Florida is a state known for its warm weather and beaches, which makes it a great destination for spending time outdoors. In particular, there are many islands around Florida that are worth discovering and exploring. One of the best, in our opinion, is Anna Maria Island, on the Gulf Coast south of Tampa Bay.
While we offer luxurious beachfront vacation rentals on the island, that isn't exactly why it's our favorite. Anna Maria Island has a gorgeous coastline, fascinating history, and some of the best bike paths in the country.
Locals know all the best Anna Maria Island bike trails, but tourists often need a guiding hand to find the best ones for their trip. These are our five favorite places to bike on Anna Maria Island.
1. Coquina Beach Bike Path
Photo Credit: Isogood_patrick
If you're looking for a great bike path on the beach, you should check out the Coquina Bike Path or Coquina Beach Alley Trail. With turquoise-blue waters, you can explore the edge of Anna Maria Island on foot or by bike here. The bike trail itself is just under three miles long, and it's well worth taking for the full ride.
Not only do you get to enjoy the scenic trail by bike, but once you get through it, you're in the heart of Bradenton Beach. Here you can explore local shops, restaurants, and other offerings.
Coquina Beach is open from sunrise to midnight on most days. Parking is free and there are extensive amenities including concessions, grills, picnic tables, bathrooms, volleyball courts, rinse showers, and, of course, bike racks.
Coquina Beach is also known for its sea turtles. From May through the end of October, there are chances to see turtles nesting on the beach. It's a remarkable sight, but it also needs to be respected. Don't approach the turtles or nests, don't use lights on the beach, and avoid disturbing the turtles in any way.
2. Lake Manatee State Park
Photo Credit: Sandrine Messier
Lake Manatee State Park lies some 23 miles from Anna Maria Island on the mainland, but it's well worth visiting. Extending three miles along the shore of Lake Manatee, this park is an amazing place to come for a bike ride.
Within the wilderness of the park are several miles of paved and unpaved paths to explore. Visitors can swim, fish, and boat on the lake. There are lots of opportunities to spot wildlife, too.
State parks in Florida are incredible places to spend time with your family. However, as they're run by the state, there are a few rules and expectations that you may not see everywhere else. For instance, there is a small fee to enter the park: $5 per vehicle or $2 per pedestrian or cyclist.
You should also keep in mind that there are strict hours that you're allowed in the park, and they do enforce capacity limits. Although there are ample facilities like restrooms, picnic tables, and showers, bike rentals are not available on site so you'll have to bring your own bikes.
3. Robinson Preserve
Photo Credit: Ken Schulze
The first thing that you need to know about Robinson Preserve is that it's massive, sitting at 487 acres. There are several paths to choose from, including the popular Spoonbill Trail and Osprey Loop for more advanced bikers.
The preserve was once farmland before being reclaimed as an amazing nature preserve that highlights both Florida wetlands and the coastline. With 7.5 miles of bike paths, this is one of the can't-miss stops for travelers with their own bikes exploring the southwest coast.
The preserve's trails are paved, for the most part. It does have sections of trail that are boardwalk and sand. One of the best parts of this biking area is the observation tower that you can climb for views of historic Fort De Soto.
Located in northwest Bradenton, the Robison Preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, the Valentine House visitor center has limited hours, so make sure that you check those before you visit.
Along with cycling, there is room to camp, fish, and kayak throughout the preserve. Leashed dogs are allowed here, and in a dog-friendly state like Florida, you can expect to see plenty of them. Alcohol, littering, drones, and anything that could damage the preserve's environment are prohibited.
4. City of Bradenton Beach
Photo Credit: Pelow Media
Bradenton Beach has loads of activities to choose from, but cycling is a popular one. It lies on the southern end of Anna Maria Island, and its paths offer gorgeous views of the city, the Gulf, and the area's parks and beaches.
One of the best places to ride is Gulf Drive, which is the main thoroughfare that cuts directly through the city and forms part of the Bradenton Beach Scenic Highway.
In total, there are about five miles worth of dedicated bike paths to explore here, and it's worth remembering that both cyclists and pedestrians can use them. It's a great neighborhood to explore at sunset when you can see spectacular views over the Gulf of Mexico.
You can also ride down to Longboat Key via the Longboat Pass Bridge. You'll find peaceful beaches and lots of great places to eat on Longboat Key.
5. Anna Maria Island Beach Walk
Photo Credit: Sam Campos
The city of Anna Maria has some of the best bike paths on the entire island. Starting in Anna Maria, you will find it fairly easy to navigate the entire north and west coast of the island from the Anna Maria Island Beach Walk bike trail. Taking this path in the evening is a great way to enjoy a sunset before or after dinner.
The city as a whole is designed with bikers in mind and has ample bike rental shops, should you be flying in and unable to bring your own bike. The downtown area is particularly accessible to cyclists, so head out on two wheels to explore the range of shops, restaurants, and lively bars.
Tips For Biking on Anna Maria Island
Photo Credit: Mark Winfrey
Here are a few helpful tips to help you explore Anna Maria Island freely.
- There are plenty of local bike rental shops if you don't vacation with your own.
- Anna Maria Island is an excellent place for both beginner and experienced bikers.
- Most paths are multi-use trails, so you'll be joined by all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts.
- Follow normal Florida traffic laws while biking and always wear a helmet.
- The local island trolley has a bike rack and will transport you and your bicycle, totally free.
- For anyone under the age of 16, helmets are required by law in the entire state of Florida.
What Makes Biking on Anna Maria Island Unique?
As with many other destinations in Florida, you can bike around Anna Maria Island year-round. However, Anna Maria Island is one of a kind. There is a big local effort to preserve both history and nature here. In fact, there are regulations on what types of buildings and businesses can be built or opened on Anna Maria Island, which help to maintain its quaint island charm.
Yes, you can see a perfect sunset on white-sand beaches, but you can also see unconventional historic sites, like the Old City Jail. Biking is therefore one of the best ways to enjoy the island's old Spanish architecture, old Florida history, and gorgeous natural ecosystems at your own pace.
Things to Remember Before Biking on Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island isn't just one town. Rather, there are three cities on the island: Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, and Anna Maria. This can make directions and addresses slightly confusing if you're not familiar with the area. So, make sure that you pay close attention.
You can also find more than just bikes for rent throughout the island. Think kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, and golf carts. The choice is yours!
Interestingly, despite being a lovely city on Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach has no official bike paths. There are bike lanes on Gulf Drive, which bicyclists love to ride on, but it is a road shared with vehicles. It's a bike-friendly city, just not one with dedicated trails, so make sure to look out for cars around you.
Stay With Us on Sunny Anna Maria Island, A Biker's Paradise
Anna Maria Island offers the perfect sun-soaked getaway for the entire family, and our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals are ready to welcome you. Book your stay now and get ready to explore Anna Maria Island on our five favorite bike paths.
