Cortez Beach Anna Maria Island
Cortez Beach offers serene turquoise waters, free parking, and stunning sunsets, with limited amenities but easy access to Bridge Street's charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easy parking
Cortez Beach Anna Maria Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easy parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cortez Beach offers serene turquoise waters, free parking, and stunning sunsets, with limited amenities but easy access to Bridge Street's charm.
"Spectacular sunset and vibe. The water was so warm. It is a must visit."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Don't miss the stunning sunsets over the Gulf! Cortez Beach is a prime spot for this daily spectacle. :sunset:
🚗 Free Parking Available
Enjoy the convenience of free parking, though it can fill up quickly during peak times. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spectacular Gulf Sunsets
Cortez Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico, painting the sky with vibrant colors. A truly magical end to a beach day.
Calm, Turquoise Waters
Cortez Beach
Enjoy crystal-clear, calm Gulf waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. The water temperature is often ideal for a refreshing dip.
Abundant Seashells
Cortez Beach
Hunt for a variety of seashells along the shore. The sand is thick and often filled with treasures waiting to be discovered.
Proximity to Bridge Street
Cortez Beach
Conveniently located near the shops, restaurants, and nightlife of Historic Bridge Street for easy access to island amenities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Red Tide and Beach Conditions
Parking and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Don't miss the stunning sunsets over the Gulf! Cortez Beach is a prime spot for this daily spectacle.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Enjoy the convenience of free parking, though it can fill up quickly during peak times. :car:
🐚 Shell Hunting Fun
Bring a bag for collecting seashells; the beach is often rich with them. :shell:
💧 Limited Facilities
Be prepared for minimal amenities like restrooms and showers. Pack accordingly! :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Don't miss the stunning sunsets over the Gulf! Cortez Beach is a prime spot for this daily spectacle.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Enjoy the convenience of free parking, though it can fill up quickly during peak times. :car:
🐚 Shell Hunting Fun
Bring a bag for collecting seashells; the beach is often rich with them. :shell:
💧 Limited Facilities
Be prepared for minimal amenities like restrooms and showers. Pack accordingly! :toilet:
🌊 Check Red Tide Status
Always check for red tide advisories before visiting to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cortez Beach is praised for its beautiful, calm turquoise waters, abundant seashells, and spectacular sunsets. Visitors appreciate the free parking and its convenient location near Bridge Street's amenities. However, the lack of restrooms, showers, and changing facilities is a recurring downside, and some note the potential for seaweed and strong waves.
"Tony and I shared our "Last Day" at the Beach at Cortez Beach on Anna Maria Island. The waves were very high today and strong. Much stronger than rest of week!
The sand was wet like "Sand Castle making" feel to it!
The water was clear but there was a lot of seaweed rolling in! We had a nice 2.5 hrs
Going to miss this area but we Def have a new place to venture too!
Cortez has lifeguards no drinking no pets no smoking rules it also hasno bathrooms no showers or changing rooms!
But it does have free parking!
Lots of shells!"
Lisa Boyce
"What a spectacular sunset and vibe. The water was so warm. It is a must visit. The quaint litter town near by is full of wonderful night life and food and atmosphere. Just what we needed."
Thomas Roberts
"It is said that the east coast of Florida sees the sunrise and the west coast of the sunset. It’s really beautiful. Although there are some clouds today. The sand here is very thick, and the shells are broken a lot. The parking fee is ten dollars per hour. It‘s quite expensive."
Yongqing Chen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cortez Beach is located on the southern end of Anna Maria Island in Bradenton Beach, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with a dedicated parking lot. Many visitors also find it convenient to stay in nearby Cortez and make the short trip over.
Yes, Cortez Beach offers free parking, which is a significant advantage. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and weekends. Arriving early is recommended.
While specific public transport routes directly to Cortez Beach might be limited, the Anna Maria Island Trolley is a popular and free option that runs along the island, making stops at various beaches and points of interest, including areas near Cortez Beach.
Cortez Beach has a parking lot that is close to the beach access, making it relatively accessible. However, like many natural beaches, the sand can be soft and challenging for wheelchairs. Some sections may have piers for easier viewing.
