Plan a Visit to Coquina Beach in Anna Maria Island

Coquina Beach is a stunning destination on Anna Maria Island that allows you to enjoy your vacation, relax, see amazing sites, and so much more.

It is the longest stretch of beach on the southern end of Anna Maria Island within the Gulf of Mexico.

Stay in one of our Bradenton Beach rentals and spend time with friends and family on the shores every day!

History

Anna Maria Island is rich in history. Anna Maria Island is connected to Bradenton on the Florida mainland and has two small bridges. The island itself is seven miles long and was named after Ana-Maria-Cay in honor of the Virgin Mary as well as her mother, Anne. The Spanish explored the area around 1530, but the first actual settlers were farmers, fishermen, and warriors who stayed in the Bradenton area.  

From 1921 to 1922, the first bridge was created, which connected the island to the mainland. This development meant that the community was finally able to grow! The Anna Maria Historical Society allows you to find out so much of the history of the area including the early settlement on the island and how Bradenton Beach was developed. Additionally, Historic Bridge Street is an extremely popular area rich in history that you can still visit today. It has shops, restaurants, and rentals nearby and is just moments away from Coquina Beach!

Directions to Coquina Beach

Getting to Coquina Beach (or any of the other incredible Anna Maria Island beaches) is easy no matter where you’re staying on the island. To reach Coquina Beach, simply make your way to Gulf Drive South and follow it all the way to the southern end of the island. You can’t miss it! All throughout the island, there are free trolleys that can be ridden at any point of the day if you don’t want to deal with driving. The trolley has tons of stops across AMI with a convenient stop right at Coquina Beach. The best part is that the trolley is completely free! Once you arrive, you’ll see the park entrance to the beach on your left.

Amenities & Parking

Along with the free Anna Maria Island trolley, parking is also free within Anna Maria Island. There’s plenty of parking available near Coquina Beach, but it can fill up fast, especially during the summertime.

There are also many amenities within the area. Some of these include bike racks, game tables, gift shops, grills, picnic tables, playground for children, restrooms, showers outside, volleyball court, water fountains, wheelchair beach, and much more. 

Things to Do

There are plenty of activities to do nearby Coquina Beach on Anna Maria Island. You will be so happy you came! The beach itself has amazing sand dunes, fun shells, warm water, and large trees in case you need some shade. The area sometimes has sea turtles that come to visit! The sand is perfect for sunbathing, going for a walk, and making fun castles with kids. 

Riding a rental bike can be great! There are many trails if you are looking to get some exercise and see the area on a fun and scenic ride. You can also experience high-end shopping in the area! Whether you forgot your items or you are looking for new bathing suits, there are plenty of options. Finally, there are great restaurants in the area that you will love! Sit outside and enjoy a burger or a delicious beverage and enjoy the ocean breeze.