Anna Maria
Anna Maria, FL
Anna Maria sits at the quiet, northern tip of Anna Maria Island, its historic city pier and Bean Point beach offering a slower pace than the busier beaches further south. The old Florida character survives here in a way it doesn't everywhere on this stretch of the Gulf, with low rise buildings and a walkable town center.
The slower pace and genuine old Florida character at the island's northern tip make it a real local favorite, though limited parking means it takes more effort to reach than the bigger beaches to the south.
How we score beachesWalk out to Bean Point at the island's very northern tip for water on three sides and some of the best sunset views on Anna Maria Island. Ride the free AMI trolley up from the pier if parking near Bean Point looks tight, spaces are limited this far up the island.
Street parking is limited near Bean Point and the pier, without a large dedicated lot the way Holmes Beach has.
Beach access near the pier and Bean Point is a short, flat walk, though parking itself can be the bigger challenge.
Dogs aren't allowed on Anna Maria Island's main beaches, including here; the Holmes Beach dog park is the nearest off-leash option.
Winter and spring bring Southwest Florida's driest, mildest weather and the biggest snowbird crowds. Summer's heat and hurricane season, June through November, thin things out despite warmer water.
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