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2-star hotel Check-in 16:00 · Check-out 10:00

Sandpiper Inn

Enjoy a 4.8-rated beachfront stay at Sandpiper Inn, Longboat Key. Bright apartments with kitchens, free Wi-Fi, a pool, private beach, and LGBTQ+ friendly.

5451 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228, United States View on map
9.6/10
Exceptional Based on 111 recent guest reviews
What recent guests emphasize

A tranquil beachfront retreat with attentive, friendly service

Guests consistently highlight the inn’s prime beach location, spotless and well-equipped rooms, and welcoming staff who strike a perfect balance between helpful and unobtrusive. This casual inn offers simple comforts without luxury, ideal for relaxation by the Gulf of Mexico.

Guests often praise

  • Prime beachfront location with quick access to a quiet, private beach and supplied lounge chairs and umbrellas.
  • Clean, cozy rooms featuring well-equipped kitchens, walk-in showers, and effective air conditioning.
  • Friendly, attentive staff and owners who provide prompt assistance without being invasive.
  • Well-maintained grounds and a perfectly sized pool for a refreshing dip.
  • Peaceful, relaxing atmosphere suitable for long stays or quick getaways.

Worth knowing

  • The inn offers simple, affordable accommodations rather than luxury amenities.
  • Laundry facilities are available on-site for a small fee.
  • The property was recently impacted by a hurricane, but restoration and landscaping efforts are underway.
  • Guests appreciate clear communication and straightforward services, such as towel and supply systems without daily room intrusions.
  • Nearby attractions include art museums, aquariums, and public beaches, reachable within a short drive.

Best for

  • Visitors seeking a quiet, casual beachside stay with home-like comforts.
  • Couples and families looking for a cozy, well-equipped retreat on Longboat Key.
  • LGBTQ+ travelers appreciating a welcoming, inclusive environment.
  • Guests who value attentive yet low-key service and an unpretentious setting.
  • Travelers wanting easy outdoor access to Gulf Coast beaches and nearby cultural sites.
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About this property

Welcome to Sandpiper Inn

Situated on Gulf of Mexico Drive in Longboat Key, Sandpiper Inn offers a casual and relaxed beachfront setting. The inn features bright apartments equipped with kitchens and free Wi-Fi, providing a comfortable and practical option for visitors seeking a simple home-away-from-home. Guests have access to a pool and a private beach just steps from the rooms, with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and water accessories available for use.

The property is noted for its clean, well-maintained accommodations and friendly, attentive staff who balance prompt service with guest privacy. While the inn emphasizes comfort over luxury, guest reviews highlight the welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful amenities such as a $2 guest laundry and beach wheelchair access. This balance makes it a favored choice for those valuing convenience, quiet surroundings, and a touch of personal care.

Located about eight miles from St. Armand's Circle's shops and restaurants and 12 miles from Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, the inn is well placed for exploring nearby cultural and natural attractions. Highly rated points of interest close by include The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and Mote Marine Laboratory. Several regional airports are within reasonable driving distance, making it accessible for travelers.

Recognized as LGBTQ+ friendly, the inn appeals to guests looking for a laid-back beach stay in a welcoming environment. Its beachfront location and relaxed style suit visitors who appreciate easygoing comfort and close proximity to nature rather than high-end resort features. Overall, it provides an affordable and uncomplicated spot for beach lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

L
Lyn Mar 28, 2026
10

We found this little gem just driving around with our granddaughter no destination in mind but hoping we could find something on the water. This place is a jewel just what we were looking for the rooms were lovely and very clean. The staff Harold, Chris and Ben were very friendly and very accommodating. We absolutely loved it and will definitely be back again.

AK
Anna Kutulas Mar 21, 2026
10

Couldn't have gotten any better. This place is a unicorn! I HATE staying at the same place twice (actual hotel/motel and geographic location) but the Sandpiper made me rethink that. I can confidently say I would, without question, stay here again. I was OBSESSED with the whole place. The owner or manager perfectly balanced providing prompt service while not being invasive. Basically it was the embodiment of them being available (our drain was really backed up the first day and it ended up just being a catch they had installed needed emptying but the guy immediately tended to it) and giving the guests a wide berth (of you need towels, soap, tp etc... they have a system but there's nobody knocking on your door daily). There's a very affordable ($2) laundry for the guests. The room was clean, had a ton of tv channels (it rained), HOT water and effective a/c. The grounds are very kempt as is the pool. The beach is a thirty second walk, there are towels and chairs and other water accessories for use. If you're considering this property you should finalize your decision. You're not likely to find anything simple and affordable anywhere nearby. This is certainly NOT LUXURY but is simple perfection.

