Blog / Beach Day Done Right: Holmes Beach, Coquina, Bean Point and Longboat Key

Beaches · April 24, 2026

Beach Day Done Right: Holmes Beach, Coquina, Bean Point and Longboat Key

By the Vacation Thyme team

Four beaches, four different personalities. This is where to go for calm water, shells and shark teeth, quiet sand, and what to bring along. Distances are from Coral Cabana.

Holmes Beach (Manatee Public Beach), about 6 miles

The easiest family day on the island. Manatee Public Beach has restrooms, showers, lifeguards, a cafe and bar, a playground and a trolley stop, and the water is usually calm for kids. The address is 4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach.

Coquina Beach, about 9.5 miles

A favorite for shell and shark-tooth hunters. Look for horse conch, tulip and murex shells along the shoreline, and enjoy the shady pines. It has lifeguards daily, restrooms, a concession, a playground, pavilions and a large lot. The address is 2650 Gulf Dr, Bradenton Beach.

Bean Point, about 10 miles

The quiet one. Bean Point is at the north tip of the island and is known for peaceful sand and shelling, including conch, lightning whelks and the occasional shark tooth. It has no restrooms, parking lot or lifeguards, so go prepared. The nearest restrooms are at Bayfront Park.

Longboat Key Beach, about 13 miles

Pristine sand and turquoise water. There are restrooms and a playground at Bayfront Park across the street, and the beach is not lifeguarded.

What to bring

We include a rolling cooler, a wagon, four beach chairs, an umbrella and beach toys at Coral Cabana, so you can pack lighter. Add reef-safe sunscreen, water, snacks, a bag for shells and a towel for everyone.

Before you go

• Check the flag conditions on the Manatee County beach conditions page.
• Manatee County Beach Patrol can be reached at 941-749-3500. In an emergency, call 911.
• Public lots fill early on busy days, so plan to arrive in the morning.
• See our Local Guides for restaurants, coffee, shops and more near each beach.