Let’s Begin our tour of the 15 best beaches on Anna Maria Island, where each beach reveals the story of sunshine and sea delight. Just imagine white sandy beaches and clear blue water that look so inviting that all you want to do is lay down and get a tan.
No matter what your ideal beach vacation is, whether you want it active and crowded with tourists or just secluded and quiet, Anna Maria Island caters to all your needs. Every beach, from Coquina Beach to the rather secluded Bean Point, is heavenly.
Are you excited to know about the best beaches on Anna Maria Island, where you can have the best time at the beach? So you stay with us to find all the answers to your questions.
15 Best Beaches on Anna Maria Island
Explore the 15 Best beaches on Anna Maria Island and uncover your perfect slice of paradise.
#1 Coquina Beach
The famous Coquina Beach on Anna Maria Island is one of the stunning places to explore or enjoy. Of all the beaches, it is the largest, stretching from the south edge of the island to the northernmost coast. It is quite similar to Anna Maria Beach and Manatee Beach and has big palm trees and tables for picnicking.
You’ll find everything there, like the snack bar, washrooms, and lifeguards. The busiest area is probably towards the south, and if you move to the north, the density is considerably less. Coquina Beach and other best beaches on Anna Maria Island are ideal for family holidays.
- Special Features: Picnic areas with barbecue grills, nature trails for birdwatching, and bike rentals available.
- Address: 2650 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217.
- Official Website: Coquina Beach
- Phone No: (941) 742-5923
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#2 Manatee Public Beach
Among these beaches is Manatee Public Beach on the island of Anna Maria, one of the residents’ and visitors’ favourite beaches. It is a place with soft sand and clear water that makes it perfect for swimming and sunbathing, mostly because you are out in the open air. Meal stations and volleyball courts are some of the facilities within the beach that serve families and visitors.
There will be all the important provisions for a beach, like a snack bar, washrooms, and even the lifeguards. The densest part of the site could be towards the south, while towards the north, there is significantly less crowd. Coquina Beach and other beaches on Anna Maria Island are good for parents with children.
- Special Features: Outdoor showers for rinsing off, beach wheelchair rentals for accessibility, and designated swimming areas.
- Address: 4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.
- Official Website: Manatee Public Beach
- Phone No: (941) 742-5923
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#3 Bradenton Beach
Bradenton Beach goes from 25th Street North to Cortez Beach, situated on Anna Maria Island, and is visited by thousands of tourists. It is a little less active than Holmes Beach but still active, with many restaurants and shops in the neighbourhood. The beach is known for the shipwreck foundation dating back to the 1940s.
It makes the beach famous for scuba diving and snorkelling. If that is not your cup of tea, you can still have fun by building sandcastle, swimming, or seashell searching. Metre parking is free in Bradenton Beach, and those who come early will find a space. You can park here at the rental or walk from there, or if intending to drive, get here early to secure space within the adjacent parking lots or at the sides of the roads. It is considered among the best beaches on Anna Maria Island, and I assure you you won’t regret visiting it.
- Special Features: Beachfront restaurants and bars, beach volleyball tournaments during peak season, nearby shops and boutiques.
- Address: 1800 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217.
- Official Website: Bradenton Beach
- Phone No: (941) 778-1005
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#4 Anna Maria Beach
The island’s most famous beach, which is popular for its quiet and beautiful environment for recreation, is Anna Maria Beach, located on the island’s northern coast. It has soft white sand and clear water and, therefore, is relatively less frequented by tourists and is for relaxation. Some of the activities that the visitors can engage in at Anna Maria Beach include swimming, sunbathing, and shelling, among others, on a quiet beach.
Sunsets are also beautiful, particularly for those people who find themselves at the shore of the sea. As a result of the lack of lifeguards and facilities, one of the reasons people go there to rest is serenity, which is associated with nature, especially the beach. There is also provision for parking of cars, and this is done on a first-come, first-served basis. Any car parking is free but very limited.
- Special Features: unspoiled beach, good shelling, and sea turtle nesting grounds (limited from late spring to early fall).
- Address: 611 FL-789, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217, United States
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
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#5 Bayfront Park
Undoubtedly, Bay Front Park is one of the most charming and calm beaches on Anna Maria Island and will offer you the best opportunity to watch untouched nature. It is a beautiful, peaceful, isolated place with a good fish market and several long concrete pathways by the seashore.
If you want to sit and eat your sandwiches with the sun shining down on you or prefer to take a long walk alone, it provides calm minds and sunny weather. It will also help individuals, groups, families, and lovers access areas where they can have their picnic easily, as well as the arrangement of park benches. Experience the charm and tranquillity of one of the best beaches on Anna Maria Island at Bayfront Park.
