Cortez Fishing Village

Have you ever wondered what Florida used to look like before developers moved in? A few decades ago, there were plenty of small fishing communities rich with charm and local culture. Now, it can be hard to find a place that hasn’t been taken over by resorts. Fortunately, Cortez Village is one place where tourists can still visit to find that “Old Florida” feel, no matte Anna Maria Island vacation rental you choose to stay in.

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History

What started as a rural fishing community in the 1890s remains one of Florida’s last authentic fishing villages and is an important part of Anna Maria Island’s history. Though surrounded by the sprawling urban center of Bradenton, it retains its old Florida charm. Descendants of the village’s original inhabitants still live in Cortez today.

The village contains many original cottages and active commercial fishing businesses that have been operating for decades. 

Locals of Cortez take great pride in their history and work hard to preserve the legacy of the area. As a result of their efforts, Cortez Village is included in the National Register of Historic Places.

Location

Cortez Village is located right off Anna Maria Island across the Cortez Bridge. It’s an easy walk from the island. If you choose to drive, just be aware that traffic can get quite backed up. The only through street is the causeway, and traffic grinds to a halt when the drawbridge opens.

Things to Do

For such a small village, there’s more to do than you might expect! Local shops, such as The Beach Stop, offer beachwear and gear. Places like Cortez Surf & Paddle Shop provide souvenirs, swimwear, bike rentals, kayaks, stand up paddleboards, and anything else you might need for water sports.

As many locals are seasoned fishers, you may consider booking a charter and heading out with an experienced captain to learn a thing or two. Deepwater surrounding the area is buffered by barrier islands, which makes Cortez an ideal fishing spot. 

Much of Cortez’s charm lies in its history. By preserving their traditional way of life, locals have prevented the area from being overtaken by high-rises and resorts. The village now serves as a living testament to what much of coastal Florida once looked like. 

One of the best ways to experience this history is simply by walking around. Tour the docks or local fisheries and see the remaining houses of the original founding families. Most still stand today. 

Plan Your Visit

Book your trip to Anna Maria Island and be sure to set aside time to visit Cortez fishing village! Contact us for more information.

The Florida Maritime Museum is another way to step back in time. Exhibits and classes teach skills of the past to preserve maritime history. Such skills include knot tying, constructing a fishing rod, Native American heritage, sailing, and more. Visitors can also peruse old books, logs, diaries, and letters to gain a better understanding of the life of early fishermen in the region. Visit from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday at 4415 119th Street West. 

Of course, one cannot fully experience Cortez Village without trying some of the delicious Anna Maria Island seafood restaurants. Places like Star Fish Company and Tide Tables Restaurant and Marina provide glorious waterfront views with fresh seafood platters. They offer a casual environment with food at affordable prices. Try dishes like blackened Mahi sandwich, smoked mullet, or conch fritters. You won’t be disappointed!

Book Your Anna Maria Island Vacation Rentals With Mike Norman Realty

Cortez Village is quite small, but it certainly merits a day trip from Anna Maria Island. After a day wandering the historic sites, window shopping, and dining on the freshest seafood, return to your luxury rental on the island to rest and relax. Our Anna Maria Island waterfront vacation rentals include condos, homes, and villas to meet all needs and budgets. We offer a wide selection of waterfront properties, so you never have to stray too far from the sand and waves.