Anna Maria Island: Where to Eat and What to Do

The free island trolley runs between the City Pier at the north end and Coquina Beach at the south end, stopping at Pine Avenue and Manatee Public Beach along the way. Sources list it running from early morning to around 10 p.m., about every 20 minutes. Check Manatee County's current schedule before relying on it.

Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach is the central family choice, with a playground and snack bar, and it can fill early on weekends. Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach has pavilions and shade. Bean Point, at the island's northern tip, is the sunset walk, and there's no parking right at the point.

Pine Avenue is the island's main stroll, with boutiques, galleries, and cafés that lead down to the Anna Maria City Pier. The pier was rebuilt after Hurricane Irma, and it's a good place to see the bay.

Sandbar is the beachside institution. Nautilus Café by the Bradenton Beach marina does espresso, bites, and wine. On your way, Cortez is right there: Star Fish Company and Tide Tables sit on the water, and Anna Maria Oyster Bar has been a regional seafood name for years.