Anna Maria Island is a hidden gem nestled in the Gulf of Mexico, just off the coast of Florida. This charming island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal clear waters and white sand stretching for miles on end. Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, the beaches on Anna Maria Island are a must-see destination. From secluded coves to bustling waterfronts, there’s something here for everyone. In this article, we’ll be exploring the best beaches on Anna Maria Island and highlighting what makes each one unique. So pack your sunscreen, grab your towels, and get ready to explore the stunning beaches of Anna Maria Island.
1. Palmetto Avenue Beach
Palmetto Avenue Beach is located on the northern end of Anna Maria Island in Florida. This small beach is a local favorite for its clear blue waters, soft white sand, and relaxed atmosphere.
The beach is not very crowded, even during peak season, making it a great spot for those looking for a more peaceful and secluded beach experience. The water is relatively calm, making it a good spot for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
There are no lifeguards on duty, so visitors should exercise caution when swimming or participating in water activities. However, the beach is generally safe and family-friendly.
Palmetto Avenue Beach has limited amenities, including public restrooms, showers, and parking. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a parking spot, as parking is limited.
2. Anna Maria Beach
Anna Maria Beach is a beautiful and popular beach located on Anna Maria Island in Florida. This white-sand beach stretches for miles along the Gulf of Mexico and offers visitors a wide range of activities and amenities.
The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and stunning sunsets, making it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Anna Maria Beach is also home to several beachfront restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering visitors a chance to grab a bite to eat or pick up souvenirs.
The beach has several amenities for visitors, including public restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. There are also several picnic areas and grills available for public use.
Anna Maria Beach is a popular destination, especially during peak season, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a parking spot. There are several public parking lots and street parking available nearby.
3. Coquina Beach
Coquina Beach is a beautiful and popular beach located on Anna Maria Island in Florida. This white-sand beach stretches for miles along the Gulf of Mexico and offers visitors a wide range of activities and amenities.
The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and stunning sunsets, making it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Coquina Beach is also home to several beachfront restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering visitors a chance to grab a bite to eat or pick up souvenirs.
The beach has several amenities for visitors, including public restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. There are also several picnic areas and grills available for public use.
Coquina Beach is a popular destination, especially during peak season, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a parking spot. There are several public parking lots and street parking available nearby.
4. Cortez Beach
When it comes to breathtaking beaches in Florida, Cortez Beach is a must-visit destination. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this stunning beach offers a wide range of activities for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax and bask in the sun or want to indulge in thrilling water sports, Cortez Beach has got you covered.
One of the most notable features of Cortez Beach is its crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The beach boasts a long stretch of soft, powdery sand that’s ideal for sunbathing, reading a book, or simply taking a leisurely stroll. You can also enjoy a picnic or barbecue with your family and friends on the grassy areas or under the shaded pavilions. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coast from a different perspective.
The beach is also popular for fishing, and you can catch a variety of fish, including flounder, snapper, and redfish. You can even charter a boat and go deep-sea fishing for a chance to catch some big game fish. Cortez Beach is a great spot for families with children, as there are playgrounds and plenty of space for them to run around and play. The beach is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for a day of fun in the sun. You’ll find plenty of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and parking, making it easy to spend the entire day at the beach.
5. Manatee Public Beach
Manatee Public Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the state of Florida. It is located on the beautiful Anna Maria Island and is known for its stunning white sand and crystal clear waters. The beach is named after the endangered manatee, which can be seen swimming in the area from time to time. Manatee Public Beach is a great place to spend the day with family and friends, as there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
One of the main attractions of Manatee Public Beach is the large pavilion, which provides shade and shelter from the sun. The pavilion is perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. There are also several picnic tables and grills available for visitors to use. Additionally, there are restrooms, showers, and changing rooms located near the pavilion. For those who like to stay active, Manatee Public Beach offers a variety of outdoor activities. Volleyball nets are set up on the beach, and there are several basketball courts and a playground nearby.
Visitors can also rent paddleboards, kayaks, and other water sports equipment to explore the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Manatee Public Beach is also home to several great restaurants and snack bars. Visitors can grab a bite to eat at the Beach Cafe, which serves up delicious burgers, hot dogs, and other classic beach fare. There is also a popular ice cream stand, which is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.
