Lido Key and St. Armands Circle Real Estate
Lido Key real estate and St. Armands Circle (named for its first resident, Charles St. Armand who called it home in 1933) encompasses a pretty patchwork of varied property styles. Many of the original luxury homes are still present on both the bayside and the beachside, while newer, modern bayfront properties dot the neighborhoods. It makes for a veritable architectural tour just to drive through the streets and boulevards. Small inland bungalows and vacation type cottages offer a simple, relaxed ambience; sparkling new beachfront condominiums incorporate every modern convenience and luxury; and stately mansions from an earlier era oversee the measured growth and development.
Lido Key Real estate is split into three divisions. Lido Beach Division real estate is located on the southern tip of the island and comprised of a mix of Lido Key real estate. St. Armand’s Division is located in the center of Lido Key and provides its residents the closest proximity to St. Armand’s Circle. Lido Shores Division can be found on the northern tip of Lido Key bordering Longboat Key. The majority of real estate in Lido Shores Division are single family homes.
Today Lido Key real estate and the shopping district of St. Armand’s Circle is a busy, successful place with much to offer residents and visitors. The beach at Lido is the closest beach to the mainland and is bookmarked by two parks at either end. South Lido Park is a favorite place for leisurely kayak trips through tunnels in the native mangroves, or hiking through the pines. Sunsets from the beach and beach hotels are often truly spectacular.
There is a palpable energy present on “the circle” with its trendy boutiques, galleries, fine restaurants and everyone’s favorite ice cream vendors. Weekends throughout the year feature special events on the circle, such as antique car shows, art shows, jazz concerts and fund-raising events for many of the area not-for-profit organizations. Come see our Lido Key real estate and Sarasota luxury homes today.
Once home to a famed casino, Lido Key occupies the southern terminus of the stretch of keys anchored by Longboat Key. For 4,000 years it was the home of Paleo and Calusa Indians, who fished, practiced various crafts and lived peaceful lives. Sadly the native residents were driven out by the Spanish explorers in the 1500’s. The Key was then uninhabited until the early 1900’s when circus magnate John Ringling set his eyes on owning the pristine spit of land. When the Ringling Causeway was constructed, connecting Lido with the mainland, the flood gates were opened to development.
In 1940, the Key was revitalized by the construction of Lido Beach Casino. It attracted celebrities and foreign investors who built massive stylish period homes along its bay and beach front. The famous casino fell out of favor after two decades and was closed in 1969. Many long term residents recall the Lido Casino as a bright spot in the Key’s, and indeed the entire area’s history.