TF
Tracy Fontecchio Mar 18, 2026
10

We stayed for our belated anniversary celebration weekend August 20-23. We had a great time! This is my new home away from home now! The rooms are perfect and cozy, nothing fancy, but they are very transparent on their website. I actually LOVE how they have the chairs and umbrellas set up so all you do is go out, find a chair, crank open the umbrella and enjoy! And the wheelchair mat going out to the dune is awesome! I wish more resorts would do this! We spent our time going back and forth between the pool and beach. We really enjoyed the pool, it is the perfect size for a quick dip. The grounds are maintained beautifully as well! Ben was a pleasure to talk with and he made our weekend just that much better. I cannot wait to return ! Thank you for a fantastic weekend !

SDK
Sonja De Keyser Mar 15, 2026
10

We love this place so much. The rooms are very clean and well equiped. You stay rught on the beach were it's always quiet. The owner is very friendly and helpfull. Unfortunately we had to leave two days earlier because of the hurricane Helene. We hope they don't have to much damage so they can reopen soon. We'll certainly go back.

MP
Matthew Park Feb 20, 2026
10

I stayed at the Sandpiper Inn on Longboat Key, Florida for just one night on a last-minute trip, and I can honestly say they treated us like we were long-term guests. The location is unbeatable—step out your door, turn right, and within a minute you’re on the beach. The inn provides lounge chairs and umbrellas, which made it so easy to just relax and enjoy the ocean. The owners are some of the sweetest people you’ll ever meet, and it’s clear that their only goal is to make sure their guests are happy and comfortable. The room itself was charming, decorated with adorable beach-inspired touches that gave it a warm, homey feel. If you’re visiting Longboat Key and need a place to stay, I can’t recommend the Sandpiper Inn enough. Whether it’s for one night or an extended getaway, you’ll be treated with care and leave with a smile.

WD
Wayne Deutscher Feb 19, 2026
10

Great little place in heaven. Right on the beach. Good for long stays.

NN
Nancy Nasco-Socorro Feb 13, 2026
10

We love the Sandpiper Inn and Longboat Key. This place is perfect. Location and beach. Very quiet and peaceful but above all the rooms are very clean and the staff is amazing. The owners Chris and her husband are so sweet and wonderful. And also Ben. He was so kind and helpful. I highly recommend this place to everyone. Can't wait to be back !

TB
Teri Bauer Feb 11, 2026
10

I almost want to keep this wonderful small intimate beach hotel all to myself. Before and after hurricanes. We were here. They just reopened. The Hawaiian like landscaping took a hit and it always takes awhile to grow back. The rooms are super clean and have everything you'd want from home-fully equipped kitchen, even a beach umbrella and a blanket on the sofa! Loved having a walk in shower instead of a tub. Thanks Chris and Harold-the best hhoteliers. PS we had beach chairs(provided) on the powder sand beach and about 5 other people on the private beach!

JM
Jim McArdle Feb 11, 2026
10

Harold and Chris are the best. They have worked hard to restore this local treasure back after the hurricane and flood on LongBoat key. The rooms are all updated and still has the friendly staff and at home feel. The landscaping is very nice! The prices are amazing for this ocean dreamland. The views are the best! I am going to try to return years after years. I stay a week or more each time. These were the pictures from a few years ago and im sure will return to this and even better. I am staying from the 1 to the 8th and already having a great time!

ML
Michelle Luff Feb 10, 2026
10

This place was like stepping back into time where guests are valued! The owners are amazing. The room was clean and well maintained. The view from the room was to die for. The beach was not crowded at all. Was the perfect location for a quick romantic getaway. Can’t wait for our next visit here!

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find Sandpiper Inn

Longboat Key, Florida, USA

Set on Gulf of Mexico Drive, this relaxed, beachfront inn is 8 miles from the shops and restaurants of St. Armand's Circle, and 12 miles from the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.

  • Tampa International Airport 1 hr 16 Car
  • Sarasota Bradenton International Airport 33 min Car
  • St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport 1 hr 9 Car
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in Florida. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art 9,585 reviews

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States

4.8 · Art Museum
Coquina Beach 6,365 reviews

Coquina Beach

Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217, United States

4.8 · Beach
Mote Marine Laboratory 9,794 reviews

Mote Marine Laboratory

1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34236, United States

4.7 · Research Institute
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