Ultimate Guide To Anna Maria Island Florida Beaches

UPDATED: July 2024. If you’re looking for a peaceful and picturesque getaway in Florida for a beach vacation, Anna Maria Island might just be the perfect destination. 

But where exactly is it located? This guide will give you all the information you need to find this hidden gem and start planning your trip.

Anna Maria Island is a beautiful and unique destination located off the coast of Florida. With its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this island each year.

Discover the hidden gem of Anna Maria Island

The city of Anna Maria is full of charm and offers its visitors plenty to do. This island in the Gulf of Mexico is renowned for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Thank you for reading this post. Don't forget to subscribe! This way you never miss an update, travel deals, discounts and more!! Subscribe to the right------>

Miles of shoreline to explore along with plenty of activities to enjoy and boutiques and restaurants to art galleries and nightlife to enjoy in the evenings.

Where is Anna Maria Island?

Anna Maria Island lies off the Gulf Coast between Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay, with Bradenton Beach at its north end and Holmes Beach in the center. 

This barrier island is located on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere.

The island is seven miles long and less than a mile wide, making it a small and intimate destination perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Location and geography of Anna Maria Island.

Anna Maria Island is located on the west coast of Florida, in Manatee County. It is situated between the Gulf of Mexico to the west and Tampa Bay to the north.

The island is connected to the mainland by two bridges, the Manatee Avenue Bridge and the Cortez Bridge. The island is approximately 7 miles long and less than a mile wide, with a total area of 7.5 square miles.

Its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Anna Maria Island has something for everyone.

How to get to Anna Maria Island.

Getting to Anna Maria Island is easy and convenient. The island can be accessed by car, bus or plane, with the closest airports located in Tampa and Sarasota.

Anna Maria Island is conveniently located near two of Florida’s major airports, Tampa St. Petersburg International Airport (TPA) and Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ).

Both airports offer direct flights to many domestic and international destinations, with TPA offering more extensive options.

For those visiting the center of the sunshine state, the island is a bit over 2 hours from Orlando International Airport.

From these airports, visitors can access Anna Maria Island via rental car, taxi or shuttle services.

There are also some local airports located on the Island, such as Manatee County Airport (MCF) and Arthur Dunn Airpark (X39). These airports offer flights for smaller planes and private aircraft only. 

TIP: Once you arrive at the island, you can take advantage of the free trolley service that operates daily between various stops throughout the island including beaches, shopping centers, restaurants and more.

Exploring this beautiful island

Anna Maria Island is a hidden gem in Florida that offers a variety of activities and sights for visitors to enjoy. Some popular things to do include visiting the beautiful beaches, exploring the local art galleries and boutiques, and taking a sunset sailboat tour.

For those who love the outdoors, your search is over as there are also opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. And don’t forget to try some of the delicious seafood at the island’s many restaurants!

One gorgeous island that is seven miles long with an average width of just over 500 feet across. There are some areas that are much narrower than others, creating unique coves. These coves are perfect for exploring by boat, kayak or paddle board.

The entire island has been designated as a wildlife refuge due to its abundance of native species including sea turtles, manatees, dolphins, osprey birds and bald eagles among other creatures who call Anna Maria home year round.  The perfect place for nature lovers.

Top Destinations To Visit

Are you ready to explore the island beaches with its waving palm trees and old Florida vibes? Let’s dig in!

Beaches

That’s right. This island has some of the best beaches in the city of Bradenton Beach as well as the Bradenton area.

Coquina Beach

This is truly a perfect beach and a great place for visitors to Anna Maria Island to begin. The beach is known for its white sand, crystal clear waters, and marine life including bottlenose dolphins.

Visitors can take a walk out to the Coquina Beach Jetty and fish, or enjoy relaxing on the beach and watching the waves hit the shore. You will find this beach on Gulf Drive.

Bean Point

Bean Point Beach is the place for anyone looking for a quiet and peaceful experience. This beach offers stunning views of the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy the pristine beaches, clear waters, and picturesque sunsets.

