Whether you’re ready for an energetic swim in the clear turquoise water or simply want to relax in warm, white sand, you’re in luck when you stay in our beachfront accommodations on Anna Maria Island!
Here’s a rundown of the best public Anna Maria Island beaches you’re sure to love!
Manatee Public Beach
Located right next to Mello on the Beach in the middle of the island, Manatee Public Beach lets you hit the sand mere steps from your Anna Maria Island accommodation. The wide beach is perfect for lounging, while the water is shallow and warm. Join one of the beach volleyball games for fun! Grab a bite to eat at the Anna Maria Island Cafe, or grill and eat at one of the available picnic tables!
Bean Point Beach
Set at the northernmost tip of the island, Bean Point Beach is perfect if you prefer a wide-open beach in a more remote setting. It is perfect for sunsets and offers the only view where the bay joins the Gulf of Mexico. Parking is limited; most beachgoers either walk from Manatee Beach (seven miles round trip) or ride a bicycle there. You can access the beach at North Shore Drive, where it meets Fern Street and where it meets Gladiolus Street.
Coquina Beach
At the southern end of the island, Coquina Beach is perfect for a family beach trip. The water is warm, clear, and shallow, with plenty of lifeguards on duty. The long and slender strip of sand makes it easy to reach the water, and the large lot fits plenty of cars. You’ll find grills, picnic tables, nearby play structures, and a lively market to explore next to the beach several days a week.
Cortez Beach
Looking for calmer things to do on Anna Maria Island? Try Cortez Beach, one of the quieter beaches on the south side. Three concrete pier-like structures extend into the water, providing calm and quiet water that is perfect for swimming. Beyond the piers, you’ll find large waves that offer the best surfing on Anna Maria Island. The piers are also the ideal place to fish. Parking is limited and located directly off Gulf Drive, so grab a spot if you see one available.
Bradenton Beach
At centrally-located Bradenton Beach, enjoy a beautiful sandy beach only steps away from the fun shops and restaurants of Bradenton Beach. Don’t miss the Beach House Restaurant, which is one of the best places for waterfront dining on the island! The beach is lively, and you will find plenty of people around. Parking can be limited, but one easy option is to park at Coquina or Manatee beaches and take the free trolley around the island.
Holmes Beach
Located on the southern side of the island, Holmes Beach is one of the quietest beaches on the island and doesn’t even show up on many of the maps. You can access the beach on multiple side streets in the residential neighborhood that fronts it, and it’s generally easy to find parking. The beach offers plenty of sand and warm water, perfect for swimming.
Plan Your Anna Maria Island Vacation
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Bayfront Park
Bayfront Park is located on the bay side of the island and offers ample shady green space, play structures, and room to run, along with picnic tables and grills. The beach itself is somewhat narrow, although it offers plenty of room for swimming. Ample parking is available. You can see beautiful views of the Anna Maria Island Pier and, farther off, the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Tampa Bay.
Your Anna Maria Island Vacation
Mello on the Beach is one of the best places to stay on Anna Maria Island. We have a variety of freshly renovated mods to choose from, with colorful kitchenettes (all supplies included) and comfortable living spaces. Relax poolside, grill and chill at the BBQs and common firepit, or spend some time snorkeling in some of the prettiest waters around, or check out the other things to do in Anna Maria Island. Check out all our Anna Maria Island beachfront rentals and book your stay today!
