3. Coquina Beach
Located at the southern end of Anna Maria Island, Coquina Beach is an excellent spot for day-tripping. The beach has extensive parking, so finding a spot is generally not an issue. Coquina Beach is unique from other beaches in this area of Florida for its incredible canopy of pine trees just back from the beach. This is an ideal place for a barbecue, picnic, or to just escape the hot Florida sun.
The beach itself is wide and fairly deep, assuring that everyone will be able to find their own patch of soft sand. Waves tend to be fairly small here owing to the predominant winds over the land heading offshore. Lifeguards keep a watchful eye on all beachgoers, ensuring everyone’s safety.
Most of the action is near the center of the beach, where the beach concession is located. Here, you’ll find volleyball courts, washrooms, showers, and changerooms. For a bit of beachfront dining with the sand between your toes, grab a table under an umbrella at the Coquina Beach Café. Cold drinks, casual fare, and a million-dollar view are all on offer.
4. Cortez Beach
Farther north, near the historic center of Bradenton, is the low-key Cortez Beach. A quieter spot than Coquina, Cortez features a series of piers extending into the Gulf of Mexico. Depending on your point of view, these are eyesores or great ways to walk out over the water.
Surfers are definitely in the pro-breakwater camp, these manmade features help create some of the best surfing on Anna Maria Island.
Piers aside, the beach is wide, with soft sand and small dunes topped by sea oats at the back. Spend most of your day on the beach, but if you get hungry or thirsty, just a short walk north will take you to the historic Bridge Street area. Here, you’ll find a wide assortment of restaurants and shops that meet your every need.
Parking is relatively plentiful off Gulf Drive South, be sure to snag a spot as soon as you see it!
