Cortez Beach

STEP BACK IN TIME to OLD FLORIDA CHARM

Heading north from Coquina Beach, Cortez is one of the nicest beaches on Anna Maria extending from 5th street to 13th street along the Gulf of Mexico. This is a family oriented beach with plenty of kids who know how to use a skim board, build sand castles and fly a kite. The water is typically calm with light surf. Sandy dunes, Australian Pines and Sea Grapes shade the parking area where cars are hidden from view.

Parking is free with no lifeguards or shower/bathroom facilities. If staying on the island, leave the car behind and hop aboard a Free Trolley running north on Marina Drive and South on Gulf Drive to more beach and shopping districts. For only 75 cents, take the Longboat Key Trolley @ Coquina Beach to downtown Sarasota with stops on Longboat Key and St. Armands Circle. Daily service runs from 6am to 11pm every 30 minutes.

The vacation rentals on Anna Maria Island vary from apartment efficiencies and motel rooms to cottages and rental condominiums. The atmosphere is relaxing and casual with plenty of good restaurants, performing arts and quaint little shops. What makes Anna Maria so attractive to visitors is its private island feel... so book early and go back in time on this little island paradise. Recommended Accommodations

See more of this secluded beach by visiting our Cortez Beach Photo Gallery

Vacation Planner Use this tool to pre-plan your visit to SW Florida!