Bradenton Beach is the Gulf town beach on the south-central stretch of Anna Maria Island, steps from historic Bridge Street. Expect restrooms, showers, lifeguards in season, and free or easy public parking near 10th Street / Gulf Drive. The pier and Bridge Street restaurants make it a full stop, not just a swim. Coquina Beach’s bigger county lot sits just south if this strip is packed. Read more…
Bean Point Beach
Bean Point is the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, where the Gulf meets Tampa Bay. Parking is limited along N Shore Drive, and amenities are thin compared with Manatee or Coquina — expect a quieter strip and fewer facilities. Good for a walk or a low-key swim when you want space; bring what you need. The busier county parks sit farther south on Gulf Drive. Read more…
Anna Maria Beach is the town’s main Gulf access near Spring Avenue on Anna Maria Island — low-rise, free parking, and a short walk to the village shops and cafes. Lifeguards and restrooms are typically on duty in season. It is quieter than Manatee Beach or Coquina farther south, and it faces the open Gulf (unlike Bayfront Park on the bay). Come early on weekends; street and lot spots fill. Read more…
Anna Maria Bayfront Park
Anna Maria Bayfront Park faces Tampa Bay, not the open Gulf — the bay side of the City of Anna Maria at 316 N Bay Blvd. You get picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and free parking, with views toward the Sunshine Skyway. For Gulf swimming, walk or drive a few blocks west to Anna Maria Beach or Bean Point. This park is the bayfront stop for picnics and calm water, not a barrier-island swim day. Read more…