Discover the Magic of AMI
If you’re dreaming of sugar-white sand and turquoise Gulf waters, Anna Maria Island deserves a place at the top of your bucket list! Living locally gives us access to more than thirty beaches, yet Anna Maria Island is the one we return to time and again.
Tucked along Florida’s Gulf Coast, this seven-mile barrier island is where laid-back vibes meet unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo reset, here’s a brief guide of our local favorites.
🌊 Soak Up the Sun at Iconic Beaches
🏖️ Bean Point
At the northern tip of the island, Bean Point is a slice of paradise. With panoramic views where Tampa Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico, it’s perfect for serene morning walks, shell hunting, and postcard-worthy sunsets. This is not a beach for swimming because of the dangerous rip currents, but it is the perfect place to enjoy serenity.
Bean Point is a secluded, residential-area beach with very limited parking and no dedicated parking lot. To find it, head north on N. Bay Blvd or N. Shore Dr to the tip of the island and look for public access signs. Park in designated, free street-side spots on Gladiolus St, Fern St, or Jacaranda Rd, arriving before 9 am to secure a spot. Ensure all tires are completely off the pavement and inside the white lines to avoid tickets.
🌅 Manatee Public Beach (AKA Holmes Beach)
Looking for a vibrant atmosphere and convenience? Manatee Public Beach offers this and more.
- Free parking (get there early, as it fills up quickly)
- Outdoor showers, changing rooms and restrooms
- Lifeguards on duty (seasonally)
- Fully stocked bar (no alcohol can be taken out of the designated area)
- Beach café, featuring a $7.99 all you can eat pancake breakfast https://www.amibeachcafe.com/ (Check out their website for hours, menu, and entertainment calendar.)
- Beach volleyball court
- Beach shop with many unique items and beach essentials, if you forget anything
It’s family-friendly, lively, and ideal for a full beach day.
🌊 Coquina Beach (Our go-to destination!)
A Beach Day Done Right! Coquina Beach stands out because it offers more than just beautiful sand and water. It combines accessibility, natural beauty, family-friendly amenities, and authentic island atmosphere into one seamless experience.
It’s not just a beach—it’s a destination where memories are made, sunsets are celebrated, and the pace of life slows just enough for you to truly unwind.
Visitors appreciate the convenience of:
- Free parking
- Beach café
- Outdoor showers
- Lifeguards on duty (seasonally)
- Picnic tables and grills
- Beach volleyball courts
- A scenic multi-use path for walking and biking
- 🛍️ The Coquina Beach Market
From fall through spring, the beach transforms into a vibrant hub of local culture during the Coquina Beach Market. Browse handcrafted jewelry, island-inspired art, fresh produce, and unique gifts from local vendors. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the community while enjoying live music and ocean breezes.
It’s a beach that makes it easy to stay all day.
View their website https://www.bradentongulfislands.com/listing/coquina-beach/ for current information and upcoming events.
🚲 Explore Like a Local
One of the island’s most appealing qualities is its charming, small-town atmosphere. If you’re staying off the island, consider parking in nearby Bradenton and taking the ferry over for a convenient and affordable roundtrip fare of approximately $10 per adult. It’s a smart way to bypass local traffic while enjoying 50 minutes of scenic coastal views—and you may even spot dolphins along the way. https://www.bradentongulfislands.com/gulf-islands-ferry
Once you arrive on Anna Maria Island, you’ll find a variety of convenient transportation options to explore with ease. In addition to walking, visitors can rent bicycles or golf carts, or take advantage of the island’s complimentary trolley service. These street-legal options make it simple—and enjoyable—to experience the island from end to end.
Be sure to spend time on Pine Avenue in the city of Anna Maria, where charming boutiques, local art galleries, and fresh seafood restaurants create a vibrant yet relaxed coastal atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to shop, dine, and soak in the island’s timeless appeal.
🍤 Savor the Local Flavor
No trip is complete without indulging in fresh Gulf seafood. From grouper sandwiches to stone crab claws (in season), the island’s restaurants pride themselves on simple, flavorful dishes served with a sunset view. Pair your meal with a tropical cocktail, and you’ve officially embraced island time.
🌅 End Every Day with a Sunset
On Anna Maria Island, sunsets aren’t just beautiful—they’re an event. Locals and visitors gather nightly along the shore as the sky explodes in hues of orange, pink, and gold. It’s the perfect reminder to slow down and savor the moment.
Ready to Experience Anna Maria Island?
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a seamless blend of both,
Anna Maria Island delivers an exceptional mix of natural beauty and authentic coastal charm. From pristine beaches and turquoise waters to its welcoming island atmosphere, every visit feels both refreshing and memorable.
Pack your flip-flops, bring your sense of curiosity, and prepare to experience one of Florida’s most captivating coastal escapes.
$ave on Stay. Spend on Play! 
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