Anna Maria Island, Florida, island paradise on the Gulf

Anna Maria Island Community Hub

Anna Maria Island

Island Paradise on the Gulf

Anna Maria Island is a seven-mile barrier island off Bradenton with three distinct towns: Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. No building tops three stories, the island trolley runs free from the City Pier to Coquina Beach, and the beaches and bay are the whole point. Consider this page your hub: a quick orientation, with each interest linking to a full Gulf Coast guide where the deeper detail lives.

Comparing islands? Read Anna Maria Island vs Siesta Key: Which Beach Community Fits You? for the full side-by-side.

Family Activities

Family Activities in Anna Maria Island

Family Activities Guide

Parks, playgrounds & kid-friendly outings

Anna Maria Island family life is beach-first: the playground and gentle Gulf surf at Coquina Beach, the bayfront park in Anna Maria, and Manatee Public Beach's central cafe. The family-activities guide points to the real places island families actually go, including the short drive across the bridge to Robinson Preserve.

  • Coquina Beach

    Family-friendly beach with a playground, cafe, pavilion and gentle Gulf waters perfect for children, open daily from sunrise to sunset.

  • Bayfront Park

    City park on Tampa Bay in Anna Maria with a beach, boat launch area, picnic pavilions and kayak access at 405 S Bay Blvd.

  • Manatee Public Beach

    The island central beach at Holmes Beach with restrooms, picnic tables, a beach cafe and parking at 4000 Gulf Dr.

  • Robinson Preserve

    SHORT DRIVE: a 600-acre county preserve minutes east across the bridge with paddling trails, an observation tower and family trails.

  • Anna Maria Community Farmers Market

    Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., October through April, at Roser Church on Pine Avenue: produce, seafood, baked goods and local crafts.

  • Sand Sculpture Competition

    Annual amateur sand sculpture competition organized by Keep Manatee Beautiful at Manatee Public Beach.

Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture in Anna Maria Island

Performing Arts Guide

Theater, opera, orchestra & dance

Anna Maria Island is a beach community, and no dedicated art museum on the island could be verified; the island's own arts presence is the community-run Anna Maria Island Art League in Holmes Beach, with seasonal festivals on Pine Avenue covered on the events page. The closest verified museums and studio districts sit about 20 minutes east in Bradenton, labeled Nearby below, and the Performing Arts guide carries the region's stage directory.

Local arts venues: the Anna Maria Island Art League is the island's verified arts organization; Pine Avenue galleries and studios are listed only where individually verified.

Local

  • Anna Maria Island Art League

    Local Art center
    5312 Holmes Blvd, Holmes Beach FL 34217

    Community art league with gallery exhibitions, classes and workshops in Holmes Beach, showcasing island and regional artists.

    Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10 AM to 2 PM, with Saturday visits by appointment per current published hours; confirm before visiting.

    Website Directions

Nearby

  • Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

    Nearby Museum
    201 10th St W, Bradenton FL 34205

    Natural and cultural history museum with the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat, a planetarium and prehistoric Florida exhibits, about 20 minutes east on the mainland.

    Open Tuesday to Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday noon to 5 PM, closed Monday per current published hours; confirm current hours and admission with the museum.

    Website Directions
  • Manatee Village Historical Park

    Nearby Historic site
    1404 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton FL 34208

    Open-air living history museum of restored and replica buildings telling Manatee County history from the 1840s through the 1920s.

    Open Monday to Friday and the second and fourth Saturdays, 9 AM to 4 PM per current published hours; confirm before visiting.

    Website Directions
  • Village of the Arts

    Nearby Studio district
    Near 14th Ave W, Bradenton

    Historic artist community of galleries, working studios and creative businesses with monthly art walks; hours vary by studio.

    Directions

Biking & Walking

Biking & Walking in Anna Maria Island

Biking & Walking Trails Guide

Trails, trailheads & waterfront walks

Anna Maria Island is flat, compact and made for walking and biking: seven miles of public Gulf beach to stroll, the bayside shoreline at Coquina Beach, and Gulf Drive's easy island pace. The biking-walking-trails guide covers the region's paved trail network, while the island itself is best done on two feet or two wheels.

  • Coquina Beach bayside walk

    The bayside shoreline and Longboat Pass jetty at Coquina Beach, a level walk with the island's south-tip views.

  • Anna Maria City Pier

    The historic bayfront pier at the foot of Pine Avenue: a wide-open deck, the island's iconic sunset walk and easy trolley access.

  • Bean Point

    The island north tip at the end of North Shore Drive: open sand, sweeping Gulf views and sunset gatherings; parking is very limited and there are no facilities.

  • Gulf Drive bike ride

    The island's main road runs the full seven miles from Anna Maria to Bradenton Beach; the island is compact and bikeable, and a car is optional for many days.

  • Robinson Preserve

    SHORT DRIVE: a 600-acre county preserve with family trails and an observation tower minutes east across the bridge.

  • Manatee Public Beach walk

    Central island beach with restrooms, picnic tables and easy access, a good base for a long Gulf shoreline walk.

Getting Around

Getting Around in Anna Maria Island

Getting Around Guide

Island trolley, bridges & parking

Anna Maria Island is reached by the Manatee Avenue bridge at Holmes Beach, with Gulf Drive running the island's full length through its three towns. The free island trolley (Route 5) runs from the City Pier to Coquina Beach from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and beach parking fills early in season.

  • Free Island Trolley (Route 5)

    Runs free from the Anna Maria City Pier to Coquina Beach from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., the smart way to move between beaches when parking fills.

  • Gulf Drive

    The island's main road running its full length through Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, with the beach parks and most island shops along it.

  • Manatee Avenue

    The main island entry from the mainland at Holmes Beach, where the Kingfish Boat Ramp sits at 752 Manatee Ave.

  • Anna Maria City Pier

    The historic bayfront pier at the foot of Pine Avenue with trolley access and the island's iconic sunset walk.

  • Beach parking

    Parking fills early in season at the county beach parks; the free trolley is the smart way to move between beaches.

  • Bradenton connections

    Bradenton sits 15 minutes across the bridge with hospitals, groceries and the riverfront, and SRQ airport is about 25 minutes away.

Relocation

Relocating to Anna Maria Island

Relocation Guide

Step-by-step move planning

Relocating to Anna Maria Island means learning island rhythm: no hospital on the island, Manatee County schools, city and county services across three towns, and Florida's wind and flood insurance realities. The relocation guide walks through utilities, residency, hurricane prep and insurance step by step.

  • Utilities setup

    Setting up utilities in Florida is straightforward but involves unique considerations: electric provider, water and sewer, internet and waste collection.

  • Manatee Memorial Hospital

    The nearest full-service hospital, about 20 minutes across the bridge in downtown Bradenton at 206 Second St E.

  • ER at Palma Sola

    The closest emergency room to the island, a freestanding ER about 10 minutes across the bridge at 633 75th St W, Bradenton.

  • School District of Manatee County

    The B-rated district serving the island; Anna Maria Elementary takes the island through fifth grade, then Martha B. King Middle and Manatee High in Bradenton.

  • Hurricane preparedness

    Bridge-dependent evacuation during storms with mandatory zones and seasonal bridge closure risk; hurricane season runs June through November.

  • Flood & wind insurance

    Flood coverage is a separate policy from homeowners and wind coverage, often required in high-risk zones; the island sits in high-risk wind and surge areas.

Population
About 4,900 across 3 island cities (2020 Census)
County
Manatee County
Best Known For
Seven miles of white-sand Gulf beaches & the free island trolley
Nearest Airport
Sarasota-Bradenton International (SRQ), about 25 minutes
Signature Resource
Coquina Beach, Manatee Public Beach & the Anna Maria City Pier

Population is the U.S. Census Bureau 2020 count for the island's three cities (Anna Maria 968, Holmes Beach 3,010, Bradenton Beach 908). The island is in Manatee County, so beaches, parks and ramps are county-run.

First Time in Anna Maria Island?

Start with the essentials: an early beach morning at Coquina or Manatee Public Beach, a free ride on the island trolley from the City Pier to Coquina, sunset at Bean Point, then a waterfront dinner. And note the two things newcomers miss: no dogs on the beaches, and there is no hospital on the island.

Start the Guide

What It's Like

A seven-mile barrier island off Bradenton with three towns: Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. No building tops three stories, and the beaches, bay and Old Florida character are the whole point.

Beach & Lifestyle

Who Lives Here

Full-time islanders, seasonal residents and vacation-rental guests share the easy beach rhythm; the mainland's jobs, hospitals and big-box shopping sit a bridge away.

Take the Quiz

Beaches & Water

Seven miles of public Gulf beach, all on the free island trolley (Route 5, City Pier to Coquina, 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.): Coquina Beach, Manatee Public Beach and quiet Bean Point at the north tip.

Beach Guide

Dining & Entertainment

Pine Avenue in Anna Maria and Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach concentrate the island's dining and shops: waterfront seafood houses, tiki bars and the bayfront City Pier.

Dining Guide

Getting Around

The free island trolley runs the island's length on Gulf Drive; the Manatee Avenue bridge links to Bradenton, and SRQ is about 25 minutes away with Tampa International about an hour.

Getting Around

Schools & Family

Manatee County Schools with Anna Maria Elementary, the island's only public school, through fifth grade, then Martha B. King Middle and Manatee High across the bridge; zoning is address-specific.

Schools & Family

Housing & Real Estate

The highest-priced market on this stretch of coast: a $875,000 median home value, a $500K to $5M+ range, and water proximity driving nearly the entire premium.

Market Snapshot

Before You Buy

Island life means bridge-dependent errands, no dogs on the beaches, no hospital on the island and real wind and flood insurance considerations; the relocation guide walks the checklist.

Relocation Guide

Newcomer path: relocation, family activities, dining, getting around and schools & family.

Restaurants & Bars

Anna Maria Island Restaurants & Bars

Island dining is casual, waterfront and genuinely local: beachfront fish houses, bayfront piers, tiki bars and a few chef-driven kitchens. Every pick below is tagged two ways, by cuisine and by experience, so you can find your fit fast. Each chip jumps to its on-page category list.

Anna Maria Island dining runs beachfront and bayfront: Sandbar at the north end, The Waterfront at the City Pier and Star Fish Company across the bridge in Cortez, with pizza and sushi covered by one island pick each. Steak and pan-Asian tables are honestly thin on the island; the nearest full menus are across the bridge in Bradenton.

Full Restaurant Guide
Seafood WaterfrontOutdoorLive Music

Sandbar Seafood & Spirits

Beachfront restaurant and bar on the Gulf at the north end of the island, with live music on the deck and sunset dining a constant

100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 778-0444

Seafood WaterfrontDate NightDock Access

The Waterfront Restaurant

Bayfront anchor at the Anna Maria City Pier: fresh Gulf seafood, a raw bar and bay views from the dockside patio

111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 778-1515

American Date NightFamily Friendly

The Feast Restaurant

Chef-driven American kitchen on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach, an island favorite for its seasonal menus and warm dining room

5406 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-5092

Browse by Category

Anna Maria Island Dining by Category

Each category below is part of the master architecture, in the exact master order. Lists carry verified island picks with address, phone and website where confirmed; categories with little or nothing local are honestly flagged THIN rather than padded.

