Top 10 Anna Maria Island Attractions to Fully Immerse Yourself in Island Culture
Stretching seven miles long, Anna Maria Island sits just west of Bradenton in Florida’s Gulf Coast region. This barrier island has some of the state’s most beautiful beaches, and these are definitely the best attractions in Anna Maria Island.
However, there’s more to do here than just the beach. Here are some of the top Anna Maria Island attractions to consider on your next visit.
Visit the Beach
An island vacation isn’t complete without multiple trips to the beach, and Anna Maria Island has several for you to choose from. In fact, the best attractions in Anna Maria Island are its pristine beaches. Here are the top options for a relaxing oceanside experience.
1. Bean Point
793 N Shore Dr., Anna Maria, FL 34216
With white sands touching turquoise waters, Bean Point is an ideal spot for snorkeling and soaking up some sun. You’ll find a wide variety of bird life here, too, and low tide provides expansive sand access.
You won’t, however, find crowds and loud beach parties, as this is a quieter area. This beach provides breathtaking sunsets as well. Keep in mind that the parking is limited, so arrive early and plan to spend the day. Bean Point sits on the northern tip of the island.
2. Coquina Beach
2650 Gulf Dr., Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
At Coquina Beach, the sand takes a golden hue, and shell hunters find plenty of interesting treasures on this shoreline. With lifeguards, ample parking, and options for dining on the beach, Coquina Beach is another great choice for your oceanside day. There’s also a playground on this beach for younger kids.
If you take a boat out on the water from this location, you just might spot some dolphins. Consider visiting on Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday when you’ll be able to enjoy the Coquina Beach Market.
3. Manatee Public Beach
4000 State Road 64 and Gulf Dr., Holmes Beach, FL 34217
White sands stretch endlessly through Manatee Beach. Here, clear water provides excellent underwater viewing for snorkeling, and lifeguards are on patrol daily. This public beach has several facilities, such as grills, picnic areas, sand volleyball courts, and shower stations, to make your visit enjoyable.
A beachside playground provides additional areas for kids, and a small concession stand offers opportunities for snacks during your visit.
Watersports and Boat Tours
Another benefit of visiting Anna Maria Island is its many watersports and chartered boat tours. Whether you want to head out on the ocean to fish or simply want to try your hand at paddle boarding, you’ll find an option here.
4. Sea Rocket Parasailing Adventures
402 Church Ave., Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Take a guided parasailing trip around Anna Maria Island. This adventure tour gives you a bird's-eye view of the water. You’ll receive safety instructions to properly parasail, then head out on the boat to take to the skies.
This tour is an adrenaline junkie’s dream. The parasailing adventure takes you past Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, and Longboat Key, allowing you to experience all three islands in one tour.
5. Florida Blue Adventures Kayak Tour
1507 Gulf Dr. S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Kayak past peaceful manatees in mangrove tunnels on a guided kayak ecotour with Florida Blue Adventures. The guides are well-known for their ability to find manatees, and they also provide kayak instruction for those who are new to the sport. In addition to manatees, this tour gives you a chance to see birds, fish, and other wildlife that call Anna Maria Island home.
All gear is provided with your tour, and the waters are calm and ideal for beginners.
6. Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours
5325 Marina Dr., Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Among the top-rated attractions in Anna Maria Island is the Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tour, your best chance at seeing dolphins in their natural habitat. Your tour guide will take you to dolphin hot spots, providing exceptional viewing of the playful creatures. Many tours also see manatees or sea turtles during their visit.
You can even choose a sunset tour to capture the sunset colors as well as time with the dolphins. The boats hold just 18 people, providing a more intimate experience than other larger tours.
History and Nature Attractions
While the top Anna Maria Island attractions are the beaches, you’ll also appreciate the local natural parks and historic sites. These hidden gems let you experience the best of the island and what makes it truly unique.
7. Anna Maria Island Historical Museum and Mangrove Walk
402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, FL 34216
Located on Pine Avenue near the many shops of the district, Anna Maria Island Historical Museum provides a glimpse into the history of the area. This attraction is small, but since it limits guests to five at a time, you can get an intimate experience as you learn about the area’s history.
Volunteers provide background for the displays in the museum, and you can request a docent-led tour for free. The property also has a nature trail, the Mangrove Walk, that you can explore, and everything is free.
8. Historic Green Village Anna Maria Island
501-503 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Stroll through the historic cottages and homes of Historic Green Village to get a taste of the architectural history of the region. Several of the houses are over 100 years old. Today, the village still holds residential homes, but it also has restaurants and shops you can explore.
Throughout its history, the village focused on being environmentally friendly, and today it stands as one of only 100 places across the globe that have achieved a net zero environmental impact.
Shopping Options
When it’s time to do a little shopping, Anna Maria Island has a few destinations that aren’t to be missed. Here are the top shopping centers and shops on the island you’ll want to hit for that perfect souvenir.
9. Bridge Street
Filled with trendy boutiques and gift shops, dining options, and a surf shop, Bridge Street is the ultimate shopping destination on the island. You’ll want to spend an afternoon here, meandering through the shops and eateries.
This area is also home to a miniature golf course and two boat tour companies. Finish your evening with a stroll along the historic Bridge Street Pier, where you can fish or just watch the aquatic life swim below you.
10. Pine Avenue
Pine Avenue is another shopping destination on the island. Known as the “Greenest Main Street” on the island, this area is filled with eco-friendly businesses. It’s also a historic area with colorful buildings, embracing the island vibe and history perfectly. Stroll through boutiques and art galleries in search of the perfect gift, grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants, and then end your evening looking out over the water on Anna Maria City Pier.
No matter which of these Anna Maria Island attractions you choose, you'll want the perfect Island condo to base your trip from. Our partners at The One Hundred Collection, Mainsail Vacation Rentals, will help you find the ideal place to stay as you plan your visit.
