Anna Maria Island

Discovering Anna Maria Island: A Tranquil Escape North of Siesta Key

About 25 miles north of Siesta Key – approximately a one-hour drive – lies Anna Maria Island, a picturesque barrier island off the coast of Bradenton. Overlooking Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, this island is a cherished destination for many Floridians. Spanning 7 miles, Anna Maria Island features a continuous stretch of wide, soft, white sand beaches.

Beaches: North to South

The northern beaches of the island, including Bean Point Beach and North Holmes Beach, offer a quieter experience compared to the busier central and southern beaches. Lifeguards are on duty daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., ensuring safety across 11 lifeguard towers from Manatee Public Beach in the middle of the island to Coquina Beach at the southern end.

Island Attractions

Beyond the beaches, Anna Maria Island has several noteworthy attractions. One unique photo opportunity is the remains of the Anna Maria Island Jail, built without windows in 1927 and ceasing operation in 1940 after a fire. This historic site is part of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum, which showcases the island's rich history. The museum operates from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from January to March, and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. from April to December.

Pine Avenue: A Shopper's Delight

Pine Avenue, another prominent attraction, is lined with charming shops, boutiques, markets, and restaurants. It's an ideal location for a leisurely stroll away from the beach. A popular spot on Pine Avenue is The Donut Experiment, where visitors can personalize their donuts with a variety of icings and toppings.

Visitor Experiences and Parking Tips

Visitor Feedback

Recent visitors to Anna Maria Island have expressed delight over the uncrowded beaches, the soft white sand, and the crystal-clear waters. Some fortunate visitors even reported sightings of dolphins close to the shore.

Parking Information

Parking on Anna Maria Island can be challenging, so it's important to heed parking signs carefully. The island offers four free public parking lots: Anna Maria Bayfront Park near the Anna Maria City Pier, Coquina Beach, Manatee County Public Beach, and Cortez Beach. Off-street parking is allowed unless otherwise indicated by signage. To avoid parking tickets, do not park on the sidewalk, face the wrong direction, park at an angle, or park within 30 feet of a stop sign or 20 feet of an intersection. Note that parking citations can be issued to the same vehicle every two hours.