This Secluded Florida Barrier Island is Home to a Literary Legend (& You’ve Never Heard of It)
With no traffic lights or high rises and a population of just over 400, this secluded key is one of the most private barrier islands in Florida.
Tucked away on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Casey Key is often touted as Sarasota’s hidden gem. This small, exclusive barrier island near Nokomis is known for its unspoiled beaches, scenic waterfront mansions, and quiet, laid-back atmosphere.
Unlike most Florida beach destinations, Casey Key has no high-rise hotels, chain restaurants, or bustling boardwalks—just miles of pristine shoreline and Old Florida charm.
If solitude and inspiration is what you’re seeking, Casey Key is the perfect retreat. Even best-selling author Stephen King has a home here and considers it the ideal place to write and unwind.
Though I grew up in Southwest Florida and thought I was pretty familiar with the Sarasota area, I only recently discovered Casey Key. And I’m embarrassed to admit that it was quite by accident.
An accidental discovery…
After moving back to Florida in 2021, my husband and I were forced to find somewhere else to stay when our Punta Gorda home became unlivable in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian in 2022.
We needed somewhere nearby, where we could be close enough to check on our home. But we also needed a mental escape from hurricane clean-up.
Casey Key fit the bill on both counts.
It turned out to be the perfect spot for tranquil empty beaches, brilliant sunsets, and early morning beach walks. Not to mention terrific restaurants within walking distance from our hotel. We fell in love with this quiet barrier island and we’ve been back several times since.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle). All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
Sadly, while we discovered Casey Key because of a hurricane, the island is currently enduring its own hurricane recovery after the double whammy of Hurricanes Helene and Milton last fall. But the hotels and restaurants have reopened and the beaches are as lovely as ever.
Unfortunately, the popular North Jetty area at the southern tip of Casey Key (a popular spot for fishing and kayaking) was severely damaged by the storms and remains closed.
But everything else on Casey Key is back in business and welcoming visitors again.
The best time to visit Casey Key is during the cooler months from November to April when the weather is pleasant, and the wildlife is more active. But if you want it all to yourself, visit during the summer months of May to October.
Read More: 5 Florida Travel Mistakes 1st Time Visitors Make (& How to Avoid Them!) 🦩☀️
How to Get to Casey Key
Located near the southern end of Sarasota County, Casey Key is just a 15-mile drive from downtown Sarasota. It’s easily accessible by car via two bridges, one at the northern end and the other at the southern end.
Casey Key’s secluded nature is part of its appeal, but it’s still easy to reach from major cities in Florida:
By Air: The nearest airport is Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), about 30 minutes away. Tampa International Airport (TPA) is another option, about 1.5 hours north. Tiny Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) is another option, it’s about 45 minutes away but flight options are more limited here.
By Car: From Sarasota, take US-41 South to Albee Road, then cross the Casey Key Drawbridge to reach the island. If you’re coming from Tampa or Orlando, take I-75 South, exit at Nokomis, and follow the same route.
Bridge Access: There are two bridges that provide access to Casey Key across the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway from the mainland. Built in the 1960’s, the south bridge (the Albee Road Drawbridge) connects to Nokomis and is the easiest and most popular route.
But there is also the historic Blackburn Point Swinging Bridge on the North end connecting to Osprey. This one-lane swinging bridge was built in 1926 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Once you’re on Casey Key, you’ll quickly notice something unique: there are no traffic lights, no shopping centers, and no large developments like condo buildings. The island is only eight miles long and can be explored entirely by car, bike, or on foot.
Where to Stay on Casey Key
There are no large resorts on Casey Key, just a few small boutique hotels and vacation rentals. To me, that just adds to the island’s authentic old-Florida feel. If you’re looking for a bigger hotel with more amenities, there are plenty of options in nearby Sarasota or Venice.
But I highly recommend embracing Casey Key’s tranquil charm by staying on the island. Hotels are located on either the bay side or the Gulf side of Casey Key Road (the island’s main road). Here are the best options:
A Beach Retreat on Casey Key – This is where we stay when we visit and it’s the only hotel with rooms on both the bay side and the Gulf side. Rooms on the bay side have easy access to the heated, freshwater pool. While rooms on the ocean side enjoy 180 feet of prime beachfront and gorgeous sunset views.
My favorite room here is the one-bedroom suite upstairs on the ocean side. It has huge picture windows with incredible views of the Gulf.
Escape Casey Key – This cozy hotel on the bay side of Casey Key Road offers everything from affordable studio rooms to spacious 2-bedroom villas. Rooms are updated and modern and there’s also a small pool. The only downside is they don’t offer rooms with ocean views, though a few do have balconies with a pool view.
Casey Key Resort (Beachside) – Casey Key Resorts includes two properties, one on the mainland and one directly on Casey Key. The Beachside property features 11 upscale units with retro beach decor and direct beach access.
Suntan Terrace – Located directly on Nokomis beach, rooms here range from small studios to spacious 1-bedroom apartments with sea views. There’s also a sunny outdoor pool and a private beach area.
Where to Eat
You won’t find any restaurants directly on Casey Key, just the Shark Tooth Beach Concession Stand directly across from Nokomis Public Beach.
Luckily, there are several excellent waterfront dining spots just a short walk across the small bridge to Nokomis. Here are a few of my favorites:
Pelican Alley – If you’re staying on the south end of Casey Key, this popular waterfront restaurant is just a short stroll across the bridge. Known for their delicious made from scratch seafood chowder and fascinating history (it involves ghosts!), this is my favorite place to eat when we visit Casey Key. They also have live music every Friday night.
Pop’s Sunset Grill – Just a block down the street from Pelican Alley, Pop’s is a no-brainer for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It’s one of those spots that immediately earns a place on your “must-visit” list after your first experience. The ribs are to die for, tender and flavorful, and the seafood boil is some of the best I’ve tasted.
Casey Key Fish House – Located on the north end (Blackburn Point end) of Casey Key, this casual, waterfront seafood spot is a favorite among tourists and locals alike. Known for its grouper sandwiches and tiki bar with live music, it’s just a short walk from the beach.
Sweet Melissa’s Ice Cream – Cool off after a day at the beach with a sweet treat from this ice cream shop that’s a local favorite.
Things to Do
While Casey Key is all about relaxation and enjoying nature, there’s plenty to explore. Most activities in Casey Key are outdoor-related. Here are some top things to do in the area:
1. Relax on the Quiet Beaches
Casey Key’s miles and miles of uninterrupted beaches are some of the most secluded in Florida. With no public parking or commercial development, these pristine shores are peaceful and perfect for long walks, shelling, and sunbathing.
The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles that nest on the beaches from May to October. Birdwatching is also popular and you’ll spot plenty of osprey, pelicans, and other coastal birds.
2. Drive the Scenic Casey Key Road
One of Florida’s most beautiful coastal drives, this winding road offers views of multi-million dollar waterfront mansions (including Stephen King’s home), lush tropical landscapes, and glimpses of the Gulf.
3. Visit Nokomis Beach
Located just across the Albee Road bridge, Nokomis Beach is Sarasota’s oldest public beach. It’s the only public beach access point on Casey Key so if you’re not staying on the island, this is where you’ll need to park to visit.
In addition to free parking, you’ll also find restrooms and lifeguards on this part of the beach. The historic Nokomis Beach Plaza was built in the 1950’s and includes boardwalks and picnic shelters.
Nokomis Beach is a great spot for swimming in calm waters and relaxing on the white sands. On Wednesday and Saturday evenings, don’t miss the famous Nokomis Drum Circle—a lively local tradition that starts about an hour before sunset.
4. Kayak or Paddleboard the Intracoastal Waterway
Explore the calm, scenic waters surrounding Casey Key by kayak or paddleboard. The Intracoastal Waterway is home to dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular in the calm waters around the island.
Or visit Oscar Scherer State Park to explore 15 miles of hiking and biking trails.
5. Take a Day Trip to Venice
Just a short drive away, Venice is known as the Shark Tooth Capital of the World. Visitors can hunt for prehistoric shark teeth on Venice Beach or explore the charming downtown with its quaint shops and cafes.
If you visit in April, don’t miss the annual Venice Sharks Tooth Festival (coming up this year April 12-13, 2025). This family-friendly free event features food trucks, live music, and local vendors selling shark teeth and other beach-themed crafts.
Discover one of Florida’s Best-Kept Secrets
Just a few miles from some of Southwest Florida’s most popular beaches (like Siesta Key), Casey Key somehow manages to maintain an authentic Old Florida feel. It reminds me a lot of what Ft. Myers Beach used to be when I was a kid.
And Stephen King isn’t the only one who finds inspiration here—Casey Key is a dream destination for writers, artists, or anyone looking for peace and solitude.
While the island is home to some of the most expensive real estate in Florida, thanks to a few small, affordable hotels, its natural beauty is still easily accessible if you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly getaway.
So, if you’re craving a break from the crowds and commercialization of Florida’s bigger beach towns, take a trip to Casey Key. With its unique blend of natural beauty and small town charm, Casey Key delivers an authentic Florida experience that won’t break the bank.
Looking for more great destinations in Florida? Start Here:
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