Best Beaches
Anna Maria Island is like one continuous beach, seven miles of sand, shells, and ocean, all for you to enjoy. Anna Maria Island was named one of the Sunshine States “10 Best Beaches” and one of only four “Old Classic Florida” Destinations”. There is a trolley that stops at the beach parks so take a day and beach hop to explore.
Manatee Beach
Manatee Beach is a family favorite located at the entrance to the island. This beach has full facilities, complete with bathrooms, showers, and playground to help keep the little ones entertained. Lifeguard patrols are always on duty on this busy stretch of beach. Alcohol is not allowed on any of the island's beaches but there is a full-service outdoor restaurant and bar located in the beach park. There is a parking lot at this beach. Go early to get the best spot and enjoy your day! Take a right on 64 departing from the property and 1 mile and you are there!
Coquina Beach
Another great beach on Anna Maria Island is Coquina Beach. Sitting on the longest stretch of sand on Anna Maria Island, Coquina Beach covers the southern end of the island. Coquina Beach has tall palm trees lined along its path and offers plenty of shade under its picnic areas. There is parking. You will find plenty of concessions as well as the usual facilities and lifeguards.
Anna Maria Beach
On the northern tip of the island is Anna Maria Beach. This beach wraps around the end of the island and is perfect if you're looking for some peace and quiet. There are no facilities on this beach. If you are looking for a quiet place to swim or catch up on some reading in the Florida sun. this is your place. Check out the Rod and Reel Pier when you’re done for food or try your luck at fishing.
Bean Point
Beautiful, crystal clear waters (unless it has been storming) where you can see your feet even when you are in water up to your thighs! Great for families, because it is relatively shallow. Some days, it's completely tranquil, but other days (depending on weather). During summer months, the beach can be very crowded on weekends, but if you can come in Spring or Fall, you will avoid crowds and have your own piece of Paradise. Sunsets here are absolutely amazing. Parking can be tricky. You can park at the City Hall parking lot and walk down Pine Ave to the beach.
Preserves
Perico Preserve
About a 40 min. walk. While not a huge park, it provides an interesting circular walk, with an interesting variety of birdlife and habitat such as Blue Winged Teals, Grey Kingbird, Black Whiskered Vireo, Belted Kingfisher and Spoonbills, Roseate Spoonbills as well as the usual Cardinals. Beautiful landscape and plants. Located on 64 Next to One Particular Harbour. – 11301 Manatee Ave W. Bradenton, FL 34209
Neal Preserve
This small park features a nature trail that leads out to a view of Sarasota Bay, followed by an observation tower with a panorama of upper Sarasota Bay, Palma Sola Bay, and Holmes Beach. This is an easy walk taking about 45-50 minutes located on 64 across the street from One Particular Harbour. 12301 Manatee Ave W. Bradenton, FL 34209
Photo by: Rick Schwartz