Italian

One honest island table in Holmes Beach; the fuller Italian scene sits across the bridge in Bradenton.

Vinny's Italian Kitchen

Italian kitchen and bakery on Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach

5337 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 896-9754

See All Italian Restaurants

Mexican

Taquerias and a cantina cover the island taco scene, from Anna Maria to Bradenton Beach.

Poppo's Taqueria

Counter-serve tacos, bowls and margaritas on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria

212C Pine Ave, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 254-7941

Los Chiludos Fresh Mexican Grill

Casual Mexican grill on East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach

3232 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 345-4102

Wicked Cantina

Cantina with patio seating in Bradenton Beach, a block from the Gulf

101 7th St N, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 281-2990

See All Mexican Restaurants

Seafood

Fresh-off-the-boat seafood is the heart of the island table: beachfront fish houses, bayfront piers and the Cortez kitchens across the bridge.

Sandbar Seafood & Spirits

Beachfront seafood and raw bar at the north end, open daily

100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 778-0444

The Waterfront Restaurant

Bayfront seafood at the Anna Maria City Pier

111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 778-1515

Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant

Seafood house on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach

121 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 896-9737

Star Fish Company

SHORT DRIVE: classic Cortez fish market and dockside kitchen just across the bridge

12306 46th Ave W, Cortez FL 34215 · (941) 794-1243

See All Seafood Restaurants

Steakhouse

THIN: no dedicated steakhouse operates on the island. The closest serious steak tables are across the bridge in Bradenton (Cody Original Roadhouse, Michael John steakhouse). The island favorite Beach Bistro remains closed after 2024 hurricane damage.

See All Steakhouse Restaurants

Sushi & Japanese

One genuine sushi counter on the island; the wider Japanese scene is a short drive east across the bridge.

Sushi Ramen Anna Maria

Sushi and ramen counter on Gulf Drive in Anna Maria

9801 Gulf Dr #7, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 900-2537

See All Sushi & Japanese Restaurants

Pizza

Wood-fired and New York style slices cover the island, from Anna Maria to Holmes Beach.

Pizza Social

Wood-fired pizzas and salads on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria

308 Pine Ave, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 251-4070

Pizzano's Pizza

Family pizzeria on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach

5318 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-3663

Solo's Pizza

Neighborhood pizza and Italian on East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach

3244 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-8118

See All Pizza Restaurants

American

Chef-driven kitchens, grills and pub plates: the modern island table beyond seafood.

The Feast Restaurant

Chef-driven American kitchen on Marina Drive

5406 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-5092

Harry's Grill

Casual American grill and bar on Gulf Drive in Anna Maria

9903 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 567-5999

Duffy's Tavern, Bar and Grill

No-frills island tavern in Holmes Beach neighborhood

5808 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-2501

See All American Restaurants

Asian

THIN: the island has no Pan-Asian kitchen of its own beyond its sushi counter; Thai and Vietnamese options live across the bridge in Bradenton.

See All Asian Restaurants

Breakfast & Brunch

The island breakfast scene is a real strength: beach cafes and bakeries from Anna Maria to Bradenton Beach.

Minnie's Beach Cafe

No-frills breakfast spot on Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach

5360 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-4140

Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe

Beachside breakfast and lunch counter at Manatee Public Beach

4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-0784

Victoria & Sophia

Breakfast, brunch and cocktails on Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach

5315 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 567-6001

Peach's Restaurant, Holmes Beach

Breakfast and lunch favorite on East Bay Drive

3240 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 779-0738

See All Breakfast & Brunch Restaurants

Waterfront

On an island, the water is the point: Gulf-front decks, bayfront piers and canal-side docks.

Sandbar Seafood & Spirits

Gulf-front deck at the north end

100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 778-0444

The Waterfront Restaurant

Bayfront dining and dock at the City Pier

111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 778-1515

Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier

Pier house on the Intracoastal at Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach

200 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-2662

Beach House Waterfront Restaurant

Gulf-front dining room on Gulf Drive North, Bradenton Beach

200 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 779-2222

See All Waterfront Restaurants

Tiki & Island Bars

The island's afternoons run on tiki: sunset decks, live music and colorful cocktails from Holmes Beach to Bradenton Beach.

Gulf Drive Cafe & Tiki Bar

Long-running tiki bar and cafe a block off the Gulf in Bradenton Beach

900 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-1919

The Kokonut Hut

Tiki bar on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach with nightly live music

5313 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217

The Bridge Tender Inn Dockside & Tiki Bar

Dockside tiki on the Intracoastal at Marker 49, Bradenton Beach

135 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-4849

See All Tiki & Island Bars

Fine Dining

THIN: two verified fine-dining rooms are open today. Beach Bistro, the island's most storied fine-dining restaurant, remains closed after 2024 hurricane damage.

The Porch Restaurant

Upscale chef-driven dining room on Gulf Drive in Anna Maria

9707 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 782-8683

The Chateau Anna Maria

Fine-dining room and lounge on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach

5325 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 238-6264

See All Fine Dining Restaurants

Family Friendly

Casual, loud and beach-close: the easy eat-with-kids picks on the island.

Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier

Casual pier house with a kids menu and water views

200 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-2662

Island Time Bar and Grill

Relaxed grill across from the beach in Bradenton Beach

111 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 782-1122

Poppo's Taqueria

Fast, friendly tacos on Pine Avenue

212C Pine Ave, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 254-7941

See All Family Friendly Restaurants

Date Night

Sunset over the Gulf is the whole game: beachfront decks, bayfront piers and two fine-dining rooms.

