Vacation rentals in Manatee County

The closest airport is Sarasota-Bradenton International airport, which is about a 30-minute drive from Anna Maria Island. There are several car rental companies at the airport if you plan having a private car throughout your stay. Uber, Lyft, and taxis are also a viable way of getting around.

Depending on where you’ll be staying in Manatee County, a car may or may not be necessary. Anna Maria Island is the most walkable place in Manatee County, and if you intend to base yourself here throughout your stay then a car is not necessary since it’s easy to get around the island by foot or bicycle. It is recommended to rent a car if you’ll be staying elsewhere in Manatee County, as these areas are more spread out, and you’ll need a car to get from place to place.

Manatee County is home to endless romantic vacation destinations for couples. There are several stunning white-sand beaches throughout the county, but be sure not to miss out on Bean Point Beach in Anna Maria. The beach is known for its powdery white sand and stellar sunsets. Enjoy a romantic date-night at Beach House Restaurant, a popular restaurant serving freshly caught seafood in an ambient setting. The sunset views are spectacular from here.

Manatee County offers a plethora of fun activities for families of all ages. Head to The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton where you can learn about the history of Florida’s gulf coast. There are a variety of regularly changing exhibits and galleries throughout the museum. There is an onsite planetarium and a Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat, which regularly rehabilitates manatees before setting them free again into the ocean. Families with children should head to the Florida Railroad Museum in Parrish. The museum offers train rides for kids, as well as educational information about the history of trains.

Located right on the coast of Manatee County is Anna Maria Island. This stunning barrier island is home to seven miles of pristine, white-sand beaches. It is known for having some of the best beaches in the entire state of Florida. Swim in the tranquil turquoise waters, do a fishing charter, rent kayaks, or go parasailing.

Set in northwest Bradenton, this green nature preserve is home to walking trails, bike paths, picnic areas, observatories, and a boat launch. You can bike around the peaceful grounds or kayak in the bay. A great place to spend the afternoon or to go for a sunset picnic.

Coquina Beach is consistently rated one of the most beautiful beaches in the USA. This is mostly accredited to its perfect powdery-white sand, long stretch of shoreline, and calm turquoise waters. It’s the perfect place to sunbathe, go for a long beach walk, swim, or watch the sunset.

History buffs won’t want to miss out on a visit to DeSoto National Memorial Park. The 26 acre park is set on the coastline in Bradenton where the Tampa Bay and Manatee River merge. The majority of the area is mangrove swamps. You can walk through the many trails, enjoy views of the gulf, and go to the visitors center to learn about the history of the place.

This 7-acre beach has it all: white sand, gentle waves, picnic areas, a gift shop, grills, a café, and a playground. It’s a great place to come with family, friends, or your significant other to relax under the sun and swim all day.