The eight-mile island is accessible by two bridges from the mainland and composed of three beaches. Families and sunbathers alike will hit up Siesta Beach—widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the world and annually ranked in TripAdvisors’ Top Beaches in the U.S.—complete with a public pavilion, plenty
of parking, volleyball nets and colorful lifeguard stands. Further south, Crescent Beach and Turtle Beach reveal their own charming personality, recreational options and Gulf Coast beauty.

Nokomis Beach is Sarasota County’s oldest public beach and is a popular spot for shell comb- ing, boogie boarding and surfing. The south end of Casey Key, North Jetty Beach, is designed with visitors in mind and is great for spotting dolphins, manatees and pelicans cruising through the inlet. Picnic areas, concession stands, fishing opportunities and on-duty lifeguards attract families to this 18-acre park year-round.

This is the northernmost and longest island along Sarasota’s coast, boasting 12 miles of pristine shoreline. During the summer season, Longboat Key is a popular beach for turtles to nest and lay their eggs. Enjoy relaxing views of the Gulf Coast of Mexico, smaller crowds and a laid-back vibe at this relaxing destination. For easier parking, head to Bayfront Park or Whitney Beach, where showers and public restrooms also reside.

The key received its name when John Ringling, a fan of Italian culture, referred to its three white- sand beaches by using the Italian word “lido,” which means “beach.” North Lido offers lesser crowds, hiking trails and an unspoiled shoreline while the main Lido Beach—replete with lifeguards on duty, parking and a public pavilion with a cafe and bathrooms, is great to post up for the whole day. For those looking to paddle the mangrove tunnels or grill out on the barbecues, South Lido Beach Park delights.

Sarasota’s most southern key offers four beaches—Manasota, Blind Pass Beach, Englewood Beach and Stump Pass Beach State Park—and attracts nature lovers and beachgoers alike. From sand dunes and mangroves to driftwood forests and picnic tables, Manasota Key is great for those looking to escape the crowds, explore tucked-away sections of shoreline and admire Florida flora and fauna.

Anna Maria Island is divided into three cities: Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, and the City of Anna Maria.

Coquina Beach, Cortez Beach, and Manatee Public Beach are the only beaches in Manatee County that provide beachgoers with professional lifeguard and medical rescue services.

Located on State Road 64 and Gulf Drive in
Holmes Beach, one of the best things about the Manatee Public Beach is all of the amenities that are included nearby. Of course, you’ll find the white sandy beach and the beautiful blue clear waters. There are grills, picnic tables, concession stand, restrooms, showers, volleyball and a playground.

The northernmost beach on Anna Maria Island is Bean Point Beach, located in the City of Anna Maria. This section is much smaller than many of the island’s other beaches, but the good news is that it’s not a popular tourist spot. In fact, many tourists don’t even know it exists! You can stroll along the shoreline for beautiful views of Tampa Bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Coquina Beach is located in Anna Maria Island’s southernmost community, Bradenton Beach. This section of shoreline is still quite popular but is noticeably less crowded than Manatee Public Beach. You’ll still find fantastic facilities for families like lifeguards, a concession stand, a playground, a multi-purpose paved trail, volleyball courts, restrooms, and more.

Bayfront Park is a family-friendly beach more known for the park section that’s the ideal location for a beach picnic! Your kids can enjoy the playground and run around in the large grassy space while you find some shade underneath a tall tree. Facilities here include restrooms and showers, pavilions with tables, grills, benches, and more. 

Cortez Beach is located in the quaint town of Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island. This coastal haven is a must-visit for those exploring the beaches in the area. It runs about 2000 feet (nearly seven football fields!), with the Cortez Pier and Coquina Beach located just south. The pier is especially nice for searching for marine life and fishing.