Tips for Your Best Beach Day Ever
Tips for Your Best Beach Day Ever
A beach day isn’t just about surf and sand—it’s about soaking up the warm sun and creating memories that linger long after the tide goes out. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family, planning ahead ensures your beach day on Florida’s Gulf Coast is as smooth as the gentle surf.
Shore is fun
The Bradenton Area is home to a variety of stunning beaches, most of which stretch along the seven sandy miles of Anna Maria Island. This charming barrier island is made up of three distinct cities: Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach, each offering unique coastal experiences.

Bean Point, at the island’s northern tip in the city of Anna Maria, is a secluded spot perfect for quiet relaxation and spectacular sunsets amongst the dunes. Manatee Public Beach, located in Holmes Beach, is ideal for families as it provides family-friendly amenities like a playground, picnic tables, and lifeguarded areas to ensure a safe beach day. Further south down the island, Cortez Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere with fewer crowds and convenient, nearby parking. Just before heading over the bridge to Longboat Key sits Coquina Beach, where shade covered pavilions, paved walking trails, and a popular beach café serving beach favorites await beachgoers.

Across Longboat Pass, Longboat Key’s Whitney Beach provides an unforgettable escape, perfect for shelling and long, peaceful walks. For an off-the-beach experience, head to Greer AKA Beer Can Island on the northern end of Longboat Key. Don’t let the name fool you—this secluded stretch of sand features striking driftwood sculptures shaped by the tides, offering a unique and photogenic landscape.

Ready, Set, Relax
When it comes to comfort, a well-planned beach set-up can make all the difference. Many locals recommend a sturdy umbrella or pop-up canopy for shade, along with a few lightweight, folding chairs or a beach blanket for lounging. Bring along a mesh bag to easily transport toys, towels, and other seaside essentials. While you have fun in the sun, a hat, sunglasses, and frequent application of a high-SPF sunblock will help keep you protected for an extended excursion. To protect sensitive marine ecosystems, opt for a reef-safe, hand-applied sunscreen.
Looking for convenience? Local island businesses offer a no-fuss beach experience.
My Beach Concierge, Beach Suites, CabanUp and AMI Cabanas all provide luxury beach set-up services. Each are small, family-owned businesses with your comfort top of mind. With a simple online reservation, umbrellas, chairs, and even full cabanas will be ready and waiting at your beach of choice. This hassle-free option leaves more time for fun and relaxation.
Beachside Bites
A great beach day requires the perfect snacks! Pack a cooler or tote with refreshing drinks, like water, iced tea, or sparkling beverages to stay hydrated. For food, keep it simple and beach-friendly: sandwiches, fresh fruit, trail mix, and light, pre-packaged snacks. When possible, reach for reusable water bottles and food containers to keep everything organized and to minimize waste. Remember to follow one of our Love It Like a Local principles of depositing your trash and recyclables in the appropriate bins, leaving only your footprints behind.
For those who prefer to travel light, the cafes at Manatee Public Beach and Coquina Beach have you covered. Grab a meal or a snack without leaving the sand, and enjoy local favorites like pancakes (yes, pancakes!) and crispy grouper sandwiches from the Anna Maria Island Beach Café, or a refreshing coconut creme colada at Coquina Beach.


Shore is fun
Elevate your beach day with a luxurious and relaxing experience by treating yourself to a beachfront massage by Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-tiki. Located steps from a secluded shoreline, this charming, palm-thatched Chickee hut located on Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort‘s Private Beach is the perfect place to relax. Imagine the sound of gentle waves as you drift into complete relaxation under the skilled hands of a licensed massage therapist—pure bliss.
Everyone’s Beach
The Bradenton Area’s beaches are celebrated not only for their natural beauty but also for their accessibility. At Coquina Beach and Manatee Public Beach, visitors will find ADA-compliant parking and restrooms, ensuring convenience for all. Manatee Public Beach provides a wheelchair-accessible beach mat extending well over 100 feet into the sand, inviting everyone to experience the Gulf’s stunning shores with ease.
Make the most of the coast
Planning the perfect beach day is all about the details. From selecting the ideal stretch of sand to packing the right snacks, the Bradenton Area has everything you need for a memorable day (or two!) by the water. After all, the beauty of any beach day is how effortlessly it turns into a perfect one—from the first step onto the sand to the last glimpse of the sunset.


Find your perfect Beach
Our picturesque slice of Florida’s Gulf Coast offers a quintessential beach getaway for every personality.

Discover our Charm
Dip your toes in sugar white sands, pull up a chair at locally sourced restaurants and immerse yourself in unspoiled beauty, rich history, and the easy pace of island life.