- Special Features: Mangrove conservation area for nature walks, wildlife observation platforms, kayak and paddleboard rentals.
- Address: 316 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216, United States
- Official Website: Bayfront Park
- Phone No: +19417484501
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#6 Cortez Beach
This beach has soft white sand and crystal-clear water from the Gulf of Mexico and is very quiet. The beaches of Cortez say it all when it comes to the most beautiful sunny vacation you should take if you are feeling blue and want to swim in the water or stroll around taking a sun bath with your loved one.
It is an informal and stunning island that people of the community and visitors can freely go to; therefore, as tourists experience the beach at Anna Maria Island, it is an unforgettable enjoyable experience. You should not let this chance slip away. Pass away to visit Cortez Beach, one of the best beaches on Anna Maria Island.
- Special Features: Stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, a great spot for kite flying, and a serene atmosphere.
- Address: 698 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217, United States
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#7 Holmes Beach
When planning to visit Anna Maria Island, paying a visit to Holmes Beach is recommended. Holmes Beach is one of the most frequented spots because of the sandy beaches and many activities. It has white sand that is very fine, clear water, and is quite good for swimming, sunbathing, and even looking for sea shells.
For parents eager to spend time in nature, couples who want to watch the sunset together, and those who get tired after a long working week, Holmes Beach is the perfect place to be. You shouldn’t miss Holmes Beach when visiting Anna Maria Island on vacation!
- Special Features: Sunset viewing areas, beachfront yoga classes (seasonal), and dog-friendly sections with waste stations.
- Address: Holmes Beach, FL 34217
- Official Website: Holmes Beach
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#8 Bean Point Beach
See one of the most beautiful and best beaches on Anna Maria Island, Bean Point Beach! Located at the northern end of this pretty island in Florida, Bean Point Beach impresses tourists due to its serene environment. It is one of the finest and least crowded beaches for a vacation, rich in white sand and aquamarine water and overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.
Found on the northern part of White Sand Beach, this beach is named after the island’s first settler, George Emerson Bean, who built a house in the area in 1928. This beach is immensely popular for sunbathing, making it among the best places to visit to enjoy a good tan. Suppose a reader is searching for a perfectly quiet spot for a vacation day, a good place for a couple’s romantic sunset walk, or just a calm gaze at the splendid surroundings of nature. In that case, Bean Point Beach in Anna Maria Island will not disappoint.
- Special Features: Spectacular sunrise views, a prime spot for dolphin sightings, and calm waters for swimming.
- Address: 97 13th St S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217, United States
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#9 Bradenton Beach City Pier
Discover one of the best beaches on Anna Maria Island at Bradenton Beach City Pier. In this manner, you may visualize catching big fish in gulf water with a fishing rod, admire a butterfly coast view, and view a beautiful sunset in the background.
The pier’s calm environment also includes sightings of dolphins, carrying picnic baskets, enjoying food in the serene atmosphere, and bird watching, among others. In a cultural and recreational sense, the laid-back city of Bradenton Beach, specifically the Bradenton Beach City Pier, guarantees a tourist a good time.
- Special Features: Fishing tournaments and events, live music performances on weekends, sunset cruises departing from the pier.
- Address: 107 Gulf Dr. S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217.
- Official Website: Bradenton Beach City Pier
- Phone No: (941) 778-1005
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#10 Anna Maria City Pier
If you ever decide to disappear from the world and go to a beach resort, I strongly advise visiting Anna Maria on Anna Maria. It is an important historical monument and an entrance to some of the best beaches on Anna Maria Island.
Moreover, one will discover picturesque views of the turquoise waters and pure sands, which welcome anyone for relaxation and walks. Furthermore, with its proximity to such beaches as Bean Point, Coquina Beach, and Manatee Public Beach, there are numerous opportunities for suntan bathing, swimming, and water games on your way.
- Special Features: Historic landmark with panoramic views, pelican feeding sessions, and fishing equipment rentals.
- Address: 100 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216.
- Official Website: Anna Maria City Pier
- Phone No: (941) 708-6130
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#11 Manatee County Beach
Manatee Beach, located at Highway 64’s terminus, has easy access and family-oriented entertainment options. A wide sandy beach steps out of the car park, making it perfect for laid-back beach days. You can also engage in active volleyball matches at sand courts or slowly walk to Bean Point.
Lifesavers guard shallow, warm waters. Are you feeling hungry? In addition, at Anna Maria Island Cafe, one can dine by the seaside or go to Skinny’s for burgers. Therefore, they have grills and picnic tables if you prefer to prepare your food. It makes Manatee Public Beach very convenient since it accommodates parking lots that can accommodate more than 100 cars.
- Special Features: Families’ sandcastle building competitions, seasonal beach movie nights, and eco-friendly actions like recycling containers.