The Porch Restaurant

Intimate upscale dinner room in Anna Maria

9707 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 782-8683

The Waterfront Restaurant

Bayfront table at sunset beside the City Pier

111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 778-1515

Sandbar Seafood & Spirits

Gulf-front deck with live music at sunset

100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 778-0444

See All Date Night Restaurants

Outdoor Dining

Most island dining happens outdoors: Gulf decks, bayfront patios and tiki gardens.

Beach House Waterfront Restaurant

Expansive Gulf-front decks in Bradenton Beach

200 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 779-2222

Gulf Drive Cafe & Tiki Bar

Open-air tiki garden in Bradenton Beach

900 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-1919

The Waterfront Restaurant

Bayfront dockside patio at the City Pier

111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 778-1515

See All Outdoor Dining Restaurants

Dock Access

A handful of island tables are reachable by water; dockage availability varies by tide and season, so call ahead.

The Bridge Tender Inn Dockside & Tiki Bar

Dockside dining on the Intracoastal at Marker 49 with transient dockage

135 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-4849

Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier

Pier house at Bridge Street; tie up nearby and walk in

200 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-2662

The Waterfront Restaurant

Bayfront location beside the City Pier; confirm dock space when you book

111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria FL 34216 · (941) 778-1515

See All Dock Access Restaurants

Live Music

Live music is part of the island evening: beachfront decks and tiki bars run daily and nightly sets.

Sandbar Restaurant

Live music on the deck daily, afternoons and evenings

The Ugly Grouper

Open-air tiki bar with daily live music and sunset views

6000 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217

Freckled Fin Irish Pub

Live music nearly every night in a lively island pub

103 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 251-3930

Kokonut Hut

Island tiki bar with nightly live music

5313 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217

See All Live Music Restaurants

Pet Friendly

Open-air decks and tiki gardens are the realistic pet-friendly tables on the island; dogs are not allowed on island beaches, so confirm the current patio policy when you book.

Gulf Drive Cafe & Tiki Bar

Tiki garden seating in Bradenton Beach

(941) 778-1919

Poppo's Taqueria

Outdoor counter tables on Pine Avenue

(941) 254-7941

See All Pet Friendly Restaurants

Sports Bars

Island sports bars are pub-style corners; the biggest game-day screens are across the bridge in Bradenton.

Duffy's Tavern, Bar and Grill

Neighborhood tavern and grill in Holmes Beach

5808 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217 · (941) 778-2501

Freckled Fin Irish Pub

Irish pub with a lively bar scene in Bradenton Beach

103 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach FL 34217 · (941) 251-3930

See All Sports Bars

Live Music

Anna Maria Island Live Music

The island live music scene runs on tiki bars and beach decks: daily and nightly sets come first, and there is no concert house on the island itself, so that subsection is honestly thin. For theaters and big stages, the Bradenton and Sarasota venues are 20 to 40 minutes away.

Full Live Music Guide

Restaurants, Bars & Waterfront Spots with Live Music

5 spots

Drift-In AMI

Beachside bar with live music daily on Anna Maria Island.

Daily 3-7 PM

The Ugly Grouper

Popular open-air tiki bar and restaurant on Anna Maria Island overlooking the intracoastal. Features live music daily with a relaxed island vibe and spectacular sunset views.

Daily live music, afternoons and evenings

Directions

Freckled Fin Irish Pub

A lively Irish pub on Anna Maria Island with live music nearly every night. Features local and regional bands playing rock, folk, and acoustic sets in a friendly pub atmosphere.

Nearly nightly, 6-10 PM

Sandbar Restaurant

Beachfront restaurant with live music on the deck overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. A classic AMI dining and music experience with sunset entertainment.

Daily, afternoons & evenings

Website Directions

Kokonut Hut

Tiki bar with nightly live music and a vibrant social scene on Anna Maria Island. Known for its fun atmosphere, creative cocktails, and regular live entertainment.

Nightly, 4-10 PM

Directions

Live Music Venues

THIN

THIN

Anna Maria Island has no dedicated concert venue or performing arts house of its own. The closest stages are the Manatee Performing Arts Center in Bradenton, about 20 minutes away, with Sarasota major halls about 40 minutes south.

Events

Anna Maria Island Events

Bayfest, beach markets, sand sculpture and on-the-water happenings around the island, straight from the events engine.

Full Events Calendar
Festival

Bayfest

Annual street festival on Pine Avenue with live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and a classic car show.

2026-10-17

Festival

Symphony on the Sand

Annual beachfront concert by the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra at Coquina Beach attracting over 4,000 attendees.

Check official source for dates

Festival

Anna Maria Island SandBlast

Annual amateur sand sculpture competition organized by Keep Manatee Beautiful at Manatee Public Beach. Exact dates confirmed closer to the event.

Annual sand sculpture competition, typically held in November

Learn More
Gallery

Anna Maria Island Art League

Community art center with gallery exhibitions, classes, and workshops on Anna Maria Island. Showcases local island artists.

Family

Coquina Beach Family Fun

Family-friendly beach with a playground, cafe, pavilion, and gentle Gulf waters perfect for children.

Daily, sunrise to sunset

Boat Tour

Fun Boat Tours - Anna Maria Island

Fun Boat Tours operates from Keyes Marina on Anna Maria Island offering sightseeing and eco-tours of the Gulf Coast.

