Anna Maria Island is Florida's best-kept secret (though it's becoming less so). This 7-mile barrier island on the Manatee County coast offers something increasingly rare in Florida — a completely un-commercialized old-Florida beach experience with no chain hotels, no high-rise condos, and no beachside strip malls.
Why Anna Maria Island Is Special
The island has strict development regulations that limit building heights to 35 feet — enforced since the 1980s. The result is a time-capsule beach community that looks remarkably similar to how Florida beach towns looked 50 years ago, with charming cottage rentals, local seafood restaurants, and a pace of life that hasn't caught up with Florida's development frenzy.
The Best Beaches
Bean Point (North End)
The most spectacular and least visited beach on the island. A short walk through a residential neighborhood leads to a secluded beach at the island's northern tip where Tampa Bay meets the Gulf — perfect for sunset watching.
Manatee Public Beach
The most accessible beach on the island's middle section, with parking, restrooms, and a nearby restaurant. Good for families.
Coquina Beach (South End)
The most popular beach, with the most parking and facilities. Lifeguards on duty, volleyball courts, picnic areas, and concessions.
Best Restaurants on Anna Maria Island
- The Sandbar Restaurant — Beachfront dining institution, spectacular Gulf views
- Sign of the Mermaid — Casual island seafood with patio dining
- Gulf Drive Cafe — Beloved locals' breakfast and lunch spot
- Skinny's Place — Old-Florida diner, a true time capsule
- Duffy's Tavern — Island institution for decades
Things to Do Beyond the Beach
- Anna Maria City Pier — Restored historic fishing pier with views
- Pine Avenue — Charming collection of boutiques and galleries
- Kayak and paddleboard rentals — Available from multiple island operators
- Fishing charters — Half-day and full-day options from the pier area
- Island Segway tours — Guided Segway tours of the island
Getting to Anna Maria Island
Parking is the island's biggest challenge. With no parking garages and limited street/lot parking, weekends in season see cars lined up on the bridges by 9 AM.
- From Sarasota / SRQ Airport: 30-45 min, from $55
- From Bradenton: 20-30 min, from $45
- From Tampa / TPA Airport: 60-80 min, from $90
- From Clearwater: 75-90 min, from $90
A private transfer eliminates all parking stress and lets you arrive and depart exactly when you choose.
Perfect Day Itinerary
- 8:00 AM: Arrive at Coquina Beach, claim your spot
- 10:00 AM: Walk to Manatee Public Beach, explore the shops on Pine Ave
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at The Sandbar Restaurant (go early — waits can be long)
- 2:00 PM: Kayak rental or fishing charter
- 4:30 PM: Drive/walk to Bean Point for sunset
- 6:30 PM: Dinner at Sign of the Mermaid
- 7:30 PM: Private transfer back