Bradenton FL · Anna Maria Island · Beaches
The Best Beaches Near Bradenton, FL: Anna Maria Island, Coquina & Cortez
By Oak & Oar Retreats · August 26, 2026
Our Bradenton retreat Dream Come True (4 BR / 3 BA with a game room, launching mid-September 2026) is about 15 minutes from some of Florida's best Gulf beaches. Here is our local rundown — the full interactive map lives on the Dream Come True Adventure Guide.
Anna Maria Island Beach
Seven miles of powdery white sand and turquoise water. The northern end near Bean Point feels like old Florida — no high-rises, just dunes and quiet. Free trolley service runs the length of the island.
Manatee Public Beach (Holmes Beach)
The classic family beach: lifeguards, concessions, volleyball courts, and easy parking. Great first-day option.
Coquina Beach
Our favorite for a full beach day — shaded Australian pines behind the sand, picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and long walkable shoreline at the island's southern tip.
Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach
Beach in the morning, then walk Bridge Street for shops, ice cream, and the historic pier. The Donut Experiment (made-to-order donuts) and Poppo's Taqueria are musts.
Historic Cortez Fishing Village
Step back a century in one of Florida's last working fishing villages. Star Fish Company Market & Restaurant serves dock-to-table grouper sandwiches on the water, and the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant is our pick for sunset dinners.
Skip the Gear Haul
Anna Maria Island Beach Chair & Umbrella Service sets up loungers and umbrellas on your stretch of sand (mention Oak & Oar when you book), and Suncoast Beach Gear Delivery drops weekly packages at the house. Island Watersports rents kayaks and paddleboards, and Beach Bums or Suncoast Cart & Bike Delivery will sort you out with a street-legal golf cart — the island's favorite way to get around.
Beyond the Sand
Kayak the mangrove trails at Robinson Preserve, stroll the Bradenton Riverwalk, tour the Bishop Museum of Science & Nature, or catch Pirates spring training at LECOM Park in March.
Book Dream Come True direct and save — private pool area, game room, and the Gulf 15 minutes away.