Daily, multiple departure times

Learn More
Boat Tour

Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours

Dolphin-watching eco-tours around Anna Maria Island and the intracoastal waters with marine life viewing.

Daily, 1.5-2 hour tours

Kayaking

Anna Maria Island Kayak Rentals

Kayak and paddleboard rentals exploring the calm waters around Anna Maria Island and mangrove tunnels.

Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM

Staples of the island week

Anna Maria Community Farmers Market

Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., October through April, at Roser Church on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria: produce, seafood, baked goods and local crafts.

Website

Coquina Beach Market

Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., January through June, at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach.

Island market guide

Bridge Street Market

Sundays 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., November through April, along Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach.

Island market guide

Anna Maria Island Chamber Events

The chamber calendar carries BayFest and the island's other gatherings through the year.

Chamber events

Evergreen Guide

More Live Music

No confirmed live music events are verified for Anna Maria Island right now. Browse the Live Music guide for venues, schedules and year-round picks.

Evergreen Guide

More Food

No confirmed food events are verified for Anna Maria Island right now. Browse the Food guide for venues, schedules and year-round picks.

Evergreen Guide

More Family

No confirmed family events are verified for Anna Maria Island right now. Browse the Family guide for venues, schedules and year-round picks.

Evergreen Guide

More Water

No confirmed water events are verified for Anna Maria Island right now. Browse the Water guide for venues, schedules and year-round picks.

Evergreen Guide

More Arts

No confirmed arts events are verified for Anna Maria Island right now. Browse the Arts guide for venues, schedules and year-round picks.

Beaches

Anna Maria Island Beaches

Seven miles of Gulf sand, all of it public and none of it dog-friendly: the three county beach parks anchor the island, with unmarked natural stretches between. Parking fills early in season, and the free trolley is the smart way to move between beaches.

Beach & Lifestyle Guide
Gulf beach

Coquina Beach

The southern beach on Anna Maria Island at 2650 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach: roughly 857 free parking spaces, lifeguards, restrooms, showers, changing cabanas, playground, volleyball, grills, pavilions and an on-beach cafe. No pets on any Manatee County beach; no alcohol; no glass. Sunrise to sunset.

2650 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach FL 34217

Official info Directions
Gulf beach · Holmes Beach

Manatee Beach

Central island beach at 4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach: a wide shallow entry, lifeguards daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., restrooms, showers and a snack bar. No pets on any Manatee County beach.

4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217

Directions
Bayfront park · Bay swimming

Anna Maria Bayfront Park

Four acres at the north tip of Anna Maria Island with playgrounds, picnic tables and grills, restrooms and showers, calm shallow bay water and views of the Sunshine Skyway. A bayfront park with bay swimming, not a Gulf beach.

North tip of Anna Maria Island

Official info Directions
Gulf beach access

Bean Point

Public Gulf beach access at the north end of Anna Maria Island, popular for sunsets. Keep details thin where unverified: there are no confirmed facilities at the access.

North end of Anna Maria Island

Directions

Water quality and beach conditions change daily: check the Florida Healthy Beaches Program (visitbeaches.org) and Mote Marine Laboratory’s beach conditions page before you go; anything time-sensitive here is subject to change.

Outdoor Activities

Anna Maria Island Outdoor Activities

Beach days, bay paddles and a big county preserve just across the bridge: island outdoor life in the same structure as the master guides. Note that the Leffis Key preserve boardwalk (Coquina Baywalk) remains closed after 2024 hurricane damage.

Kayak & Paddle Guide

Coquina Beach

County beach park

The island southern beach: a stretch of Gulf sand, cafe, pavilion and easy trolley access

Manatee Public Beach

County beach park

The island central beach at Holmes Beach with restrooms, picnic tables, beach cafe and parking

Bayfront Park

Bayfront park & kayak launch

City park on Tampa Bay in Anna Maria with a beach, boat launch area, picnic pavilions and kayak access

Bean Point

Sunset viewpoint

The island north tip at the end of North Shore Drive: open sand, sweeping Gulf views and sunset gatherings; parking is very limited and there are no facilities

Robinson Preserve

SHORT DRIVE: preserve & paddling

A 600-acre county preserve minutes east across the bridge in Manatee County, with paddling trails, an observation tower and family trails

Palma Sola Bay

Kayaking & paddleboarding

Calm bay water along the island causeway: launch at the county causeway park or join a paddle tour

Boating

Anna Maria Island Boating

The island sits between Tampa Bay and the Gulf: launch at the county ramps, keep the boat at Keyes or Bradenton Beach Marina, and the flats, the pass and the Gulf are all minutes away. Ramps and marinas live here; fishing lives in its own section just below.

Kingfish Boat Ramp

County ramp on Manatee Avenue in Holmes Beach: 3 launch lanes, docks, fish-cleaning station and trailer parking, open 24 hours

Coquina Bayside South Ramp

County ramp at the south end of the island behind Coquina Beach, with trailer parking and fish-cleaning station

Coquina Bayside North Ramp

Second county ramp on the bayside of Gulf Drive, about 0.6 mile north of the south ramp

Holmes Beach Memorial Park Ramp

City ramp at 63rd Street with a single lane and trailer spaces

Keyes Marina

Full-service island marina: slips to about 30 feet, fuel, repairs, tackle shop and charter departures

Bradenton Beach Marina

Full-service resort marina on the Intracoastal in Bradenton Beach

Dine by Boat

Island spots you can reach by water, with dock detail, address, website and directions. The full list lives on the Boating Guide.

