Planning a beach day or longer stay on Anna Maria Island? The easiest way to enjoy this laid-back Gulf Coast barrier island is to pick up a rental car in Sarasota. With your own vehicle, you control your schedule, skip crowded shuttles, and hop between beaches, restaurants, and attractions at your own pace.
Getting There
Two scenic routes from Sarasota
Manatee Avenue (SR-64)
Takes you into Holmes Beach and the City of Anna Maria. Best for accessing northern beaches and Pine Avenue shops.
- Direct to Holmes Beach
- Access to Bean Point
- Near Pine Avenue shops
Cortez Road (SR-684)
Takes you to Bradenton Beach and Coquina Beach. Pass through the charming Cortez fishing village.
- Direct to Coquina Beach
- Historic Cortez village
- More parking options
Pro Tip: Time Your Crossing
Bridges can back up on weekend afternoons and during peak season. Having your own vehicle helps you time arrivals and departures intelligently. Arrive before 9 AM for easier bridge traffic and beach parking, or wait until late afternoon when day-trippers are heading back.
Beach Hopping Guide
Use your car as your "beach locker"
Manatee Public Beach
Great for families with lifeguards on duty and plenty of room
Family FriendlyCoquina Beach
Long shoreline with shady pine trees just off the sand
Relaxed & ShadedBean Point
Quieter with beautiful views — currents can be stronger
Scenic SunsetsTrunk Tip: Keep chairs, umbrellas, and a change of clothes packed in your trunk. If one beach is crowded, just hop to another!
Best Times to Visit
| Season | Weather | Crowds | Driving & Parking Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec – Mar | Mild, comfortable, low humidity | High | Arrive before 9 AM for easier bridge traffic |
| Apr – May | Warm, mostly dry | Moderate | Great for flexible day trips; roads manageable |
| Jun – Aug | Hot, humid, afternoon storms | High | Plan beach time early or late in the day |
| Sep – Nov | Warm, variable weather | Lower | Enjoy easier parking and lighter traffic |
Why a Rental Car Makes It Easier
Choose Your Beach
Check conditions and crowd levels, then drive to the best spot instead of settling for the closest trolley stop
Carry More Gear
Keep chairs, coolers, toys, and umbrellas in the trunk instead of hauling them on and off the trolley
Time Your Day
Arrive early to beat the heat and leave when kids get tired, without waiting for scheduled pickups
Explore Beyond
Visit Cortez fishing village, mainland restaurants, or other Sarasota attractions in the same day
Local Tips & Hidden Gems
Bean Point
Secluded north-end beach with limited parking. Go early, park legally, and pack light. Incredible sunsets.
Pine Avenue
Short walkable street with boutiques, bakeries, and casual dining. Park once and explore on foot.
Rod & Reel Pier
Classic Old Florida pier with fishing and no-frills dining. Parking is tight — off-peak hours are best.
Coquina Baywalk
Just south of Coquina Beach, nature trails and boardwalks perfect for a short walk after beach time.
Family-Friendly Planning
Ready for Your Anna Maria Island Trip?
Pick up a rental car in Sarasota and make the most of your Gulf Coast adventure. Browse our fleet and book ahead for the best selection.