Palmetto FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Palmetto, Florida.
1. Palmetto Avenue Beach
CRYSTAL CLEAR GULF WATERS
Palmetto Avenue Beach offers some of the cleanest, clearest Gulf water on the west coast of Florida. The beach is well maintained with pristine white sands and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Limited parking is available, so visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot at this hidden gem.
2. Manatee Public Beach
PARADISE WITH WHITE SANDS
Manatee Public Beach invites visitors to step into a personal paradise where soft, powdery white sand welcomes every step. Lifeguards are on duty 365 days a year, making it a safe option for families and swimmers of all ages. The beach features endless horizons and crystal-clear waters, creating the perfect escape for those seeking a slice of tranquil bliss.
3. Coquina Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY COASTAL RETREAT
Coquina Beach is a family-friendly destination along the stunning Gulf Coast. Visitors can enjoy the spacious shoreline that offers plenty of room for sunbathing, picnicking, and beach games without feeling crowded. The beach's gentle waves and amenities make it an ideal spot for families looking for a day of fun in the sun.
4. Holmes Beach
ISLAND'S POPULAR MIDDLE GROUND
Holmes Beach sits in the middle of Anna Maria Island, offering a popular stretch of coastline with ample parking, a playground, and picnic areas. The gentle waves and clear waters create perfect conditions for swimming, paddling, or simply wading in the refreshing Gulf. Its family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages seeking a complete beach day experience.
5. Bean Point
SECLUDED NORTHERN TIP
Bean Point offers a secluded escape at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island. This tranquil beach is renowned for its spectacular sunset views and peaceful atmosphere away from the more crowded areas. Visitors appreciate the pristine shoreline perfect for quiet walks, shelling, and connecting with nature without commercial distractions.
6. Bradenton Beach
RELAXATION MEETS RECREATION
Bradenton Beach provides the perfect blend of relaxation and recreational activities along a beautiful stretch of Gulf coastline. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the warm waters, sunbathing on the white sand, or engaging in various water sports available in the area. The beach's vibrant atmosphere is complemented by nearby dining options and shops, making it a complete destination for a day at the shore.
7. Palma Sola Causeway
SHALLOW WATERS BEACH PARK
Palma Sola Causeway offers a unique beach experience along the road connecting mainland Bradenton to Anna Maria Island. The shallow, calm waters make it perfect for families with young children and popular for activities like kiteboarding, paddleboarding, and kayaking. With easy parking along the causeway and picnic facilities, it's a convenient spot for impromptu beach outings and water recreation.
8. Cortez Beach
SURFER'S PARADISE POINT
Cortez Beach attracts water sports enthusiasts with its relatively active surf compared to other area beaches. The shoreline features rock jetties that create ideal conditions for fishing and exploring marine life in tidal pools. This less crowded beach offers beautiful views of the Gulf and is particularly popular among surfers and those seeking a more active beach experience.
9. Lido Beach
UPSCALE COASTAL GETAWAY
Lido Beach presents an upscale coastal experience with powdery white sand and turquoise waters just a short drive from Palmetto. The beach is surrounded by St. Armands Circle, offering high-end shopping and dining options for a complete day trip. Visitors appreciate the clean facilities, concession stands, and the less crowded atmosphere compared to some of the region's more popular beaches.
10. Beer Can Island
DRIFTWOOD BEACH PARADISE
Beer Can Island (officially Greer Island) features a unique landscape of weathered driftwood, fallen trees, and natural beach formations unlike any other in the region. This remote beach at the north end of Longboat Key offers excellent shelling, fishing, and photography opportunities in a more natural, undeveloped setting. Accessible primarily by boat or a walk from Whitney Beach, its secluded nature provides visitors with a sense of discovering a hidden coastal treasure.