Manasota Key Real Estate: Finding Your Slice of Paradise
- Darren Sherwood
- 1 minute ago
- 10 min read
Finding Your Dream Home on Manasota Key

Manasota Key properties for sale offer exclusive beachfront living. Currently, there are 95 homes for sale with a median home price of $475,000, with prices ranging from waterfront condos around $340,000 to luxury estates reaching $7.7 million.
Quick Overview of Manasota Key Properties for Sale:
95 active listings currently available
Price range: $340,000 - $7.7 million
152 waterfront properties with Gulf or Bay access
Popular types: Single-family homes, luxury estates, waterfront condos
Average lot sizes: 5,000 sq ft to over 5 acres
Key features: Private beach access, boat docks, resort-style amenities
This barrier island between the Gulf of Mexico and Lemon Bay delivers a perfect blend of privacy, natural beauty, and luxury living. Unlike crowded tourist spots, Manasota Key maintains its old Florida charm with uncrowded beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Properties here attract buyers seeking spacious estates, guest accommodations, and modern amenities, often without restrictive HOAs. The island's hurricane-resilient construction and strong investment potential make it especially appealing.
I'm Darren Sherwood, Managing Broker at Gramercy Vale Real Estate. I've helped many clients steer Manasota Key properties for sale to find their perfect coastal retreat. My expertise in Florida's luxury real estate market allows me to identify exceptional opportunities in this exclusive market.

Understanding the Market for Manasota Key Properties for Sale
The Manasota Key real estate market is consistent and in-demand, with 95 homes currently for sale at a median price of $475,000. The market shows strong buyer confidence with a 7.3% year-over-year price increase as of June 2025. Homes sell quickly, typically within 70 days and at 96% of the asking price, highlighting the area's desirability.
The market's strength comes from a rare combination of privacy and luxury. Manasota Key properties for sale deliver a blend of seclusion and sophistication, from sprawling estates to cozy waterfront retreats, that is hard to find elsewhere on Florida's coast.
The investment potential here is particularly strong. Many properties work well as vacation rentals, allowing owners to enjoy their slice of paradise while generating income. This dual appeal—personal retreat and smart investment—keeps the market competitive.
What are the Most Common Property Types?
Manasota Key properties for sale offer a variety for all lifestyles and budgets. Single-family homes are most common, from charming Old Florida cottages to magnificent beachfront estates, often with private beach access or direct waterfront on Lemon Bay.
Luxury estates are the crown jewels of the island, typically on expansive lots with multiple residences, resort-style amenities, and private beachfront. They are perfect for large families or investors seeking high-end vacation rentals.
For a maintenance-free lifestyle, waterfront condos offer stunning views and community amenities like pools and shared beach access, ideal for those who want the island experience without the upkeep of a large property.
Vacant land offers a rare chance to build a custom dream home, with premium prices for lots with water access. Duplex, triplex, and manufactured homes provide additional options for investors, multi-generational families, or those seeking more affordable entry points.
What is the Average Price for Manasota Key Properties for Sale?
The pricing for Manasota Key properties for sale is diverse. While the median price is $475,000, the range is wide. Smaller properties or condos may start in the low hundreds of thousands, while premium vacant land can be listed for $7.7 million. Most single-family homes and luxury properties fall between $665,000 and $5 million.
Location drives everything. Properties with direct Gulf access and private beachfront command the highest prices. Bayfront properties offer calmer waters for boating and incredible sunset views over Lemon Bay. Canal-front homes with boat lifts also provide excellent value.
Lot size plays a huge role, with properties ranging from 5,000 square foot lots to estates over 5 acres. More water frontage increases a property's value.
Water access features like deeded beach rights, private boat docks, or seawalls add significant value. A home's age and condition are also key factors, with newer or renovated properties fetching higher prices, though charming older homes remain appealing.
When you factor in amenities like private pools, lush landscaping, and multiple residences, you understand why certain properties command top dollar. If you're considering the market, I'd love to show you what makes properties like 8400 Manasota Key Road so special. Contact me at Gramercy Vale Real Estate at (239) 307-8545 or email darren@gramercyvale.com to explore your options.
Key Features Buyers Seek in Manasota Key
When buyers explore Manasota Key properties for sale, they seek a lifestyle, not just a house. The most desired features reveal what makes island living so irresistible.

Private beach access is a top priority. Imagine stepping from your home onto a pristine Gulf beach, free from crowds and parking hassles—your own slice of paradise.
For water enthusiasts, private boat docks, lifts, and seawalls are essential. Lemon Bay's calm waters offer endless possibilities for fishing, kayaking, and exploring Florida's waterways from your own backyard.
Private pool homes complement beach living perfectly. After a morning on the sand, you can float in your own pool surrounded by lush landscaping of mature trees and tropical foliage that creates natural privacy.
Buyers also prioritize hurricane resilience. Solid construction is crucial, and many seek homes built to current codes or updated with storm-resistant features. Even older homes on the island have proven their durability.
Resort-style amenities are highly sought after. Some properties, like our featured listing at 8400 Manasota Key Road, offer these privately on expansive grounds. Others provide access through optional memberships to facilities like pools and tennis courts. Some buyers even seek properties with private putting greens.
Typical Property and Lot Sizes
Space and privacy define the Manasota Key experience. Manasota Key properties for sale offer a remarkable variety of home and lot sizes, setting the island apart from more crowded coastal areas.
Square footage ranges dramatically, from cozy 400-square-foot retreats to grand estates exceeding 9,000 square feet designed for entertaining and multi-generational living.
Lot sizes showcase what makes Manasota Key special, ranging from 5,000-square-foot lots to properties sprawling across multiple acres. The most extraordinary are rare Gulf-to-Bay lots, which can exceed 5 acres and stretch from the Gulf of Mexico to Lemon Bay.
These Gulf-to-Bay properties are the pinnacle of Florida luxury, allowing you to watch the sunrise over Lemon Bay and the sunset over the Gulf from your own land. They offer best versatility for relaxation and recreation.
Non-HOA living is common, giving owners freedom to customize their homes and landscaping. This flexibility, combined with generous lot sizes, creates the expansive views and privacy that define island living.
Popular Neighborhoods and Areas
Manasota Key has distinct areas, each with unique advantages. Manasota Key Road connects these zones while preserving the island's relaxed atmosphere.
North Manasota Key attracts buyers seeking maximum privacy and exclusivity, with larger estates and less commercial activity. South Manasota Key, closer to the Englewood mainland, provides easier access to shopping and dining. The Englewood Beach area offers a perfect balance of convenience and coastal living, with nearby Stump Pass Beach State Park adding tremendous value.
Roads like N Beach Road, Pelican Shores Circle, Coral Harbour Drive, Beach Dune Drive, and Sand Dollar Lane are distinct enclaves, each with its own character and unique water access or community features.
While the island has no schools, its location provides excellent options. Proximity to Venice and Englewood means residents can access top-rated schools in both Sarasota and Charlotte counties.
To experience this lifestyle, schedule a showing at 8400 Manasota Key Road. Contact Gramercy Vale Real Estate at (239) 307-8545 or email me at darren@gramercyvale.com to explore.
The Manasota Key Lifestyle: Pros and Considerations
Living on Manasota Key means embracing a rare Old Florida charm. Life moves to the rhythm of the tides, where you can watch the sunrise over Lemon Bay and the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

The seclusion and privacy are extraordinary. Unlike crowded beach towns, Manasota Key offers pristine, private-feeling beaches. Lush landscaping and large lots create natural barriers, ensuring tranquility.
For water enthusiasts, boating and fishing become part of the daily routine. Cast a line from your private dock on Lemon Bay or head to the Gulf for world-class fishing. Kayaking and paddleboarding in the calm bay waters offer peaceful exploration.
The island's beaches are famous for shelling, with new treasures washed ashore daily. Wildlife viewing is equally spectacular, with dolphins, manatees, and over 200 bird species.
The relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty are striking. Neighbors are friendly, sunset watching is a ritual, and the pace of life slows. The genuine community feel comes from residents who share a love for this lifestyle.
Despite its peaceful nature, the island offers outdoor activities like tennis and pickleball, while fine dining options serve fresh Gulf seafood and international fare.
However, island living has important considerations. Hurricane preparedness is a reality. Having an evacuation plan and understanding your property's flood zone is essential. Flood zones and insurance costs require careful attention, and we help buyers understand these factors upfront.
Important Factors for Buyers
When considering Manasota Key properties for sale, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. Property taxes vary dramatically, from around $1,675 annually for modest properties to over $35,000 for luxury estates.
HOA fees are another factor. Many properties proudly advertise "no HOA," appealing to buyers seeking maximum freedom. However, some communities and condos do have associations, with fees ranging from $12 annually to $917 monthly for extensive amenities.
CDD fees are refreshingly uncommon here, representing significant long-term savings for homeowners compared to newer mainland developments.
Flood insurance requires careful budgeting. Most properties require flood coverage, and rates vary based on your flood zone. We recommend obtaining insurance quotes early in your buying process.
Zoning regulations are generally property-owner friendly, preserving the island's residential character while allowing reasonable property enjoyment.
If you're drawn to this lifestyle, explore our featured property at 8400 Manasota Key Road. To schedule a private showing, contact me at Gramercy Vale Real Estate at (239) 307-8545 or email darren@gramercyvale.com.
A Premier Opportunity: 8400 Manasota Key Road
When I show clients Manasota Key properties for sale, one property always takes their breath away. The magnificent estate at 8400 Manasota Key Road isn't just another listing—it's the embodiment of a dream.

