Anna Maria Island offers some of the most exciting outdoor attractions in Florida including incredible beaches, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts, biking and walking trails, golfing, fishing, boating, dolphin and whale watching, kayaking and canoeing, wildlife viewing, and several other sports.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves beachgoing and sports, there’s nothing quite like vacationing here. Below are some of the most exciting Anna Maria Island things to do when you’re outside, for family vacations as well as for individuals, couples, and groups.
Beach Parks on Anna Maria Island
You’ll find several conveniently located beach parks on Anna Maria Island which are perfect for family vacations and outdoor activities due to their amazing facilities, beautiful beaches and a huge choice of outdoor sports to participate in.
Bayfront Park, Manatee Public Beach, and Coquina Beach are three of the most popular park/beach areas on the island which are all located near free trolley . These parks offer excellent beach access and many of them offer lifeguard services as well.
Coquina Beach has great facilities for families along with gorgeous views of the Gulf. Here you will find several volleyball courts as well as an excellent paved biking/walking path. Enjoy a scenic outdoor picnic at this beautiful beach, or you may even catch glimpse of dolphins frolicking near the shore. There is also a concession stand nearby when you need a break from the heat. The trolley stops here and free parking is available.
Manatee Public Beach, located in Holmes Beach, is one of the most popular outdoor areas on the island for families. Facilities are excellent and include outdoor grilling and picnic areas as well as restrooms and a playground. This park has volleyball courts to enjoy a match or two with family or friends. You can visit Manatee Public Beach by taking the trolley which stops directly there, or free parking is available as well.
Bayfront Park on the north end of the island offers a new playground and great beach access as well as excellent facilities for families including grilling and picnic areas. Located on the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, this park is perfect for birding, walking on the beach, swimming and fishing. Free parking is available at Bayfront Park and the trolley stops nearby. All of these three beaches are also ideal for walking or jogging along the shore, beach yoga or exercise, sunbathing, or wildlife viewing.
Check out Herb Dolan Park if you want something less crowded
Herb Dolan Park is located in Bradenton Beach on 26th Street and Avenue A, and it is often less crowded than the popular beach parks with a great view of the Sarasota Bay. This park offers a basketball court, playground, picnic area, and a playing field.
Play a free game of basketball or tennis in Holmes Beach
There is a free public basketball court in Holmes Beach at the end of 62nd Street if you want to hoop it up. Free tennis courts are also available in this area on a first come first serve basis. Additional tennis courts can be found on the northern side of the island at the Anna Maria Island Community Center at 407 Magnolia Avenue along with pickleball courts and an open gym. Daily passes can be purchased for the center.
Contact Us Today for More Information on Accommodations
There are plenty of other fun outdoor activities to enjoy when you vacation here. Lizzie Lu’s Island Retreat can help you plan your next exciting family vacation or outdoor adventure on Anna Maria Island. Contact us at (941)-782-8152 to ask any questions about activities on the island or to reserve world-class lodging near all of the excitement.