Anna Maria FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Anna Maria, Florida.
1. Bean Point
SERENE NORTH ISLAND BEACH
Bean Point is a tranquil beach located at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, offering warm, clear waters ideal for snorkeling and breathtaking sunset views. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching and walking along the wide stretch of sand that appears during low tide. The limited parking enhances the privacy of this scenic spot, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking a quieter beach experience.
2. Coquina Beach
WHITE SANDS AND SHELLS
Coquina Beach features pristine white sands and ample shade, creating an ideal environment for shelling, romantic walks, and dolphin watching. The beach maintains a less crowded, serene atmosphere compared to other beaches in the area, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty. From its shores, beachgoers can enjoy scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico and potentially spot various marine wildlife.
3. Manatee Public Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY GULF SWIMMING
Manatee Public Beach offers a relaxed environment with clear, warm Gulf waters perfect for swimming and various water activities. Beachcombers can discover an abundance of shells and sand dollars along the shoreline, adding to the beach's appeal. The combination of excellent facilities and natural beauty makes this beach a popular destination for families and beach enthusiasts alike.
4. Holmes Beach
TURQUOISE WATERS AND DINING
Holmes Beach delights visitors with its fine white sand and stunning turquoise waters that create a picturesque tropical setting. The beach area features all-you-can-eat dining options nearby, perfect for refueling after a day of swimming and sunbathing. Families particularly enjoy the calm waters for swimming and the spacious areas for picnic outings, with the added bonus of spectacular sunset views in the evening.
5. Anna Maria City Pier
HISTORIC WATERFRONT LANDMARK
The Anna Maria City Pier is a historic landmark featuring live music, casual dining options, and a fascinating marine life museum. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunset views while spotting dolphins, sea rays, and turtles in the surrounding waters. The pier serves as both an educational and recreational destination, providing insight into the local marine ecosystem while offering a relaxing atmosphere.
6. Anna Maria Island Historical Museum
ISLAND'S RICH HERITAGE
The Anna Maria Island Historical Museum is a charming treasure conveniently located on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria, showcasing the island's fascinating history through well-planned displays. Knowledgeable volunteers enhance the visitor experience by providing detailed information about the exhibits and answering questions about the island's past. The museum offers an educational yet enjoyable experience for those interested in learning about the cultural and historical development of Anna Maria Island.
7. Coquina Baywalk
SCENIC NATURE TRAIL
Coquina Baywalk offers a safe and scenic nature trail that extends north to Bean Point at the tip of Anna Maria Island and southward along the coastline. The trail allows visitors to experience the island's natural beauty up close while providing opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography. Walking the Baywalk gives travelers a unique perspective of the island's diverse ecosystems and stunning coastal landscapes.
8. Bridge Street Pier
CHARMING WATERFRONT PROMENADE
Bridge Street Pier serves as a popular gathering spot for visitors waiting for tables at nearby restaurants like Anna Maria Oyster Bar (AMOB). The pier provides a pleasant walking area with views of the water and easy access to the vibrant Bridge Street district. Visitors can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while taking in the coastal scenery and observing local marine life.
9. Bradenton Beach City Pier
PEACEFUL BAYSIDE FISHING
Bradenton Beach City Pier offers visitors a tranquil spot for fishing, sightseeing, and enjoying beautiful views of the bay. The pier extends into the calm waters, providing an excellent vantage point for watching boats and spotting marine life. Its convenient location in Bradenton Beach makes it an easy addition to any island itinerary, perfect for a morning stroll or evening relaxation.
10. Cortez Beach
CLEAN SANDS AND SUNSHINE
Cortez Beach features crystal-clear water and abundant sunshine, creating an ideal setting for beachgoers seeking a pristine natural environment. The sand remains clean and largely free of trash and excessive sea debris, enhancing the overall beach experience. Visitors appreciate the unspoiled beauty and well-maintained condition of this picturesque stretch of coastline.
11. Bridge Street
QUAINT ISLAND SHOPPING
Bridge Street embodies the quiet, relaxing atmosphere that defines Anna Maria Island, offering a perfect match to the island's laid-back character. Visitors can explore charming shops, restaurants, and cafes along this picturesque street. The area provides a pleasant alternative to beach activities while maintaining the island's unhurried and peaceful ambiance.
12. Pine Avenue
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Pine Avenue serves as Anna Maria Island's charming shopping district, lined with quaint shops and art galleries showcasing local crafts and unique merchandise. Visitors can spend hours browsing through the various stores while enjoying the historic architecture and island atmosphere. The avenue provides a perfect blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences in the heart of Anna Maria.
13. Robinson Preserve
COASTAL WILDERNESS TRAILS
Robinson Preserve features scenic trails that wind through lush mangrove forests and wetlands teeming with diverse wildlife. Visitors can hike, bike, or kayak through this natural sanctuary while observing native birds, plants, and other Florida species in their natural habitat. The preserve offers a refreshing contrast to beach activities, allowing travelers to experience the region's rich ecological diversity.
14. Egmont Key State Park
HISTORIC ISLAND GETAWAY
Egmont Key State Park is a pristine barrier island accessible only by boat, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore historic ruins and untouched beaches. The island combines natural beauty with historical significance, featuring an old lighthouse and remnants of Fort Dade from the Spanish-American War era. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing in this protected sanctuary located a short boat ride from Anna Maria Island.
15. Busch Gardens
THRILLING THEME PARK EXPERIENCE
Busch Gardens Tampa offers an exciting combination of thrilling roller coasters, live entertainment, and an impressive collection of exotic animals from around the world. Visitors can experience heart-pounding rides like SheiKra and Montu before exploring naturalistic animal habitats featuring tigers, gorillas, and giraffes. The park makes for an excellent day trip from Anna Maria Island, providing a complete entertainment package for families and thrill-seekers alike.