Local News and Real Estate on Manasota Key
Manasota Key is neither posh nor sophisticated. So, what is Manasota Key? It is an enchanting barrier island off the coast of Englewood. That statement doesn’t mean anything but it was at least an easy answer.
Let us try to do a better job: The Key is known for its laid back, “Old Florida” , atmosphere and you will really like it once you see it. By you following the main road on the island you will see what we mean. Compared to Casey Key or Siesta Key this is a low- key affair. There are multi million home on the island but you may never see them. No ritzy entrances; everything is hidden behind a lush landscaping.
If you are particularly looking for that type of “Old Florida Charm” – there are not many places left where you can find them. However, Manasota Key is one you should consider. But don’t expect to get something for “nothing”‘. When you buy real estate on an island, where land is scarce, you will pay accordingly to the scarcity.
Manasota Key – northern and central part
The northern and central parts of the island, located in Sarasota County, are exclusively residential. There is no commercial activity permitted. The southern part of the island, which is already in Charlotte County, has a little commercial activity. A few low-rise condos, apartments, restaurants, bars and small shops are lined up along the beach. However, none of it really distracts from the beauty of the island. The activity appears to be in total harmony with the rest of the island.
There is only one narrow two lane road that snakes its way along the Key past island homes. Some of them are on one-acre lots, many of which have their back yard on the bay and their front yard 
on the Gulf. In certain areas the island is only a couple hundred feet wide. Most of the beautiful homes are tucked behind lush tropical foliage, barely visible.
Beaches and Activities on Manasota Key
The southern tip of Manasota Key is occupied by Stump Pass Beach State Park. There you can launch your kayaks or canoes or take a sun bath on a quiet beach.
Although Manasota Key is a popular tourist destination, residents are still able to enjoy an undisturbed way of life. As a result, the island is not nearly as touristy as its cousins, Siesta Key or Anna Maria Island, further north.
Because there is a total of four beaches on Manasota Key, which includes Englewood Beach, Stump Pass Beach, Blind Pass Beach and Manasota Beach, the crowd is spread pretty evenly. Each of these beaches has something special to offer: fishing, boating, diving, swimming, jet skiing, para-sailing, shelling, snorkeling, canoeing, kayaking, sunning, picnicking, and volleyball playing are some of the favorite activities on those beaches and the list gets longer every year. But it depends where you are. Most activity you will find on Englewood Beach.
Be aware the Blind Pass Beach (middle beach) has an ongoing problem with the sewage system. We liked that beach a lot, but for whatever reason they can’t fix the problem. Therefore, no restrooms as of June 2016. Sad!
Englewood Beach – what a Transformation
Englewood Beach went through an amazing transformation. It was not like that in the past, it used to be very rudimentary. When we moved to Englewood in 1995 the only activity was getting a sun burn and swimming in the Gulf of Mexico. We were happy because we didn’t know better. There were not even restrooms during that time.
Of all the beaches, Englewood Beach belongs to the most popular among Florida’s visitors (besides the beaches of Siesta Key, of course, which is the #2). The visitors can now enjoy completely remodeled boardwalks, restrooms, showers and covered barbecue spaces. The only disadvantage is that parking is not free anymore. One hour of sunburn on the beach will cost you $.75.
Compared to the cost of the ointment you need to treat your sunburn that is nothing, but it can add up.
If you spend weeks or months in Englewood you may want to buy a parking pass, which gives you access to all of Charlotte County beaches and boat launches, and saves you some beer money.
Real Estate for sale on Manasota Key
There are still homes and lots for sale on Manasota Key, however, expect the prices to be a lot higher compared to homes for sale on the mainland. Properties on barrier islands are always special, and when prime locations are scarce the prices are higher. Very few lots are left on the island and they come with a “prime” price. Look for yourself or call us. We can look for you.
Start Your Search for a Home on the Barrier Island Here
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