6. Bean Point
Are you looking for a hidden gem on the gorgeous Anna Maria Island? Look no further than Bean Point. This stunning beach offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Located at the northernmost tip of the island, Bean Point boasts crystal clear waters, soft white sands, and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Named after the island’s first permanent resident, George Emerson Bean, Bean Point offers visitors a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else on Anna Maria Island. It’s a peaceful retreat where you can relax, unwind, and soak up the sun. Whether you’re looking to read a book, take a dip in the ocean, or simply enjoy the scenery, Bean Point has it all. But what makes Bean Point truly special is its seclusion. Unlike many other beaches in the area, Bean Point is not easily accessible by car. Visitors must park their vehicles and walk a short distance to reach the beach.
This means that Bean Point is never overcrowded, and you can enjoy the peaceful sound of waves crashing on the shore without being disturbed by crowds of people. In addition to its natural beauty, Bean Point is also steeped in history. George Emerson Bean was the first settler on Anna Maria Island, arriving in 1892. Today, visitors can explore the remains of his homestead, which includes a small cemetery where Bean and his family were laid to rest.
7. Bradenton Beach
Bradenton Beach is a hidden gem located on the stunning Maria Island in Florida. This charming beach town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. The pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets make Bradenton Beach a popular destination among tourists from all over the world. The Bradenton Beach area offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy, from fishing and boating to paddleboarding and kayaking.
The area is also known for its diverse wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the island by taking a guided tour or renting a bike or golf cart to explore on their own. Apart from the natural beauty, Bradenton Beach also offers a range of cultural attractions. The historic Bridge Street Pier is a popular spot for fishing and offers stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. The area is also home to a range of art galleries, museums, and theaters that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Bradenton Beach also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious seafood, traditional American cuisine, and international flavors. Visitors can enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the ocean or grab a quick bite at one of the many food trucks and beachside vendors.
8. Holmes Beach
Bradenton Beach is a hidden gem located on the picturesque island of Anna Maria, Florida. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laidback vibe, this small town has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Bradenton Beach boasts of a vibrant community that offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or indulge in some water sports, Bradenton Beach has something for everyone.
One of the highlights of Bradenton Beach is its stunning coastline. The beach stretches for miles and is lined with swaying palm trees, making it the perfect place to catch a tan or take a dip in the refreshing waters. The beach is also home to several beachfront restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal while taking in the breathtaking views. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a jet ski, kayak or paddleboard and explore the sparkling waters.
Apart from the beach, Bradenton Beach is also home to several unique attractions. The Historic Bridge Street Pier is a must-visit destination, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway. You can also go fishing or watch the sunset from this iconic landmark. Another popular attraction is the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, which provides a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture.
9. Beer Can Island Beach
Beer Can Island Beach, also known as Beer Can Island, is a popular and secluded beach located on the southern end of Anna Maria Island in Florida. The beach is accessible only by boat or by wading across a shallow inlet, which adds to its secluded and tranquil atmosphere.
The beach is known for its soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and stunning views. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful day on the beach, swimming, sunbathing, and taking in the natural beauty of the area.
Beer Can Island Beach has limited amenities, so visitors are encouraged to bring their own food, water, and supplies. There are no public restrooms or showers, and visitors are responsible for taking their trash with them when leaving the island.
Information on beach parking on Anna Maria Island
There are several public parking areas available on Anna Maria Island in Florida. Here are some popular options for beach parking:
- Coquina Beach: This popular beach on the southern end of the island has a large parking lot with over 400 spaces. Parking costs $3 per hour or $15 per day, and there are public restrooms, showers, and picnic areas available.
- Manatee Public Beach: Located on the western side of the island, Manatee Public Beach has a large parking lot with over 400 spaces. Parking costs $3 per hour or $15 per day, and there are public restrooms, showers, and picnic areas available.
- Bayfront Park: This park on the northern end of the island has a small parking lot with around 25 spaces. Parking is free, and there are public restrooms and a playground available.
- City Pier Park: This park on the northern end of the island has a small parking lot with around 25 spaces. Parking is free, and there are public restrooms, picnic tables, and a fishing pier available.
- Bradenton Beach: This beach on the southern end of the island has several small parking lots and street parking available. Parking costs $3 per hour or $15 per day, and there are public restrooms and showers available.
It’s important to note that parking on Anna Maria Island can be difficult, especially during peak season. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a parking spot or consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services to get to the beach.
