Ideal for everything from people watching to fishing, Anna Maria Island's public piers are great places to relax, enjoy beautiful views, and soak in the island atmosphere.
Anglers revel in the ample supply of snapper, jack crevalle, sheepshead, and black drum that linger near these Anna Maria Island piers. This is why the island is such a great destination for fishing, even for those who don't want to brave a deep sea fishing trip.
Each of the piers in this area is worth a visit to sample its unique offerings and views. These are iconic spots you won't want to miss during your trip, and all of them are close to our scenic vacation rentals.
Don't forget your camera, because you're sure to capture plenty of epic sights to share with friends and family back home.
1. Bridge Street Pier
Photo Credit: Mark Winfrey
Address: 200 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach
For a brilliant mix of nostalgic and modern Florida, the Bridge Street Pier is the place to be. Also known as the Bradenton Beach City Pier, this structure was built in the 1920s on the southern end/ bay side of the island.
The Bridge Street Pier sits in the heart of Bradenton Beach and is at the southern end of the island on Historic Bridge Street. The pier was once part of a bridge that served as the only access point to the island south of the mainland village of Cortez.
The Bridge Street Pier and Bridge Street serve as the shopping and dining hub of Anna Maria Island. Many tours and watersport excursions depart from this area, and you'll find lots of great bars and eateries. Grab an ice cream cone then take a walk along the pier, soaking in the ocean views and the lively atmosphere.
The pier features a host of recreational opportunities and modern amenities, including a pavilion, benches, a clock tower, a playground, a swing set for families to enjoy, and the island's best shopping. The pier is easily accessible via the free Anna Maria Island Trolley or the Gulf Islands Ferry.
Plan your visit around a meal or two to take advantage of stellar original eateries and ice cream parlors, like the Anna Maria Oyster Bar. This local favorite offers lunch and dinner set against spellbinding views of Sarasota Bay.
The Bridge Street Bait Shop, located near the pier entrance, offers fishing pole rentals and a host of other supplies for a productive day of angling.
2. The Anna Maria City Pier
Photo Credit: NYCKellyWilliams
Address: 100 South Bay Boulevard, Anna Maria
Note: Temporarily closed and due to reopen in fall 2026.
The Anna Maria City Pier is a historic landmark and one of the most popular attractions on the island. Considered one of the top attractions in Manatee County, this historic pier was originally built more than a century ago to facilitate the import and export of fish to St. Petersburg and Tampa.
The 700-foot-long structure is situated at the north end of the island off Pine Avenue, just south of Bayfront Park. It's a popular spot for catching watercolor sunrises and dramatic sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, along with breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which connects Bradenton and Sarasota.
Outdoor music and entertainment often occur at the Anna Maria Island City Pier, especially during the high season. The pier also serves as a landing spot for the Gulf Islands Ferry.
As a favorite hangout of pelicans and other migratory birds and marine life, it's a great spot for wildlife watching. Visitors can often see dolphins and manatees from the piers. It's also the perfect destination for angling, with a bait shop onsite for grabbing all the fishing supplies you need.
The longest of the island's piers, the City Pier sustained extensive damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017, prompting the city to demolish the original 1911 pier in 2018. The renovation cost $1.5 million and involved a complete rebuild. After a nearly three-year rebuild, the new Anna Maria City Pier opened on June 19, 2020.
Unfortunately, the City Pier suffered further extensive damage in the following years due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. It is currently being rebuilt again and is on track to reopen in fall, 2026.
Its ferry terminal, bait shop and restaurant look set to return, too, so you'll be able to grab breakfast before setting up for a full day's fishing.
3. Rod and Reel Pier
Photo Credit: Stephaniellen
Address: 875 N. Shore Dr., Anna Maria
Note: Closed with no date currently set for reopening.
The beloved Rod & Reel Pier was destroyed in 2024 by Hurricane Milton after already being heavily damaged by Hurricane Helene just weeks before.
The pier owners plan to rebuild once they raise the funds to do so. They have reopened their restaurant at a new site in Holmes Beach so be sure to drop in for a meal to support the cause, or visit their Facebook page for updates.
Located on the north end of the island, the Rod and Reel Pier was a staple on Anna Maria Island since its construction in 1947. The rustic 350-foot pier was known for its laid-back vibe and was especially popular for family fishing.
At the end of the pier, the catch of the day beckoned hungry pier-goers at The Rod and Reel Pier Restaurant, an AMI treasure.
With two levels of indoor and outdoor dining areas overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, it was one of the best places on this side of the island for grouper fish, crab cakes, and Key Lime Pie. Some of the freshest seafood dishes one the island are still available at the new restaurant.
Although it's unclear when Rod and Reel Pier will be rebuilt, the local community remains hopeful that the island's favorite fishing spot will be back in business one day in the future.
Hooked on Paradise: Your Anna Maria Island Pier Escape Starts Here
Anna Maria Island's piers aren't just places to cast a line or catch a sunset—they're where the island's charm really comes to life. From peaceful morning strolls to vibrant evening views, each pier offers its own little slice of coastal magic.
Whether you're here for fishing, photography, or simply soaking up the Gulf breeze, these spots are the kind you'll remember long after your trip ends.
If you're ready to experience it all for yourself, make your stay just as unforgettable as your adventures. Book one of our vacation homes and enjoy easy access to these beautiful piers, stunning beaches, and everything else the island has to offer.