This rare one-acre lot offers unparalleled space and privacy, a true treasure on a barrier island. But its size is just the beginning of what makes it special.
The property features multiple residences—a stunning main house and a charming guest cottage. This setup is perfect for visiting family and friends or offers incredible flexibility for rental income.
The property's true highlight is its expansive private beachfront. Step directly onto your own slice of Gulf paradise, free from crowds and hassles—just you, the waves, and endless white sand.
The resort-style amenities transform daily life into a permanent vacation. With features rivaling the finest resorts in your own backyard, you'll find little reason to leave.
From an investment potential standpoint, this property is a goldmine. The Airbnb potential is extraordinary, as luxury travelers pay premium rates for this level of privacy and beachfront access. It's a turnkey opportunity that can generate substantial income while appreciating in value.
Properties combining this size, privacy, multiple residences, and incredible beachfront are a once-in-a-lifetime find.
Ready to see it for yourself? Visit our official website for complete details, or check out the full listing on Zillow.
I'd love to show you around personally. Contact me, Darren Sherwood, at Gramercy Vale Real Estate—call (239) 307-8545 or email darren@gramercyvale.com to schedule your private showing.
Your Next Steps to Owning in Paradise
Ready to make your Manasota Key dream a reality? The path to owning your slice of paradise is straightforward. Here are the essential steps to get you from dreaming to door keys.
First, get pre-approved for financing. This is crucial in a competitive market for luxury waterfront homes, as it shows sellers you're a serious buyer. Be aware that lenders may require larger down payments for vacation homes.
Next, find a local expert agent. This is essential on Manasota Key, with its unique considerations like flood zones, hurricane history, and water rights. A local expert understands the nuances between Gulf-front and Bay-front properties, which significantly impact value and lifestyle.
Define your must-haves. On a barrier island, priorities shift from commutes to lifestyle features. Decide what's essential: direct Gulf access, a boat dock, a large private lot, or a maintenance-free condo? Focus on water access, privacy, and amenities that improve your experience.
When scheduling viewings, be flexible. Desirable properties move quickly, averaging 70 days on market. Be prepared to visit multiple properties, as the perfect home you saw online may get an offer before you can see it.
Finally, when you're ready to make an offer, be decisive. With a strong list-to-sale price ratio of 96%, properties sell close to asking price. In this competitive market, being prepared can make all the difference.
Tips for Buyers Interested in Manasota Key Properties for Sale
Here are a few key strategies to help you succeed in your search for Manasota Key properties for sale, saving you time and money.
Work with a local realtor—it's your secret weapon. An expert agent knows which properties have the best sunset views, which seawalls need attention, and which neighborhoods offer the most privacy. They understand nuances that online listings can't capture, like a property's storm history or why one Gulf-front lot commands a premium over another.
Understanding waterfront values is crucial. Gulf-front properties offer a classic beach lifestyle but command top dollar. Bay-front homes provide calmer waters for boating and spectacular sunrise views. Canal-front properties can offer excellent value with boat access at a more accessible price.
Inspecting for storm readiness should be at the top of your checklist. A thorough inspection of the seawall, foundation, and hurricane-preparedness features will help you make an informed decision about safety and future costs.
Consider the excellent rental potential of Manasota Key properties for sale. The island's exclusivity makes it popular for luxury vacation rentals. Properties with multiple residences can be particularly lucrative.
Most importantly, act decisively in this competitive market. When you find the right property, don't hesitate. The best properties often receive multiple offers within days.
If you're ready to start your search, consider visiting 8400 Manasota Key Road to see a premier example of island living. To schedule a private showing, contact me at Gramercy Vale Real Estate at (239) 307-8545 or email darren@gramercyvale.com. You can also find full details on Zillow.
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Manasota Key Home
Your search for the perfect coastal retreat ends on Manasota Key, where luxury meets tranquility. This barrier island is a magical place where Manasota Key properties for sale are gateways to a lifestyle balancing privacy, natural beauty, and sophisticated living.
Whether you're dreaming of a serene personal retreat or seeking a high-potential investment property with excellent rental income possibilities, Manasota Key delivers exceptional opportunities.
The island's character shines through in its diverse properties, from charming cottages to luxury estates. The blend of Old Florida charm with modern, hurricane-resilient construction creates an unparalleled living experience.
Your slice of paradise awaits. The current market offers 95 active listings with a median price of $475,000, and properties are moving quickly. With homes selling close to asking price and strong appreciation, now is an excellent time to explore Manasota Key.
For the ultimate Manasota Key experience, we invite you to explore the extraordinary opportunity at 8400 Manasota Key Road. This rare one-acre beachfront estate exemplifies everything that makes island living so special.
Ready to begin your journey? Contact Gramercy Vale Real Estate at (239) 307-8545 or email Darren Sherwood at darren@gramercyvale.com to schedule a private showing. You can find full property details on our homepage or on Zillow.
Your perfect Manasota Key home is waiting—let's find it together.