If you’ve been dreaming of waterfront living on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Country Club Shores in Longboat Key should be at the top of your list. With deep-water canals, deeded beach access, and a front-row seat to both Sarasota Bay and championship golf, this coveted neighborhood blends luxury and laid-back island living like nowhere else.
Here’s what makes Country Club Shores one of Longboat Key’s most desirable single-family home communities.
A Waterfront Community Built for Boaters
Originally developed in the 1960s by the renowned Arvida Realty Company, Country Club Shores was designed around a true boating lifestyle. Nearly every one of its 19 streets is situated on a canal that leads directly to Sarasota Bay — a dream for boat owners looking for easy access to open water.
Street names like Putter Lane, Schooner Lane, Yardarm, and Bowspirit reflect the neighborhood’s nautical and golf-inspired roots. Whether you're docking your boat after a day at sea or heading to the Longboat Key Club for a round of golf, everything is within reach.
A Variety of Homes — From Classic to Contemporary
The real estate in Country Club Shores offers something for every taste:
- Old Florida ranch-style homes full of charm and potential
- Newly built modern estates with open floor plans and luxury finishes
- Renovated waterfront gems that combine timeless style with modern functionality
Prices generally start around $1.7 million, with bayfront properties and new construction homes reaching up to $9 million or more. Whether you’re seeking a full-time residence, a vacation home, or an investment property, the range of options here is impressive.
Deeded Beach Access Just Across the Street
In addition to boating access, residents of Country Club Shores enjoy private deeded beach access via an HOA-maintained walkway directly across Gulf of Mexico Drive. That means a morning swim or a sunset stroll on the sand is always just steps away — no need to fight for parking or beach access during the high season.
Neighbor to the Longboat Key Club
Just across the street, the Longboat Key Club (membership required) offers 45 holes of championship golf, a luxurious spa, tennis, marina access, and multiple dining options. For many homeowners, this proximity to resort-style amenities is a major benefit — it’s like living in a private club without being required to join one.
Pet-Friendly and Investor-Friendly
Country Club Shores is one of the more pet-friendly communities on Longboat Key, with no restrictions on large breeds. If you’re planning to rent out your home part-time, you’ll appreciate that the neighborhood allows monthly rentals up to 12 times per year — making it a flexible option for seasonal owners or investors.
Seasonal rental rates typically range from $3,500 to over $15,000/month, depending on home size, waterfront access, and the time of year.
Low Fees, High Value
There are no monthly HOA fees in Country Club Shores. Instead, there’s a modest annual fee of approximately $250, which covers maintenance of the deeded beach access and common areas. It’s a low-overhead option for those who want community benefits without the high costs often associated with private neighborhoods.
Close to Everything You Love About Sarasota
Living in Country Club Shores means you’re close to all the highlights of the area:
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
St. Armands Circle for fine dining and boutique shopping
Downtown Sarasota, just a short drive away, for arts, culture, and entertainment
Whether you're heading out for a paddle, a show, or a sunset dinner, you're never far from what you love.
Final Thoughts: Why Country Club Shores?
If you're looking for Longboat Key waterfront homes for sale, Country Club Shores checks all the boxes:
- Deep water canals for boating
- Walkable beach access
- Golf and resort amenities just across the street
- Flexible rental rules
- Diverse housing options
It’s one of the few neighborhoods on Longboat Key that offers a true coastal lifestyle with the practicality of single-family home living.
Want to Explore Homes in Country Club Shores?
I'm Gina Ursini with Brista Realty, and I specialize in helping buyers find their perfect place on Longboat Key — whether you're relocating, investing, or simply dreaming of the good life by the water. If you’d like to tour available homes or learn more about life in Country Club Shores, I’d love to help.