- Address: 4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217.
- Official Website: Manatee County Beach
- Phone No: (941) 742-5923
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#12 Palmetto Avenue Beaches
Palmetto Avenue Beach, situated near the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, is a serene and secluded retreat from the madding crowd. It is ideal for tranquil sunbathing and swimming, with its untouched sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. However, visitors should remember that no lifeguards or facilities are on site, so come with everything you need.
There are limited parking spaces on Gulf Boulevard that are free, or you can bike around the island for easy mobility. Even though it fails to offer amenities, this quiet place has soft sands like white sugar, great shelling opportunities, and a chance to escape crowds. Importantly, pets are not allowed.
- Special Features: Secluded coves for private sunbathing, shallow tidal pools for children to explore, ideal for romantic beach picnics.
- Address: Palmetto Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216.
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
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#13 Gulf Drive Beach
Although Gulf Drive isn’t a beach, it’s a road along Anna Maria Island’s west coast. You will come across many public beach access points along Gulf Drive. These small openings provide direct access from the road onto the beach itself. Some may have parking lots and restrooms, while others never get lifeguards or restaurants like those at big beaches.
It might be not easy to locate them individually because they do not have specific names. Look out for “Public Beach Access” signs on Gulf Drive or search online maps using “Public Beach Access on Gulf Drive at [landmark or street number].” The quickest way to find exactly where you want is by calling the Chamber of Commerce.
- Special Features: Beachfront cabana rentals, beach volleyball courts, nearby ice cream stands, and snack bars.
- Address: Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#14 Pine Avenue Beach
Anna Maria Island has a fun street called Pine Avenue that includes many shops and restaurants leading straight to the beach. Pine Avenue has public access points, which are like little passages to the beach. Sometimes, these spots have parking and restrooms, but rarely any lifeguards or food stalls.
The great thing about this is that you can spend your morning at the beach before continuing with lunch or shopping in the afternoon. These cuts are not immediately obvious because they do not bear special names. It would help if you looked online for “Public Beach Access on Pine Avenue or call the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce for their exact locations.
- Special Features: Hammock rentals for lazy beach days, guided nature walks with local experts, and stunning sunset photography opportunities.
- Address: Florida 34216, USA
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
#15 White Avenue Beach
White Avenue Beach is one of the best options for a peaceful place. The beach access points along White Avenue are less crowded, perfect for a quiet day at the beach. It is also close to shops and places to eat after the beach for entertainment. Nevertheless, you must know that these entrances only have a few facilities.
If you want more facilities than this, try Holmes Beach, Coquina Beach, and Manatee Public Beach, other popular beaches. However serene White Avenue Beach is, it would be important to explore what other top-ranked beaches on the island offer to land on the right spot for your beach holiday.
- Special Features: Snorkeling in waters that are crystal clear; beach combing for special shells and sea glass; occasional beach fire events.
- Address: Florida 34217, USA
- Google Map Direction: Get Direction
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The Best Time To visit the best beaches on Anna Maria Island
| Best time to visit the Beaches | Best Things To Do |
| January – March | Walk along Bean Point’s beautiful shores, collecting seashells. Enjoy a picnic or play beach volleyball at Coquina Beach |
| April – June | Swim and sunbathe at Manatee Public Beach. Explore Holmes Beach for local food and shops. |
| July – September | Watch fireworks on Independence Day at Bayfront Park Beach. Try fishing from the pier or take a sunset cruise. |
| October – December | Relax at the quieter White Avenue Beach. Discover hidden spots along Pine Avenue for a peaceful beach day. |
Conclusion
Anna Maria Island’s beaches are magic, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. Let the waves and sunsets create unforgettable moments for you to cherish. Tennis is enjoyable at Bean Point, and one can have fun at Coquina Beach, depending on what interests one most.
There is much to do, from the dazzling pictures painted in the dusk to the feeling accorded by the sweet splashes of the sea’s waves. So dust off your swimsuit and flip-flops, and see why Anna Maria Island has the best beaches!
Some FAQs
Which is the best beach for Families?
Manatee Public Beach is one of the beaches on Anna Maria Island for families due to its lifeguards, picnic areas, and nearby amenities like restrooms and concessions.
Where can you watch the stunning sunset on the Island?
All the beaches on the western side of Anna Maria Island are known for their wonderful sunset views, among which Bean Point and Bayfront Park Beach are famous for this sight.
Can you rent equipment like a chair and umbrella?
There are rental shops close to the beaches where you can rent umbrellas, chairs, beach carts, and other facilities for a day out.
Are there any places available for Parking?
Of course, there are parking lots and, in many cases, street parking near almost every beach on the island. However, parking can get crowded in the summer when people go on tours, so it is advisable to arrive early.