Boating Guide: Dine by Boat

The Bridge Tender Inn Dockside & Tiki Bar

Dockside tables on the Intracoastal at Marker 49; transient dockage for diners

135 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach FL 34217

Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier

Pier house behind Bridge Street; tie up nearby and walk in

200 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach FL 34217

The Waterfront Restaurant

Bayfront beside the City Pier; confirm dock space when you book

111 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria FL 34216

Tide Tables Restaurant & Marina

SHORT DRIVE: marina docks on the Cortez waterfront, just across the bridge

12507 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton FL 34210

Boater's Quick Reference: Passes & Inlets

Tides change daily. Each pass links to live NOAA tide data or the transit guidance that applies to it; the pass-by-pass dashboard has the full detail.

Longboat Pass

The stabilized inlet between Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key at the island's south end, with a drawbridge that opens on request. Depths and shoals shift with tides and storms, so confirm current conditions with NOAA before transiting

Passage Key Inlet

The unmarked natural pass between Egmont Key and the island north tip: shallow and shift-prone, small craft only, always transit with caution

Charters & Rentals

THIN on sailing clubs: no club is based on the island itself, so charters lead. Book directly with each operator; sailing clubs run their own membership processes.

Fun Boat Tours, Anna Maria Island

Dolphin, sunset and sandbar cruises departing daily from Keyes Marina in Holmes Beach

AMI Sportfishing Charters

Inshore and offshore fishing charters running out of Bradenton Beach

GulfCart Fishing Charters

Family-friendly fishing charters from Bradenton Beach

Spice Sailing Charters

Sailing sunset and day charters from Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Yacht Charters

Private captained yacht charters for cruises, sandbars and sunsets

Fishing

Anna Maria Island Fishing

The island fishes from its piers, its beaches and its boats: bay side for snook and redfish, the pass for jacks and tarpon, off the beaches for whiting and pompano. Seasons, slot and bag limits, fish ID, piers, charters and tides all live on the Fishing Guide, the authoritative source.

The historic bayfront pier at the foot of Pine Avenue: a wide-open fishing deck, the island iconic sunset walk and easy trolley access

Directions

Fishing pier on the Intracoastal behind Bridge Street with bait and tackle adjacent

Directions

The island's classic angling pier at North Shore Drive; the pier remains closed for reconstruction after 2024 hurricane damage, while the restaurant operates at a temporary Holmes Beach location

Directions

Shore fishing along the bayside of Coquina Beach and the jetty at Longboat Pass; check swim-area signage

Directions

Fish the docks beside the Kingfish ramp on Manatee Avenue, a favorite afternoon spot

Directions

Shopping

Anna Maria Island Shopping

Island shopping is small, walkable and local: the historic avenue in Anna Maria, Bridge Street at the south end, and the Holmes Beach main drags in between. For big-box retail and malls, the mainland across the bridge has the full options.

Shopping Guide

Pine Avenue, Anna Maria

The historic island avenue in Anna Maria: boutiques, cafes, galleries and the Saturday pace of old Florida

Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach

South island shops, cafes and the harbor walk behind the beach at Coquina

Marina Drive & Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach

The island main drags: resort wear, surf shops, bakeries and the beach-cafe strip

Island Farmers Markets

The Anna Maria Community Farmers Market runs Tuesdays, plus the Coquina Beach Market and Bridge Street Market in season

Golf

Anna Maria Island Golf

No golf course sits on Anna Maria Island, so every pick below is honestly labeled by where it is: the closest is on Longboat Key across the pass, and the public options sit across the bridge in Bradenton.

Golf Guide

Longboat Key Club

NEARBY, PRIVATE: resort golf on Longboat Key across Longboat Pass, about 10 minutes south; access for resort guests and members

Golf across the bridge

Manatee County Golf Course, River Run and Timber Creek are the public Bradenton options, all under 25 minutes from the island.

Golf Guide

Pet Friendly

Anna Maria Island Pet Friendly

The honest headline: dogs are not allowed on any of the island public beaches. The island makes it up to pets everywhere else, with a fenced dog park, leashed-park access and the dog-friendly beach just across the bridge at Palma Sola Causeway.

Pet-Friendly Guide

Holmes Beach Dog Park

Off-leash dog park in Holmes Beach: fenced, free, open sunrise to 10 p.m.

Directions

Palma Sola Causeway

SHORT DRIVE: the dog-friendly beach across the bridge in Bradenton, the closest place island dogs can swim

Directions

City Pier Park, Anna Maria

Leashed dogs are welcome at the bayfront park under the city 2024 ordinance; keep pets leashed on the pier

Directions

Island Beaches: No Dogs

Dogs are not allowed on Anna Maria Island public beaches in any of the three cities; plan beach days for the dog at Palma Sola instead

Directions

Local Services & Vendors

Local Services & Vendors on Anna Maria Island

A compact, honest starting set for island life: the chamber, the marina and tackle shop, the community center and the county that runs the parks and trolley. This directory is expanding and will carry more of the area reputable local businesses.

Keyes Marina & Island Discount Tackle

Marina services, fuel, bait and tackle for island anglers and boaters

Market Data

Anna Maria Island Real Estate at a Glance

Median home value

$875,000

Island community profile figure. Waterfront and beachside homes command far more, and the short-term rental market keeps a strong floor under values.

Source: Anna Maria Island community profile. County-wide trends: Market Snapshot.

Price range

$500K - $5M+

Profile range: canal and bayfront condos near the bottom, Gulf-front and beachside estates at the top. Water proximity drives nearly the entire premium.

Source: Anna Maria Island community profile. Verify current listings with a local agent.

Community Resources

Anna Maria Island Community Resources

The official public and community institutions that serve Anna Maria Island: the City of Anna Maria, Manatee County government, schools, parks and recreation, county transit and emergency management, and the island chamber. Every entry is the confirmed official or legitimate public or community institution and links to its authoritative website. Verification confirms existence and legitimacy only, never an endorsement and never a commercial rating. Businesses and paid services live in the separate Local Services & Vendors directory above, not here. Entries are ordered Local first, then Nearby, then Regional, and regional services state the area they serve.

Government & Public Services

Official public and community institutions serving the Anna Maria Island area.

THIN
Government & Public Services Verified community resource Local

City of Anna Maria

Official website of the City of Anna Maria on Anna Maria Island, with city services, permits and meetings.

Anna Maria Island City of Anna Maria
Website

ID: FGCL-AMI-GV-001 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Government & Public Services Verified community resource Regional

Manatee County Government

Official county government site for permits, utilities, parks, libraries and county services. Parts of Anna Maria Island are unincorporated Manatee County.

Anna Maria Island Manatee County
Website

ID: FGCL-AMI-GV-002 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Schools & Education

Official public and community institutions serving the Anna Maria Island area.

THIN
Schools & Education Verified community resource Local

School District of Manatee County

Manatee County public schools, the district serving Anna Maria Island. Campus details, enrollment and school boundaries belong to the district.

Anna Maria Island Manatee County
Website

ID: FGCL-AMI-SC-001 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Parks & Recreation

Official public and community institutions serving the Anna Maria Island area.

THIN
Parks & Recreation Verified community resource Regional

Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources

County parks and beach agency managing Manatee County parks and preserves, including the county-owned park land on Anna Maria Island.

Anna Maria Island Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island
Website

ID: FGCL-AMI-PK-001 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Transportation

Official public and community institutions serving the Anna Maria Island area.

THIN
Transportation Verified community resource Nearby

Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)

The nearest major commercial airport, about 40 minutes from Anna Maria Island. Regional service for Sarasota and Manatee counties.

6000 Airport Cir, Sarasota FL 34243

Anna Maria Island Sarasota and Manatee counties (regional airport, about 40 minutes from Anna Maria Island)

ID: FGCL-AMI-TR-002 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Transportation Verified community resource Regional

Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT)

Manatee County's public bus network, with routes serving Anna Maria Island and the mainland. Regional county service.

Anna Maria Island Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island
Website Phone

ID: FGCL-AMI-TR-001 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Utilities

Official public and community institutions serving the Anna Maria Island area.

THIN
Utilities Verified community resource Local

Manatee County Utilities

Manatee County water, sewer and solid waste utility serving county customers, including Anna Maria Island.

Anna Maria Island Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island
Website Phone

ID: FGCL-AMI-UT-001 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Utilities Verified community resource Regional

Florida Power & Light (FPL)

Electric provider serving Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island. Outages: 1-800-468-8243.

Anna Maria Island Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and Lee counties
Website Phone

ID: FGCL-AMI-UT-002 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Community Organizations

Official public and community institutions serving the Anna Maria Island area.

THIN

No verified community resources in Community Organizations yet. Every listing is verified against its official source before it is published, so this group fills in as official institutions are confirmed.

Business & Downtown Organizations

Official public and community institutions serving the Anna Maria Island area.

THIN
Business & Downtown Organizations Verified community resource Local

Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce

The membership chamber serving the three island cities and the Anna Maria Island business community.

5313 Gulf Dr N, Holmes Beach FL 34217

Anna Maria Island Anna Maria Island

ID: FGCL-AMI-BD-001 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Emergency / Public Safety

Official public and community institutions serving the Anna Maria Island area.

4 listed
Emergency / Public Safety Verified community resource Regional

Manatee County Emergency Management

County emergency management with alerts, evacuation information and hurricane preparedness for Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island.

Anna Maria Island Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island
Website

ID: FGCL-AMI-EM-001 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Emergency / Public Safety Verified community resource Regional

Manatee County Sheriff's Office (non-emergency)

County law enforcement serving Manatee County, including Anna Maria Island. Non-emergency line; call 911 for emergencies.

Anna Maria Island Manatee County
Website Phone

ID: FGCL-AMI-EM-002 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Emergency / Public Safety Verified community resource Regional

911 Emergency

Call 911 from any phone for life-threatening emergencies. Tell the dispatcher your location and stay on the line.

Anna Maria Island United States (universal emergency number)
Phone

ID: FGCL-AMI-EM-003 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Emergency / Public Safety Verified community resource Regional

Florida Poison Control

Poison help for residents of Florida: 1-800-222-1222 (U.S. Poison Help). Keep the number saved in your phone.

Anna Maria Island Florida
Phone

ID: FGCL-AMI-EM-004 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Other Official Resources

Official public and community institutions serving the Anna Maria Island area.

THIN
Other Official Resources Verified community resource Local

Island Library

The Manatee County Public Library System branch on Anna Maria Island, in Holmes Beach.

5701 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach FL 34217

Anna Maria Island Anna Maria Island

ID: FGCL-AMI-OR-001 · Last verified: October 18, 2026

Curated for Anna Maria Island. Planning a move? The Relocation Guide, Schools & Family and Getting Around guides cover the practical side of living here.

Living & Real Estate

Living in Anna Maria Island

Relocation is more than buying a home, it's learning a new rhythm: trolley schedules, bridge traffic, storm season and the mainland habit of life. Use these resources for the practical planning, then explore the market when you're ready.

