HURRICANE IAN UPDATE: For the latest travel advisories and destination updates click here.
Help us take care of the beloved Bradenton Area by learning how you can visit responsibly and protect this paradise.
We’ve teamed up with Keep Manatee Beautiful to host the Love it Like a Local Coastal Clean-Up on Saturday, October 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m! Come on out and show us how you love the Bradenton Area like a local by preserving our destination’s beauty for years to come! The first 100 sign ups get a free commemorative long-sleeve rash guard.
Pick up. Clean up. – When visiting the beach, be sure to leave it clean and litter free. The shorebirds would thank you, if they could talk.
Keep it out of the water – Never throw trash, food, fishing line or other items into area waterways. Fish and turtles prefer clean homes, just like us!
Use eco-friendly transportation – Opt for free beach trolleys, electric golf carts, bikes and more while you’re here and give your car a vacation, too!
Save the ocean. Use lotion. – Aerosol sunscreens release airborne chemicals into the environment. Be sure to use liquids instead and look for biodegradable ingredients!
Slow down to Island Time – You’re on vacation. So why speed? Watch for local speed limits and be sure to follow them.
Know the lay of land – Several parks and preserves are off limits or restricted. Be sure to only visit where permitted.
Respect the locals – It may seem like one, big paradise; but parking on lawns, in other’s driveways, or walking across yards are no no’s.
Be a good neighbor – Whether at your rental, hotel or on the beach, keep the noise in check and avoid blaring music or other behavior that may annoy others.
Keep the noise to a minimum. – Our communities have a nightly noise ordinance beginning at 10 p.m. So be sure to bring the party inside and keep your voices low for those who aren’t on vacation.
Do your part – When you’re on vacation, remember to relax, recharge, but also recycle!
Shop local – Shopping local = supporting Bradenton Area businesses, which funds projects that keep our destination beautiful.
Keep your distance from wildlife – Our local wildlife love their personal space, so always maintain a safe distance.
Choose to reuse – Pass on plastic and pick reusable bags, straws, water bottles and utensils
Protect the plantlife – Mangroves, sea oats and seagrass are an important part of our ecosystem, so please don’t pick our plants for mom!
Remember the turtles – Be sure you keep your lights dimmed at night from May-October so our turtle hatchlings do not confuse your dinner party for the ocean!
Drive Dutifully – In the #BradentonArea golf carts are the way to go. Be sure to follow all driving rules and keep all unlicensed minors buckled in safely, but never behind the wheel!
Be a good boater – Manatees are slow movers, so remember to cruise carefully, respect no wake zones and all signs while on the water.
Keep wildlife off the line – Gone fishing? When it’s time to reel it in, please cut and properly dispose of your fishing line to keep birds and other marine life from getting caught in it.
Watch the videos below to learn more ways to #LoveItLikeaLocal from a true expert!
Start ‘em young! Even little ones can learn to Love It Like a Local! Teach your children all about Bradenton Area wildlife, beaches and visiting the right way.
