Relaxation in Bradenton Beach vacation home rentals
Anna Maria Island is the perfect place to unwind, and Bradenton Beach vacation rentals are designed to help you do just that from the moment you cross the threshold. This idyllic stretch of barrier island on Florida’s sun-kissed Gulf Coast is cherished for its artisan stores, art galleries, and picturesque fishing piers. The sugar-sand beaches lapped by turquoise waves are made for invigorating watersports and romantic sunsets, while the start of the famous Tamiami Trail Scenic Highway offers the promise of further adventures on the horizon.
Tourist attractions near Bradenton Beach vacation rentals
Once you've checked out the old bridge, take the new bridge across Sarasota Bay to discover the history that lies on the opposite side. The picturesque village of Cortez is one of the last working fishing ports on the Gulf Coast, making it a natural location for the Florida Maritime Museum. An eclectic collection of maritime collectibles is displayed in a schoolhouse dating from 1912, including a stunning shell collection amassed by a Cortez sea captain with a passion for marine life, and scale models of ships that have played a part in Florida’s rich maritime history.
Things to do near Bradenton Beach vacation homes
The heart of Bradenton Beach’s Historic Old Town District is Bridge Street. This was the location of the original wooden bridge that connected the resort to the mainland. A walking tour of this atmospheric neighborhood presents a snapshot of Bradenton’s heritage. Today the street is lined with quaint stores and quirky restaurants that ooze character. Craft stalls, produce markets, and live music add to the atmosphere each Sunday from November through April. The island end of the old bridge was repurposed as a fishing pier and now boasts a restaurant and day dock, where boats can be moored while their owners enjoy a spot of retail therapy.
Climate for your stay in Bradenton Beach vacation homes
Florida’s Gulf Coast is renowned for its fabulous climate, and demand for Bradenton Beach vacation rentals seldom lets up no matter the season. Winter sun-seekers need to book early to get the best choice of beachfront locations, while Bradenton Beach vacation rentals with a pool are especially popular in the sizzling heat of July and August. Refreshing breezes across the barrier island help to mitigate the humidity of the tropical storms of late summer, while the softer showers of early spring are a welcome source of irrigation for parks and gardens.
The wild side of Bradenton Beach
Anna Maria Island is famous for its diverse wildlife. Sea turtles nest in its powdery sands, and many bird species can be spotted in its pine groves and on the shoreline. Bird-watchers are regularly rewarded with sightings of pelicans, cranes, feral parrots, and sandpipers, while commercial and sports fishing benefits from the abundance of redfish, snapper, and mackerel. Within easy reach of Bradenton Beach vacation rentals, Leffis Key Nature Walk winds through an area of protected and restored wetland habitat, offering panoramic views across Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
Best beaches near Bradenton Beach vacation rentals
The beaches of Bradenton Beach are one of its biggest draws. Vacation homes are available near places like Coquina Beach, a tranquil beach with calm waters for swimming, and Anna Maria Island, a scenic barrier island with soft-sand beaches and turquoise waters. You could also spend time at Manatee Public Beach, a park with a sandy beach, a playground, and amenities.
Transportation to and around Bradenton Beach
The nearest airport is in Sarasota-Bradenton Intl. Airport (SRQ), located 10.5 mi (17 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you can also fly into St. Petersburg-Clearwater Intl. Airport (PIE), which is 30.3 mi (48.7 km) away.
Romantic vacation homes near Bradenton Beach
Couples looking for a romantic experience will love Bradenton Beach. Vacation rentals put you within reach of places like Leffis Key, an island preserve with trails, boardwalks, and native wildlife, and Beer Can Island, a low-key sand bar with a powdery beach for picnics and parties. You'll also enjoy Robinson Preserve, a nature preserve with hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and observation platforms.