Are you planning a visit to Anna Maria Island or Bradenton Beach? One of the aspects of your trip you may not have considered yet is how to get here! There are many ways of traveling to the area, each with their own benefits. Below, we discuss the transportation methods you can use to travel to Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Beach.
Air Travel
If you are coming to Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Beach by plane, then you are in luck! The Tampa International Airport is just a 90-minute drive from the island. You can also fly into the smaller St. Pete/Clearwater Airport. However, if you want to limit driving time, we recommend flying into Sarasota Airport, which is just 30 minutes away.
You can drive from the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport to the stretch of the island in less than 30 minutes by taking FL-64 and W/Manatee Avenue. You can also use a reliable taxi service that costs less than $90 for a one-way trip for three passengers and three bags.
By Car
For those who are driving to Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Beach, we recommend taking Route 64 or state Route 684 across the drawbridge. For those coming from the northern sections or the south, take State Route 789 from Longboat Key. When you ask for directions from locals, keep in mind that State Route 789 and 684 are also known as Gulf Drive and Cortez Road. You can also use transportation apps, like Uber or Lyft, to book transportation in the moment or ahead of time.
By Boat
A private boat is not the most convenient or cost-effective, but you can dock at the beach or at numerous locations in Anna Maria City if you are coming from a nearby coastal area.
By Train
Trains are a fun way to travel if you want to sit back, relax, and see the countryside. Take the auto train from D.C. to Orlando and hop off at the end stop to then take a car or use an Uber/Lyft to get to your final destination. The train from DC to Orlando, FL, costs approximately $200-$300 for a one-way trip and takes 19-20 hours.
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.
