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Visiting Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key Responsibly

The beaches of Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key are open again. We’re happy to welcome you back to enjoy our beautiful island beaches and surrounding businesses safely and responsibly. We suggest following these tips to help you get the most out of your visit to Florida’s West Coast.

Create Your Own “Private” Beach

Getting back to the beach will be at the top of everyone’s to-do list. To ensure you’re enjoying our island beaches while remaining safe, create your own personal beach space. We suggest literally drawing a line in the sand, specifically a circle, around your towels, chairs, and umbrellas that is six feet away from your stuff on all sides. This creates a safe space for you and your small beach party. Plus, with multiple serene island beaches found throughout the area, there’s plenty of space to call your own.

We’re in This Together…Six Feet Apart

Whether you’re standing in line for an ice cream cone on the island or to shower off the sand, keep your distance from strangers. At least six feet of distance to be exact. From standing in line to walking along the shore, remain six feet from strangers.

Ten’s Company, but Eleven’s a Crowd

We get it. You want to get the gang back together for a beach day. Well, not so fast. If you’re keeping it to just the VIPs, you’re probably fine. However, we’re recommending no one gather in groups of any more than 10 people. If your crew has more than 10 people, you’ll just have to schedule another gorgeous beach day to make sure you get to see everyone…darn.

Move Over Sunscreen

Okay, yes, sunscreen is still very important. But adding a bottle of hand sanitizer to your beach bag is now also essential. From using public restrooms to visiting island shops and restaurants, you may come into contact with a lot of surfaces touched by other people. Hand sanitizer in between washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds will help protect you and those around you.

Keep Covered Up

Many cities are suggesting everyone wear masks when out in public, be it store-bought, homemade, or improvised from a handkerchief. While wearing a mask is not a replacement for social distancing, be sure to break out that mask whenever you get around groups of other people. Masks are required when it comes to being inside businesses in the Bradenton Area so be sure to pack one (or a few) when planning your vacation wardrobe. Wearing a mask doesn’t just keep you safe, it keeps everyone around you safe, and that in turn keeps our entire destination happy and healthy.

Go Out to Eat

Restaurants have reopened at varying levels of capacity. However, even if in-door seating is available, we’re recommending you sit outside whenever possible. There are two great reasons why outdoor seating is the best option. First, you’re dining in a safer, more open environment with fresh air and more space between you and other guests. Second, the view. Our waterfront restaurants offer incredible food and views that are best enjoyed outdoors. Or order takeout from a local restaurant and bring it to the beach for a dining experience unlike anywhere else. So, raise a glass to a beautiful sunset and a safer experience when visiting Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key. Florida’s West Coast.

And if you're itching for a Bradenton Area vacation but you're not quite ready to travel we have you covered. Visit our Bring Bradenton Home page for tons of virtual experiences, coloring pages, games and more. And don't worry, the beach will be here when you're ready. 

More to Explore

Beach Responsibly

The tranquility of the island lifestyle, the salty smell of the fresh Gulf air, the warm sand between your toes, and more than enough space to free your mind, body and spirit. And that's only the start of our island beaches. 

Foodie Favorites

Set your taste buds free with island-inspired dishes passed down through generations. Choose from picturesque waterfront restaurants or one-of-a-kind meals reflecting our unique and diverse culture. 

Our Accommodations

Save on beautiful accommodations on and off the water including breathtaking views, luxury amenities, and everything else you need to get back out to Florida’s West Coast. Deals change often, so check back for the latest offers.