Sarasota
Anna Maria Island
A relaxed Gulf Coast island day with beautiful beaches and a slower pace.
Why Go
Anna Maria Island is a low-rise barrier island in Manatee County, south of the Tampa Bay area near Bradenton — genuinely outside Tampa Bay, and worth the drive for it. No building rises more than a few stories, and its three connected communities move at a village pace. A free public trolley runs the island's length, connecting its beaches without needing a car once you've arrived.
Help Me Choose
At the island's northern tip, with no formal parking lot and minimal signage — it draws far fewer visitors than the main beaches. It's the one spot where the bay meets the Gulf, known locally for open, uncrowded scenery and sunsets rather than amenities.
The island's main, most amenity-rich beach — café/concessions, restrooms, showers, a playground and lifeguards, plus a direct stop on the free island trolley. The social, high-traffic hub of the island.
The largest beach on the island, near Bradenton Beach — ample free parking, lifeguards, restrooms, showers, changing cabanas, picnic pavilions and grills. Well suited for groups or a longer stay.
MAX Insider Tip — The free Anna Maria Island Trolley runs the length of the island, so once you're there, moving between Coquina Beach, Manatee Public Beach and the northern tip doesn't require moving the car.
Turn it into an easy day trip.Enjoy the island — we'll handle the drive.
Plan Your Ride