Beer Can Island (Greer Island)
A rustic sandbar paradise with surreal driftwood sculptures and vibrant shell trees, best reached by boat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Maximizes beach space
Beer Can Island (Greer Island)
Best Time
Maximizes beach space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rustic sandbar paradise with surreal driftwood sculptures and vibrant shell trees, best reached by boat.
"WOW! This is such an excellent place to be. Don't miss out on this beautiful location."
Boat or Kayak Essential
Access is mainly by boat. Rent one or book a tour for the best experience! :boat:
Check Tide Charts
Tides greatly affect beach size. Plan around low tide for more space. :chartwithupwards_trend:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Driftwood Formations
Northern tip of Longboat Key
Unique, sculptural driftwood scattered across the powdery white sand creates a surreal, artistic landscape.
Shell Trees
Scattered across the island
Visitors often add shells to existing trees, creating vibrant, ever-evolving natural art installations.
Serene Atmosphere
The entire island
Experience a tranquil escape with clear, green waters and a secluded feel, perfect for relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Beer Can Island
Tides and Beach Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat or Kayak Essential
Access is mainly by boat. Rent one or book a tour for the best experience! :boat:
Check Tide Charts
Tides greatly affect beach size. Plan around low tide for more space. :chartwithupwards_trend:
Shell Hunting Paradise
Bring a bag for collecting beautiful shells and admire the unique shell trees. :shell:
Pack Accordingly
No lifeguards or services. Bring towels, water, and snacks. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat or Kayak Essential
Access is mainly by boat. Rent one or book a tour for the best experience! :boat:
Check Tide Charts
Tides greatly affect beach size. Plan around low tide for more space. :chartwithupwards_trend:
Shell Hunting Paradise
Bring a bag for collecting beautiful shells and admire the unique shell trees. :shell:
Pack Accordingly
No lifeguards or services. Bring towels, water, and snacks. :water_wave:
Explore the Driftwood
Marvel at the natural sculptures and unique trees scattered across the sand. :tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Beer Can Island's unique beauty, particularly its striking driftwood and shell-adorned trees, calling it a secluded, serene gem. While some note past beach nourishment projects have altered its appearance, the island remains a beloved spot for its natural charm and photographic potential. Access requires planning, as it's primarily boat-only and tide-dependent.
"Stumbled across this beautiful area last year and have returned again this season. Subject to tide tables your experience will be based on those."
JL Warren
"WOW! This is such an excellent place to be. Don't miss out on this beautiful location. There is not a lot of parking, but it's worth the work just to be here!"
Samantha Bastone
"Gorgeous beach! This is truly a one of a kind hidden gem that feels secluded from other beaches but with gorgeous and clean water. The water is pure green. Watch out where you step as there are branches everywhere. Don’t forget your towels as there is no lifeguard or service on the beach."
Klim Kavall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beer Can Island, also known as Greer Island, is primarily accessible by boat or kayak. You can rent a boat or join a tour from nearby marinas. Some visitors mention walking from Coquina Beach on Longboat Key, but this is highly dependent on tide levels and can be challenging. +1
No, Beer Can Island is not accessible by car. It's a sandbar and requires water transportation.
While some sources suggest walking from Coquina Beach, this is only feasible during low tide and can be difficult. It's best to plan for boat access.
Several charter companies and rental services operate in the Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island areas. Happy Paddler Kayak Tours & EcoVentures is mentioned for tours.
Beer Can Island is located at the northernmost point of Longboat Key, Florida, bordering Longboat Pass and situated at the south side of the Longboat Pass Bridge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or admission fees required to visit Beer Can Island. It's a natural sandbar accessible to the public.
As a natural sandbar, Beer Can Island does not have set opening or closing hours. It is accessible whenever you can reach it by water.
There is no dedicated parking at Beer Can Island itself, as it's not accessible by car. Parking would be at your boat rental location or the launch point.
Beer Can Island is a natural island with no facilities. Visitors should bring everything they need, including water, snacks, and towels. There are no lifeguards or services.
Yes, bringing your own boat is a popular way to access Beer Can Island and explore the surrounding waters.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Visitors enjoy exploring the unique driftwood formations, adding to the shell trees, shell hunting, picnicking, and simply relaxing on the serene beach. Some also enjoy snorkeling. 
It's recommended to bring towels, sunscreen, water, snacks, and a bag for collecting shells. Consider water shoes as there can be debris.
The waters around Beer Can Island are often described as clear and green, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
You might spot abundant sea life, including sand dollars, and various shorebirds. Dolphins are also common in the surrounding waters.
Yes, families can enjoy the unique natural beauty, shell hunting, and shallow waters. However, supervision is crucial due to the lack of lifeguards and the boat-access nature.
📸 📸 Photography
The island offers fantastic photo ops with its dramatic driftwood sculptures, vibrant shell trees, clear turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets.
Yes, drone footage captures the unique landscape, including the driftwood, sandbars, and surrounding waterways, offering a spectacular perspective.
Golden hour, especially during sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Midday offers clear, bright conditions for capturing the water's color.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned for general photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
The trees, often fallen driftwood, are a striking feature, especially when partially submerged in the water or adorned with shells, creating a surreal and photogenic scene. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be well-prepared. Since the island is boat-access only, ensure you have safe transportation. There are no lifeguards or facilities, so bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Supervise children closely, especially near the water and around the driftwood. The shallow, clear waters can be enjoyable for younger children, but always prioritize safety.
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
+1The island's secluded feel and clear, green waters provide a tranquil backdrop for capturing the essence of Florida's coastal beauty. Drone photography offers a spectacular perspective of the island's layout, sandbars, and surrounding waterways. Remember to be respectful of the environment and any other visitors while seeking the perfect shot.
🛶 Kayakers and Boaters
Boaters and kayakers can easily navigate to the island, anchoring nearby or beaching their craft (tide permitting). It's an ideal spot for a day trip adventure, allowing you to experience a less-developed, natural side of the Longboat Key area. Remember to check marine forecasts and tide charts for a safe and enjoyable outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Landscape of Beer Can Island
+1Adding to its unique charm are the shell trees. Travelers frequently adorn fallen branches with colorful shells, creating evolving, natural art installations that are a delight to discover. This practice, combined with the natural driftwood, makes Beer Can Island a photographer's dream and a truly memorable destination. The island's appearance can change with tides and storms, adding to its ever-evolving character.
+1It's important to note that the island's appearance has been affected by beach nourishment projects in the past, which have altered some of its original look, particularly removing some driftwood. However, it remains a special place for many who appreciate its rustic, natural appeal.
Navigating Access and Tides
+1Tide tables play a crucial role in the Beer Can Island experience. During high tide, the available beach space can be significantly reduced, and walking from nearby beaches like Coquina Beach becomes more difficult or impossible. Conversely, low tide reveals more of the sandy shores, making it ideal for exploring, shell hunting, and enjoying the full expanse of the island. Checking local tide charts before your visit is highly recommended to ensure you can make the most of your time there.
While some reviews mention walking from Coquina Beach, it's important to understand this is a tide-dependent route. Planning your visit around the lowest tides will offer the best chance for a comfortable and comprehensive exploration of the island's unique features.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit