Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, and the Manatee County, Florida beaches are a glorious throwback to Old Florida, when charming little beach towns were the rule and not the delightful exception they are today. Long, secluded stretches of brilliant white sand beaches line rolling dunes sprinkled with sea oats and scrubby Australian pines. The blue-green Gulf coast beaches edge a colorful canvas of beach towels, umbrellas, lifeguards, pick-up volleyball games and cookouts. The beaches of Florida’s Gulf Islands offer a shoreline experience for every beach lover.
Beaches here are all just a short drive from one another, and most offering free parking. Shore-side activities include nature trails, fishing piers, and plenty of beachcombing for shells, shark teeth and sea turtle nests. The local Island Turtle Watch conducts guided tours for an up-close look in July. Visitors can even find a spot for Spot to cool off in the Bradenton area with three dog-friendly locales. So kick off your shoes and sink your toes into one of our local favorites.
