Bradenton & Anna Maria Island

The northernmost tip of the island where the Gulf meets Tampa Bay. Our pick for quiet, and known for shelling, including conch and lightning whelks, plus the occasional shark tooth. No restrooms, parking lot or lifeguards, so bring everything you need. Nearest restrooms: Bayfront Park.

Known for shells and shark teeth, from horse conch to tulips. The island's longest stretch of sand, with the largest waterfront parking lot, lifeguards, restrooms, a playground and shady pines.

Our go-to with kids. A restaurant and bar on site, a tall lifeguard station, a playground, restrooms, a trolley and bus stop right there, and a beach-combing machine.

Not technically a Gulf beach, but a beautiful bay-side spot that's great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and spotting dolphins. Palma Sola Causeway Park has pavilions, picnic tables and grills, but the county does not list restrooms.

Quiet sands. Public beach access is across from Bayfront Park, which has restrooms and a playground.

An outdoor, beach-town-style stand with smoothies, cold brew and breakfast bites. Loved for its relaxed island vibe.

A waterfront coffee shop with smoothies, espresso and pastries. Reviewers love the marina views.

A French-inspired bakery with excellent pastries and espresso drinks in a refined but friendly setting. Very popular for breakfast.

A late-night kava and coffee bar with a relaxed, artsy vibe, friendly staff and a community feel.

A stylish café with espresso, açai bowls and light brunch, plus outdoor seating on Pine Avenue.

A small-batch specialty roaster with a minimalist modern look, excellent espresso and friendly service.

A boutique and café with home goods, clothing and gifts, plus Foxi Coffee, in a warm coastal-inspired setting made for shopping, sipping and gathering.

An eclectic, artsy shop inside a quirky gift store selling coffee, wine, craft beer, smoothies and pastries.

Guided dolphin eco tours and sunset cruises from the Waterline Marina in Holmes Beach, plus longer Egmont Key trips. A good one for kids and adults.

Bike, e-bike, kayak, paddleboard and golf cart rentals on Pine Avenue, plus baby gear and beach chairs and umbrellas.

Electric bike rentals for covering the island on two wheels.

Rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the mangroves and calm bay waters. The bay side of AMI is perfect for beginners - flat water, abundant wildlife, and you're likely to spot manatees in winter.

One of the top marine aquariums in Florida and a short drive to Sarasota. Excellent for kids, and the shark tank and manatee rehabilitation program are genuinely impressive. Great rainy day option.

Beautiful park along the Manatee River with mangrove trails, kayak launches, and a beach with incredible views of Tampa Bay. Historical significance, but the natural setting is the real draw. Free entry.

Easy boardwalk trails, mangrove tunnels, a lookout tower and wide open views. Walk, bike or kayak.

Waterfront views, public art, playgrounds and open space for walking or relaxing, with dining, parks, music and sunsets.

Tropical plants, quiet walking paths and lakes. A peaceful spot for a morning stroll close to the house.

Exhibits on the history of the Village of Cortez, from its founding families to the fishing livelihood and current conservation work.

A world-class sports training campus where elite athletes train and compete.

Tropical gardens and exotic wildlife.

Our go-to with kids. A restaurant and bar on site, a tall lifeguard station, a playground, restrooms, a trolley and bus stop right there, and a beach-combing machine.

The island's longest stretch of sand, with the largest waterfront parking lot, lifeguards, restrooms, a playground and shady picnic pavilions under the pines.

Easy boardwalk trails, mangrove tunnels, a lookout tower and wide open views. Walk, bike or kayak.

Waterfront views, public art, playgrounds and open space for walking or relaxing, with dining, parks, music and sunsets.

One of the top marine aquariums in Florida and a short drive to Sarasota. Excellent for kids, and the shark tank and manatee rehabilitation program are genuinely impressive. Great rainy day option.

Tropical gardens and exotic wildlife.