Cortez Beach is located just north of the more popular Coquina Beach and south of Bridge Street. While both offer beautiful Gulf access, Cortez Beach is often noted for its easy parking and proximity to Bridge Street's amenities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Cortez Beach does not have an entrance fee. Parking is also free, which is a great perk for visitors looking to save money.
Beaches in Anna Maria Island are generally open from sunrise to sunset. There are no specific 'opening' or 'closing' times for the beach itself, but lifeguard services may have specific hours.
Yes, Cortez Beach has rules in place. Visitors should be aware that drinking alcohol, bringing pets, and smoking are prohibited on the beach.
No, tickets are not required for Cortez Beach as it is a public beach. Entry and parking are free.
Yes, Cortez Beach has active lifeguard towers, providing an added layer of safety for swimmers and beachgoers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Cortez Beach has limited amenities. While there are lifeguard towers, there are no restrooms, showers, or changing rooms directly on the beach. It's advisable to come prepared.
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, shell collecting, and simply relaxing by the beautiful Gulf waters. It's also a fantastic spot for watching the sunset.
Yes, Cortez Beach can be family-friendly due to its calm waters and free parking. However, the lack of restrooms and showers might be a consideration for families with very young children.
While fishing might be possible from the shore, there are piers nearby that are often used for fishing and enjoying the views.
The sand at Cortez Beach is described as thick and can be wet, making it good for sandcastle building. It's also known for having many broken shells.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly on Cortez Beach itself. However, it's conveniently located near Historic Bridge Street, which offers a variety of dining options. Gulf Drive Cafe is also nearby and offers beachside dining.
You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to Cortez Beach. However, alcohol is prohibited.
Historic Bridge Street, just a short distance away, has numerous restaurants and bars. For a unique experience, consider Gulf Drive Cafe for beachside dining and live music.
Yes, North Shore Cafe is a recommended spot near Cortez Beach for coffee, smoothies, and sandwiches. The Fox Mercantile in Cortez also offers delicious coffee and a charming atmosphere.
While there are no designated picnic areas with tables, you can certainly bring a blanket or set up your own picnic on the sand. Remember to pack out all your trash.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Sunsets are particularly spectacular here.
Popular subjects include the stunning Gulf sunsets, the turquoise waters, abundant seashells, and the general island vibe. Capturing the piers and beachgoers enjoying the day is also common.
The piers offer elevated views, and the shoreline provides a great vantage point for capturing the expanse of the beach and the ocean. The area near Bridge Street also offers picturesque scenes.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the Anna Maria Island city guidelines regarding drone operation in public beach areas to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and sky, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant details. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The shallow entry and generally gentle waves make it suitable for children to play in. However, families should be aware of the limited facilities, specifically the lack of restrooms and showers, which might require extra planning. Consider bringing plenty of snacks and drinks, and perhaps a portable changing tent for convenience. Nearby Bridge Street offers more amenities and dining options for a family outing. 💰 Budget Travelers
couples
The highlight for many couples is the breathtaking sunset, providing a perfect backdrop for a romantic evening. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the sand as the sun goes down. The proximity to Bridge Street also allows for a charming evening stroll and dinner at one of the island's many restaurants. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Red Tide and Beach Safety
Beyond red tide, Cortez Beach has specific rules to maintain its pristine condition. No drinking, no pets, and no smoking are strictly enforced.
However, it's important to note the limited facilities; there are no restrooms, showers, or changing rooms directly on the beach, so plan accordingly. Maximizing Your Visit: Parking, Amenities, and Nearby Attractions
While the free parking is a plus, the amenities are minimal.
Cortez Beach's location is also a key part of its appeal. It's situated just north of Coquina Beach and south of the vibrant Historic Bridge Street.
Bridge Street is a hub of activity, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. This proximity allows visitors to easily transition from a relaxing beach day to exploring the island's charming town. For a unique dining experience, consider Gulf Drive Cafe, known for its beachside dining and live music. The Magic of Anna Maria Island Sunsets
As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Many visitors describe the sunsets here as breathtaking and a highlight of their trip. The west-facing orientation of Cortez Beach makes it an ideal spot to witness this daily spectacle. The warm, calm waters often reflect the colorful sky, adding to the visual splendor.
Whether you're a seasoned photographer or simply looking for a moment of natural beauty, the sunsets at Cortez Beach are an unforgettable experience. It's a perfect way to end a day of sun, sand, and sea. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit