Palmetto Avenue Beach

Located close to the northern point of the island, Palmetto Avenue Beach is more secluded and pristine than some other beaches in the area. It’s a lovely, quiet and uncrowded escape on the gulf side where you can enjoy some relaxing sunbathing or swimming in clear turquoise waters. But be aware that there are neither lifeguards nor facilities on this beach, so plan in advance and bring everything you may need with you.

Location and Access

Palmetto Avenue Beach is located at 100 Palmetto Avenue on Anna Maria Island. Turn off Gulf Drive onto Palm Avenue or Magnolia Avenue to reach the beach. It’s the closest beach to the area’s main downtown shopping.

You can find parking by Gulf Boulevard – it’s limited but free and there is only street parking available. If you worry about parking, it might be a good idea to travel around the island by bike – the distances are rather short. The beach is open from 12 a. m. to midnight.

No Facilities

Don’t expect to find restroom or shower facilities, playgrounds, bars, beach or watersport rentals – the absence of the above mentioned is a regular price for tranquility and seclusion on such a beautiful Florida beach.

Sand and Water

This clean and well-maintained beach boasts very soft sugar-white sand. The gulf waters are clear and turquoise here – some of the best on the West Coast. Swimming on a hot summer day is absolutely enjoyable, but please experience cation when in the water – there are no lifeguards on site.

Shelling

On this beach, you have good chances to find some intact long-hidden shells, especially if you check the foliage. It is possible to find beautiful unbroken shells that no one else has seen yet. There aren’t too many visitors, so the competition isn’t high.

Dog Policies

Unfortunately for dog owners, it is not permitted to bring pets to the beach.

Driving Time

• 1 hour 5 minutes from Tampa, FL
• 2 hours 10 minutes from Orlando, FL
• 3 hours 50 minutes from Miami, FL

Hotels and rentals

If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:

• Nearby rentals from VRBO.
• Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.

Beaches nearby

Additionally, there's a number of beaches near Palmetto Avenue Beach which you can visit:

• Bean Point Beach (1 mile)
• Manatee Public Beach (2 miles)
• Bradenton Beach (4 miles)
• Cortez Beach (5 miles)
• Coquina Beach (6 miles)