Bean Point Beach is also home to some unique wildlife, such as loggerhead turtles, which can often be spotted in their natural habitats near the shoreline.  This beach is on the northern end of the island.

Cortez Beach

This beach is also sometimes called 3 Piers Beach. Absolutely beautiful and a good place for those that prefer to be away from the crowds. Also located on Gulf Drive and wonderful for a romantic getaway.

Manatee Public Beach

Manatee Beach is located in Holmes Beach also on Gulf Drive. This is a popular spot on the island with fun things to do both on and off the beach.

One of the public beaches in the area with restrooms, gift shop, wheelchairs, volleyball courts, picnic tables and more. Perfect escape to white sands during the warm summer months.

Bayfront Park

Bayfront Park is on the Northern tip of Anna Maria Island, From this part of the island you have a view of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and Egmont Key.

It is a great beach for kids to burn off energy and for parents to relax. Keep an eye out for dolphins, as they are often spotted from this beach. 

Longboat Key

One more beach I do want to mention is Beer Can Island at Longboat Key. This island is in the Gulf and got its name from those that partied on the beach in the past and left their beer cans on the island.

The best way to get to the island is to park at Coquina Beach (see above), you can walk across the bridge that connects Longboat Key to Anna Maria Island. One of the best things about this island is the scenery.

Take photos, relax, hike and more. Remember to pack out anything you bring on the island. Keep it simple. Pack in, pack out.

Other Favorite Things To Do

Historic Bridge Street has a little bit of everything for everyone. Restaurants, live music, ice cream, and shopping. This is also where you will find Anna Maria Oyster Bar.

Rod & Reel Pier is also located near the Historic Bridge Street. Look for the rustic hand-painted sign.

Anna Maria City Pier is over on S. Bay Boulevard and was built in the early 1900s. That’s right. This pier is over 100 years old. Perfect place to see the Skyway Bridge and views of Tampa Bay.

Where to eat on Anna Maria Island

There are several fantastic options, especially if you are looking to get away from boring chain restaurants. Check out:

City Pier Restaurant & Grill. Located on the Anna Maria Island Pier.

Check all options for restaurants here: Anna Maria Island Restaurants

Other Favorite Things To Do

Historic Bridge Street has a little bit of everything for everyone. Restaurants, live music, ice cream, and shopping. This is also where you will find Anna Maria Oyster Bar.

Rod & Reel Pier is also located near the Historic Bridge Street. Look for the rustic hand-painted sign.

Anna Maria City Pier is over on S. Bay Boulevard and was built in the early 1900s. That’s right. This pier is over 100 years old. Perfect place to see the Skyway Bridge and views of Tampa Bay.

Where to eat on Anna Maria Island

There are several fantastic options, especially if you are looking to get away from boring chain restaurants. Check out:

City Pier Restaurant & Grill. Located on the Anna Maria Island Pier.

Also be sure to stop at Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe right on the sand as well as Hurricane Hanks for those that prefer a less fussy meal. Great for the whole family.

Tips for planning your trip to Anna Maria Island.

Planning a trip to Anna Maria Island is easy with a little bit of research and preparation. First, decide on the best time of year to visit based on your preferences for weather and crowds.

Next, book your accommodations in advance, whether it be a hotel, vacation rental, or camping spot. Then, plan out your activities and make reservations for any tours or restaurants you want to visit.

Finally, don’t forget to pack for the beach and bring comfortable shoes for exploring the island!

Where to stay on Anna Maria Island, Florida?

You have several options for accommodations on the island, including hotels or vacation rentals. If you have never been on the island, I recommend you check with one of the local rental companies for more information.

You can also book at several Anna Maria Island hotels, including several beach resorts. I have put links below to make it easy for you.

What are you waiting for? This island is a hop, skip and a jump from Tampa International Airport. With average temps of 84 degrees in the summer on the sparkling Gulf of Mexico, this will be one of your most memorable getaways.

The following links may help you plan your Anna Maria Island Florida Beach Vacation: