What is the difference between Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island?
Holmes Beach is one of the three communities located on Anna Maria Island. It is located in the middle of the island between Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach and is the largest of the three.
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Bordered to the north by the City of Anna Maria and to the south by the city of Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach boasts three miles of gorgeous white, sandy beaches and an endless amount of turquoise water.
While Holmes Beach offers a small-town feel, family-friendly atmosphere, and quiet nights, Bradenton Beach offers a lively atmosphere, fun nightlife, and a more urban feel.
Coquina Beach is a great place to spend your vacation, as it has a private and laid back vibe compared to some of the other public beaches on Anna Maria Island. It's often less crowded than Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach, but offers just as many amenities. A beautiful setting to enjoy water activities.
Villefranche-sur-mer (public beach)It has very small, fine pebbles (closer to sand) and is probably the most popular of the public beaches. It offers a good choice in restaurants and ice cream kiosks just on the other side of the road.
With white-sand beaches, beautiful blue water, swaying sea oats, and incredible sunrises and sunsets, Florida's Anna Maria Island is one of the most scenic destinations in the state. Add to that the salt air and a plethora of waterfront restaurants serving up fresh seafood and you have a feast for all the senses.
The Gulf waters are usually warm, making for a lovely swimming experience. However, there are a couple of exceptions. The first is Bean Point, located at the extreme northern end of the island, where strong currents can make swimming dangerous.
Bean Point Beach, Anna Maria IslandThe island is known for its relaxed atmosphere, and for its beautiful clear water beaches that are ideal for some well-deserved relaxation.
The three main beaches on the island are Anna Maria Bayfront Park, Manatee Public Beach, and Coquina Beach. All of these locations have various public access points to get you to the shore. Bayfront Park has tons of parking at 310 N. Bay Boulevard, but be aware that it fills up quickly on weekends.
Anna Maria is more downscale -- relaxed -- ramshackle. Lots of funky older cottages and places to stay, family style restaurants, souvenier shopping. Although it does have at least one really good restaurant (Beach Bistro). Sanibel is more high scale (and of course a lot more expensive to go with it).