Anna Maria Island is a stretch of land just off the Gulf Coast and Sarasota on mainland Florida, taking just 30 minutes to drive from Sarasota Airport – talk about convenient! Let’s learn about getting around Anna Maria Island and the nearby Bradenton Beach, one of the hotspots in the Sunshine State.
By Plane
If you are coming to Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Beach by plane, it is super easy! The Tampa International Airport is just a 90-minute drive, or you can fly into St. Pete/Clearwater Airport. If you are taking a taxi to your accommodation, we recommend flying into Sarasota Airport, which is just 30 minutes away. You can drive from the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport to AMI and Bradenton in less than 30 minutes. You can also take a taxi for less than $100 for a full car with luggage!
By Car
For those who are driving, we recommend taking Route 64 or state Route 684. For those coming from either end of the island, take State Route 789 from Longboat Key. You can also use apps, like Uber or Lyft, to book transportation. This is a good way to go longer distances if you think that you might go to a bar or have a glass of wine!
By Boat
A private boat is great for those who have a catamaran, motorboat, or rowboat, and you can dock at the beach or various locations in Anna Maria.
By Train
Train is a fun way to travel if you want to relax. Take the Auto Train from the East Coast to Orlando. Hop off at the last stop to then take a car to get to your final destination. The train costs approximately $200-$300 for a one-way trip.
By Bus
Lastly, you can get to and around AMI and Bradenton Beach by the Anna Maria Island free trolley! This convenient and easy shuttle stops at multiple stops in Bradenton and Sarasota, meaning you can easily get to restaurants, beaches, and shops. This free trolley spans the entire 7 miles of the stretch of land and offers a convenient and easy way for you to get from Point A to Point B without having to spend money or rent a car. We love using the shuttle for getting around Anna Maria Island with large groups and don’t want to spend money on an expensive vehicle or place to park.