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Seven miles of public Gulf beach, all free and all in one trolley ride (Route 5 runs free from the City Pier to Coquina, 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.)
  • Old Florida character preserved by the three-story height limit and low-density zoning
  • Genuine boating and fishing access: four public ramps on the island plus full-service marinas
  • Compact and bikeable; a car is optional for many island days
  • Strong short-term rental demand with the county and city rules spelled out before you buy
  • SRQ airport about 25 minutes and Tampa International about an hour

Considerations

  • No hospital, urgent care or 24/7 emergency vet on the island: every medical trip crosses the bridge
  • Dogs are not allowed on the island public beaches (the closest dog beach is at Palma Sola Causeway)
  • Bridge-dependent evacuation during storms, with mandatory zones and seasonal closure risk
  • Peak-season crowds, beach parking that fills early and bridge traffic on summer weekends
  • Limited grocery and big-box retail; the weekly shop is a mainland errand
  • Island prices are the highest on the Gulf Coast here, and flood/wind insurance is a real line item

Schools & Family

Full Guide

The island is served by the School District of Manatee County. Anna Maria Elementary, the only public school on the island, takes the entire island through fifth grade (plus North Longboat Key); middle and high school students cross the bridge to Martha B. King Middle and Manatee High School in Bradenton.

Zoning is address-specific, and Manatee County has published draft boundary proposals for 2026-27, so confirm your exact assignment with the district school-search tool.

Notable Schools

  • Anna Maria Elementary: island K-5 campus, the only public school on the island
  • Martha B. King Middle School: zoned middle school in Bradenton
  • Manatee High School: zoned high school in West Bradenton
  • School District of Manatee County: B-rated district with a growing list of A schools, concentrated in east Manatee

Family Favorites

  • Robinson Preserve: nature trails, a kayak launch, an observation tower and a nature-themed playground in northwest Bradenton
  • Coquina Beach and Manatee Public Beach: pavilions, restrooms and calm Gulf surf for family days
  • The historic Anna Maria City Pier: fishing deck, bay views and the island's iconic sunset walk
  • The free island trolley: an easy way to move between beaches and towns without the car
Full Family Activities Guide

Relocation Deep Dives

Insurance for Anna Maria Island Buyers

Anna Maria Island is a barrier island, and the island sits in high-risk wind and surge areas, so insurance is a real line item, but every property is different: Gulf-front, bayfront and mid-island addresses each sit on their own mapped risk. Flood insurance is a separate policy from homeowners insurance, most commonly written through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) run by FEMA. The authoritative check for any address is the FEMA Flood Map Service Center, which shows the official flood zone, and elevation matters as well, because newer construction is often built higher than older homes in the same zone. Wind and hurricane coverage is driven by property specifics: roof age, shutters or impact glass and wind-mitigation features all shape what insurers offer, and Florida policies carry hurricane deductibles of their own.

Citizens Property Insurance exists as the state-run insurer of last resort for buyers who cannot find private coverage, and availability and pricing shift across the Florida market. Nothing here is a quote or a guarantee: verify every detail for the exact property with a licensed insurance agent.

Flood Insurance (NFIP)
FEMA Flood Map Service Center
Flood Zone & Elevation
Wind Coverage & Hurricanes
Homeowners Insurance Basics
Citizens & the Florida Market
Island Wind & Surge Exposure
Insurability & Roof Age
Questions to Ask an Agent

Questions to ask your insurance agent before making an offer

  • What flood zone is this property in on the current FEMA maps, and does the lender require flood insurance?
  • How old is the roof, and how does the insurer treat roof age for this exact property?
  • Is wind coverage included or written separately, and what is the hurricane deductible in dollars?
  • Has the home had a wind mitigation inspection and a 4-point inspection, and what did they find?
  • Are there prior flood claims on the property, and are they disclosed in the seller paperwork?
  • Is the property currently insured, and would a new policy be written for this address?

Buying or selling on Anna Maria Island? For current listings and market information, visit Michael Hart's real estate website  mikehart.exprealty.com

Anna Maria Island Healthcare

Anna Maria Island Healthcare at a Glance

The honest starting point: there is no hospital, urgent care or 24/7 emergency room on the island itself. Every medical trip crosses the bridge to mainland Bradenton, and the freestanding ER at Palma Sola is the closest option at about 10 minutes.

Emergency Rooms (mainland)

ER at Palma Sola, Manatee Memorial

The closest emergency room to the island, a freestanding ER about 10 minutes across the bridge

633 75th St W, Bradenton FL 34209

Manatee Memorial Hospital

The nearest full-service hospital, about 20 minutes across the bridge in downtown Bradenton

206 Second St E, Bradenton FL 34208

HCA Florida Blake Hospital

Level II trauma center in West Bradenton, about 20 minutes away

2020 59th St W, Bradenton FL 34209

Urgent Care (mainland)

Pinnacle Medical Group Urgent Care

Walk-in urgent care in West Bradenton, often cited as the closest to the island

315 75th St W, Bradenton FL 34209

MD Now Urgent Care, West Bradenton

Walk-in urgent care open seven days on Cortez Road

4332 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton FL 34210

Emergency Veterinary Care

Emergency Veterinary Care, Mainland

No animal hospital operates on Anna Maria Island. For after-hours emergencies, mainland Bradenton veterinary hospitals handle island pets; contact your regular veterinarian for their current after-hours referral numbers.. Call your veterinarian for current after-hours numbers.

Your Guide

Thinking About the Gulf Coast?

Curated by local real estate expert Michael Hart, this site is a resource first. Ask him anything about Anna Maria Island living, the market, or a move to the Gulf Coast.

240-357-3279

realtormikehart@gmail.com

Anna Maria Island, Manatee County & the Gulf Coast

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