Beaches & Weather

Anna Maria Island Beach Rules & Turtle Nesting Guidelines

With 7 miles of soft, powdery white sand and turquoise Gulf waters, Anna Maria Island is a slice of paradise that draws visitors from around the world. To keep these pristine beaches beautiful and safe for everyone — and to protect our delicate coastal ecosystem — we ask that all visitors follow the official beach rules and guidelines below.

General Beach Rules

• No Alcohol – Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.

• No Glass Containers – To protect barefoot beachgoers and local wildlife, leave glass containers at home.

• No Open Fires or Fireworks – Open flames, bonfires, and fireworks are not permitted.

• No Camping or Overnight Parking – Vehicles, tents, and overnight stays are not allowed.

• No Unauthorized Vehicles or Bicycles – Only wheelchairs are permitted on the sand.

• No Watercraft in Swim Zones – Launching kayaks, jet skis, or boats from the beach or in designated swim areas is prohibited.

• No Dangerous Games or Throwing Objects – Avoid activities that could pose risks to others.

• No Horseback Riding – Horses are not permitted on the beach.

• No Littering – Dispose of all trash responsibly. If bins are full or unavailable, pack it out to help keep the beach clean.

• No Plastic Bags – Reduce plastic use to protect marine life.

• No Disturbing or Feeding Wildlife – Observe wildlife from a distance to avoid disrupting their natural behaviors.

• No Unauthorized Structures – Cabanas, tents, and other structures must follow city regulations.

• No Public Nudity or Disorderly Conduct – Respectful and family-friendly behavior is expected at all times.

• No Fishing in Swim Zones – Fishing is only allowed in designated areas.

• No Pets – Pets are not allowed on the beach (except for service dogs). Nearby Palma Sola Causeway Park and Bayfront Park are pet-friendly alternatives.

• No Unauthorized Vending or Concessions – Sales on the beach require a permit.

• No Organized Gatherings Without a Permit – Permits are required for events or group assemblies on the beach.

Sea Turtle Nesting Season Guidelines

Anna Maria Island is home to nesting sea turtles from May 1 through October 31. To protect these endangered creatures:

• Remove all personal items — such as chairs, umbrellas, tents, cabanas, and screen rooms — from the beach every evening. Unattended items can trap turtles or obstruct their nesting.

• Keep lights off along the beachfront after sunset to prevent hatchlings from becoming disoriented.

• Never disturb marked nests or hatchlings.

Whether your property is private or public, nightly removal of items is essential to keeping the beach safe for sea turtles and preserving the natural environment.

County Public Beach Parks

Certain public beaches on Anna Maria Island have specific rules and designated zones, often monitored by lifeguards:

• Anna Maria Bayfront Park

• Coquina Bayside Park

• Coquina Gulfside Park

• Manatee Beach Park

These parks provide amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and safe swimming zones to enhance your experience. Always review posted signs and follow lifeguard instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Plan Your Beach Day

Anna Maria Island is known for its pristine white sand beaches, but parking and access can vary depending on where you’re staying. To make your beach days stress-free, we recommend checking the Beach Access Points Map before you head out.

This interactive map highlights:

• Public Beach Accesses – clearly marked so you know exactly where to go.

• Parking Options – including lots and street parking closest to each access point.

• Nearby Landmarks – restaurants, shops, and restrooms that make planning easier.

• Proximity to Your Vacation Rental – so you can find the most convenient spot without extra driving around.

By planning ahead, you can skip the guesswork, avoid crowded areas, and choose the access point that best fits your day — whether that’s a quiet stretch of sand for a morning walk or easy parking near a popular beach for an afternoon swim.

View the Beach Access Points Map