This region is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and for many visitors, soaking up the sun and enjoying the shoreline becomes the highlight of their stay. With so many experiences to choose from, the beach consistently remains the top attraction. From wide stretches of soft sand to quiet coastal hideaways, there are endless beaches waiting to be explored.
If you’re looking for a relaxed shoreline with natural dunes and fewer high-rise buildings, Lido Beach is a favorite. With more than 3,000 feet of soft white sand, year-round lifeguards, and excellent visibility, it’s perfect for families. Enjoy free parking, easy access to the sand, picnic areas, restrooms, showers, umbrella and chair rentals, and the area’s only public beachfront swimming pool (daily fee). St. Armands Circle is less than a mile away—ideal for grabbing lunch, shopping, or treating yourself to post-beach ice cream.
Longboat Key offers 10 miles of serene, uncrowded shoreline that feels wonderfully private. While public access points are limited, staying on Longboat Key allows you to enjoy uninterrupted stretches of pristine sand and turquoise water. The south end of the island, near New Pass, offers sweeping views and postcard-worthy beauty.
Additional Longboat Key highlights include:
Famed for its 99% pure quartz sand that stays cool underfoot, Siesta Beach is one of the most celebrated beaches in the United States. Lifeguards are on duty year-round, and the renovated beach pavilion offers shaded picnic areas, grills, concessions, restrooms, showers, and a large playground. Its expansive shoreline makes it ideal for families, beachgoers, and sunset chasers alike. Parking has been greatly improved, but it still fills early on peak days—arrive soon after sunrise for the best experience.
Just south of Siesta Beach, Turtle Beach offers a quieter, more laid-back vibe. The sand here is coarser and darker, but the beach is excellent for shelling, fishing, kayaking, and enjoying a peaceful shoreline. Picnic areas, a playground, and a boat launch make it a versatile spot for families and adventurers.
Known for its calm, clear waters and relaxed pace, Crescent Beach is a favorite for those seeking a less crowded alternative to Siesta Beach. The famous Point of Rocks—a shallow, rocky limestone formation—offers some of the best snorkeling on the Gulf Coast.
Just north of Longboat Key, Anna Maria Island offers a collection of charming, family-friendly beaches with local character.
Popular AMI beach areas include:
