Visit Bean Point on Anna Maria Island

What brings people to Anna Maria Island? Tourists are drawn to the island’s Old Florida feel and its paradisical weather and coastline. Beaches are the prime attraction, and you will find visitors sunbathing or building sandcastles at any point in the year. However, if you are looking for something a little more secluded, something off-the-beaten-path, Bean Point may be the best beach for you. 

bean point beach in anna maria island

History

The recorded history of Bean Point stretches back to 1892 when George Emerson Bean, founder of the island, selected the northern tip of the island for a 160-acre homestead. With the help of his son, he began developing the area around his home. 

After Bean’s death in 1898, he left the development of the island in the hands of his son. Eventually, the land that is now Bean Point became public land, available for any visitor to Anna Maria Island to enjoy. This part of the island is steeped in history, and it is also one of the most beautiful places around.

Directions to Bean Point

There are several options to get to Bean Point. The most direct entrances are at the corners of North Bay Boulevard and North Shore, Fern Street and North Shore Drive, and Gladiolus Street and North Shore. Each entrance is clearly marked with a small white “Public Beach Access” sign.

For those who prefer the more scenic route to Bean Point, head North to the City Pier on North Bay Boulevard. You’ll find the main entrance to Bean Point at a small crossroads where a tree-line path divides the two properties at the intersection of North Bay Boulevard and North Shore Drive. From there, head up the nearest path and turn right when you get to the sand. Continue north to the point for the best views, which include the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Amenities & Parking

Part of Bean Point’s charm is its relative seclusion. This means amenities are scarce – no bathrooms, picnic benches, or parking lot. 

Parking is permitted in some street parking spots on Fern Street and Gladiolus Street. Limited parking is also available on Jacaranda Road near the footbridge entrance. Be careful not to accidentally park in a no-parking zone; otherwise, you are almost certain to get a ticket.

Since car parking is not plentiful, it may be easiest to take the footbridge entrance. Bikers can leave their bikes just to the side of the classic, wooden footbridge near the entrance.

Plan Your Next Stay

Make your vacation even more memorable by booking one of our Anna Maria Island rentals with a pool. Even when you leave the beach, you don’t have to stray far from the water! Our vacation rentals provide full luxury and comfort, with some even providing oceanfront views. If this sounds like your dream vacation, contact us today and turn your dream into reality. 

Things to Do

kids in ocean

While Bean Point may not offer much in terms of amenities, its privacy and stunning beauty more than make up for this. Here you avoid the densely packed crowds of other public beaches, and you will always find a nice spot along the sand to set up your beach towel to suntan, sleep, or have a picnic. The seclusion makes it a particularly romantic spot; consider taking your significant other for a special date at Bean Point! Be sure to stick around for the sunset, which is absolutely magical. 

Shelling is another great activity, particularly for low tide when you can reach the sand bar just off the coast. There are countless seashells free for the taking that make great souvenirs! Also, because there are so few humans, the local wildlife is especially active, and so there are many great opportunities to spot stunning bird species.