Anna Maria Island Beaches Guide: Tour the Top 6 Spots

Anna Maria Island’s beaches in Florida offer clean sand paired with colorful waters, all found amid rare remaining coastal forests. This warm-weather destination measures 7 miles, and the island sits between the Gulf of Mexico and Florida’s peninsula. Beyond the beach, find challenging golf courses and natural settings to catch breathtaking sunsets. Whether on the beaches or riding bikes into town, here’s a guide to all the Anna Maria Island beaches.

Top 6 Anna Maria Island Beaches for Sunshine and Fun

Escape to Anna Maria Beach

Due to Anna Maria Beach’s remote and tranquil location, this beach does not provide facilities. However, visitors should visit the Sandbar Restaurant, which offers dining and seating right on the beach. From this spot, see see Tampa Bay, the Skyway Bridge and St. Petersburg, another top Florida destination.

Anna Maria Beach also ranks among the best places on the island to catch the sunset, as it extends the tip of the island itself. While remote, it is only a bike ride away from accommodations and attractions.

Meet Bradenton Beach Locals

Located in the little island city of Bradenton Beach, this spot can be accessed from most streets in the town. Bradenton Beach is home to 1,500 residents, and visitors will find several outdoor activities to keep busy.

Fish from the popular City Pier, or take a guided boat or fishing trip from a local guide. The area also offers several public-access points, casual dining, bars, shops and more.

Catch a Wave at Coquina Beach

Located at the southern end of Anna Maria Island, Coquina Beach is the longest stretch of beach. See surfers who flock to this area and old piers that divide sections of the beach. Families will find full-service facilities, including life guards, restrooms, showers, concessions, a playground and picnic tables. Those looking to explore should walk the footpaths and boardwalks. This spot is also known for dolphin sightings.

Enjoy Cortez Beach’s Tranquility

Calm waters and a light surf welcome families to spend the day at Cortez Beach. Kids enjoy skim boarding, building sandcastles and flying kites. This beach also has biking and hiking trails, and a picnic area family meals. Visitors also enjoy the area’s scenery, which includes tall trees and grass mixed with sand dunes and sea oats. Parking is free, however other facilities are not available.

Relax on Holmes Beach

Spend the day basking in the sun, or enjoy a picnic with loved ones at Holmes Beach. Located in a residential neighborhood, this beach may serve as the perfect place for a morning stroll with a cup of coffee or a run for daily exercise. Holmes Beach does not offer facilities, however its location has proximity to restaurants, attractions and shops.

Get Active at Manatee Beach

The full-service Manatee Beach features free parking, lifeguards, restrooms, a playground, concessions, picnic tables and showers. Guests should plan to arrive early if visiting Manatee Beach, as it’s one of the most popular beaches on the island. Frequent visitors rave about the cleanliness and high-quality restaurants that serve fresh local cuisine. Volleyball courts, live music and a bar accommodates everyone.

Want to visit Anna Maria Island beaches? Find some of the best restaurants in Anna Maria Island. Then select a beachfront vacation rental in Anna Maria Island.