When you’re planning a trip to Anna Maria Island, one of the best things to learn about is the local beaches. You can visit Manatee Public Beach or Coquina Beach for a fun-filled family experience, or you can head to Bayfront Park for some time on the sand near some of the island’s most popular attractions. But if you’re looking for a place where you can escape the crowds and spend some time alone or plan a romantic beach evening with your sweetheart, Bean Point Beach is the ultimate solution!
Bean Point Beach is located in the northern section of the island in the City of Anna Maria. This area is actually steeped in history, as it is the former location of the home of George Emerson Bean, the very first permanent resident of the island. As interesting as this stretch of shoreline is, it’s quite off the beaten path, so not many crowds make their way there. Before you head to Bean Point Beach for yourself, here’s everything you’ll need to know!
How to Get There
The first thing to learn about Bean Point Beach is how to get there. Luckily, it’s a pretty easy journey. Wherever you’re starting from on the island, you’ll want to make your way to Gulf Drive, which extends through the entirety of AMI. Head north until you can turn right onto Pine Avenue, then turn left at the first cross street onto North Shore Drive. You’ll then simply follow this road about 0.7 miles until you reach the very northernmost point of the island.
Once you’re there, you’ll need to look out for an entrance. There are a few options for getting onto the beach; just look for the white signs noting where the beach access points are located. The “main” entrance is at a small crossroads where North Bay Boulevard and North Shore Drive meet. Entrances can also be found at the intersection of Fern Street and North Shore Drive, as well as the intersection of Gladiolus Street and North Shore Drive.
Wildlife You Will See
Once you arrive on Bean Point Beach, one of the first things you’ll notice is the abundance of wildlife. Since there aren’t quite as many tourists here as there are on the island’s other beaches, this stretch of shoreline has remained relatively undisturbed, and as such, it’s a great spot for watching wildlife! The local animals aren’t scared to come here and set up shop since they aren’t worried about being disturbed by humans.
Bean Point Beach is an incredible location for birdwatching, both for native species and migrating varieties. A few of the species you might spot include herons, pelicans, cranes, crows, eagles, seagulls, spoonbills, and more! In addition to birds, you might even be able to spot some majestic marine life if you keep your eyes peeled. Though they might be hard to see, it’s not totally uncommon to find a few manatees or a pod of dolphins!
Where to Stay
Bean Point Beach is ideal for coming to watch the local wildlife, experience a romantic picnic on the beach, or simply watch the waves roll in away from the tourist crowd. If you want ample time to explore Bean Point Beach and all the other attractions of Anna Maria Island, book one of our convenient rentals for as long as you need to! No matter who you’re traveling with, how long you’re in town, or how much you’re looking to spend, we are proud to have a vacation rental that will perfectly suit your needs. Contact us today to learn more and to book your dream getaway!
