offered a wonderful place to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner alfresco while taking in the views of the beach that was our own private backyard.
The subtle sounds of the ocean waves could be heard from our suite. Guest Roz H. wrote, “Some units have ocean views that we were certain if you opened the windows at night, you could be lulled to sleep with an ocean lullaby.”
An incredibly generous starter kit was included in the rental. Stocked full of toiletries, towels, detergent and other supplies, the kit came in handy, as we forgot to pack a few items.
A washer and dryer are available in the room, so you don’t have to worry about bringing a full suitcase. Exchange your linens and towels at the laundry room or office, depending on the day of the week.
The resort even employs a cleaning company to freshen up your private condo, and you can arrange for extra services during your stay.
Resort Grounds And Amazing View
The many amenities of this Florida beach resort spill over to the features available right on the property. If you like to sit back, relax and lounge around on your vacation like I do, the largest heated pool on Longboat Key, offering uninterrupted views of the ocean, will be your best friend. Take up residence on one of the lounge chairs or tiki huts that are on deck to soak up the sun and views.
I spent a long day relaxing by the pool and sunbathing. Then I topped off the night with a freshly grilled dinner for the family. We cooked right on one of the many available BBQ grills at the resort. I noticed many other families taking advantage of this feature. So we made a few friends as it seems to be a popular one at the resort. And whether it’s the fresh catch of the day or store-bought, a “home-cooked” meal is the perfect way to end the day and bring the family together.
Perfect Location. Close To Everything
A Publix supermarket, located minutes from the resort, makes it easy to stock up on supplies to fuel your vacation. But, let’s face it, you’re taking a break not only from work but from adulting duties, including cooking for the whole family.
Let the many award-winning restaurants in the area take care of that for you. This guide will help you and your family find the right restaurant.
After enjoying the sunrise of the next morning, I corralled the family into a rousing match of tennis. The courts are located right on the resort. We kept it light with a simple match. But there are so many ways you can mix up the traditional game, including pickleball, line tag, soccer tennis, dodgeball, first to 100 and many more. Tennis isn’t so boring when you play these games.
If a fast-paced, active game is more your speed, hit the basketball court, also conveniently located on the property.
You don’t have to be a professional to enjoy a game of basketball, a match of H.O.R.S.E. or Around the World.
Completing the running list of incredible benefits of staying at this Florida resort, the pièce de résistance – the beach. The pristine white sand is unadulterated by rocks or trash, which you might find at other beaches. But not Longboat Key.
This is the type of beach pictured on postcards that make your loved ones at home jealous. One reviewer on TripAdvisor wrote, “The beach is just the best beach I have ever been to! So clean that in water up to your neck, you can see all the way to the bottom.”
White Sandy Beach Is Only The Beginning
We enjoyed soaking in the crystal clear waters. Snorkeling and observing the marine life that calls the Gulf of Mexico home. Finally, searching for shells on the white sandy beach. After cooling off in the ocean, I arranged for a complimentary lounge chair. The sun was beautiful and bright so I rented and an umbrella. This was rented at the resort and set up by their friendly attendants. While the kids built sand castles and buried their father in the sand.
Sunset Cruise by https://www.catherinesfloridacharters.com/
By evening, we found ourselves on a private sunset cruise. We enjoyed finger foods and sipped champagne as the sun melted into the horizon. The following day, we opted for a little more action on the water. We rented a boat through Cannons Marina to catch some fresh Florida fish. Follow this guide for helpful fishing tips in Sarasota Bay that will yield the best catch.
There are a plethora of water activities, from adrenaline-pumping to relaxing, just minutes away from the resort. Book a dolphin or sightseeing cruise to enjoy views of Sarasota Bay in a tranquil setting. Go scuba diving to explore what lies under the waves. Windsurfing, jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding – the possibilities are endless. This in-depth beach lovers guide was so helpful when narrowing down all the fun in the sun that can be had on Longboat Key Beach.
There Is Something For Everyone
With so much to entertain, it was hard to branch out and explore the many sights in the area. If you can peel yourself away from the beckoning calls of the sand and surf, you won’t regret it. Furthermore, Longboat Key and the Sarasota area are teeming with things to do for the family. Are you’re unsure of what to do? The incredibly helpful office staff can direct you to all the activities in the area that will appeal most to your family.
Nature-lovers will appreciate the numerous walking trails on Longboat Key Beach and in the surrounding Sarasota area. My family and I started the next morning appreciating the coastal views served up along the Longboat Key Trail.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
Devoting the day to appreciating Florida’s nature, we traveled to the nearby Marie Selby Botanical Gardens overlooking Sarasota Bay.
The Conservatory immersed us in a tropical rainforest of vibrant color and lush greenery. The fragrances in the Epiphyte Garden tickled our senses.
Don’t miss exploring the several other themed gardens, such as the Bamboo Garden and the Butterfly Garden. The Botanical Gardens host exhibits and other events throughout the year, too.
We dived into the world of Florida’s aquatic life at the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. The kids went wild over the two touch tanks and Shark Encounter exhibit.
We stayed for hours, watching the resident fish and mammals interacting in their enclosures. We observed the marine biologists working diligently on their research in the functioning lab on-site.
St. Armands Circle Is A Must See
Topping off the day, we headed to St. Armand’s Circle to browse the area that is known for its world-class dining and shopping.
The Circle boasts a selection of more than 130 boutiques and restaurants, so you’re bound to find some souvenir and dish to tickle your fancy.
St Armands Circle Sarasota
Of course, a visit to the Circle would not be complete without a trip to The Ringling, or The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art. The area has a special connection to John Ringling – the circus magnate purchased St. Armand’s Key in 1917 and developed it for commercial and residential purposes.
Additionally, the Ringling is home to gardens, and several museums dedicated to art and the circus. You can even explore John and Mable Ringling’s 56-room mansion, Ca’d’Zan, on-site.
We really enjoyed exploring this piece of historic Sarasota, especially stepping back in time to the Roaring Twenties going through the Ringlings’ impressive homestead.
Award Winning Family Vacation Spot
Casa Del Mar is such a popular Florida beach resort, that it has garnered attention from the world-renowned magazine Condé Nast Traveler, landing on its Gold List as one of the best places to stay in the world.
Longboat Key Beach itself is in the top ten island destinations in the United States by the same publication. It called out the beach as a great escape from the distractions of the more frequented beaches.
This beachfront resort provides a five-star hotel experience at half the cost. Has the national recognition or my family’s experience haven’t made you fall in love with this well-kept secret? If not, just read all the glowing reviews online, like this one from Mike J.:
“Would you want to rent a condo on the beach with white sands and gentle waves? This is the place to go. The relaxing and friendly atmosphere. My family has visited for a long time now and love this place.”
Or this one from John Lafata:
“This place exceeded our expectations. It was so beautiful and peaceful. The unit was immaculate and besides groceries, everything we needed was provided.”
So, what are you waiting for? Your vacation is calling.
