The historic Anna Maria City Pier in the city of Anna Maria has been a beloved landmark on Pine Avenue for over a century! Originally built in 1911 to accommodate large steamboats, over time, the pier evolved into a favorite hangout.
With its gorgeous views, plenty of off-pier fishing opportunities, and even a small grill and bait shop, it’s no wonder it’s a popular place for locals and visitors to spend an afternoon. That was before Anna Maria Island and the rest of Florida were hit by not one but two back-to-back hurricanes in the fall of 2024.
Hurricane Milton gave the final sweep of destruction and tore through Sarasota and Manatee Counties. It dealt a devastating blow to many popular spots on AMI, including the iconic Anna Maria City Pier, leaving half of it destroyed with its head house seemingly floating in the bay.
Rebuilding the Anna Maria City Pier
Photo Credit: .islander.org
Our treasured island endured back-to-back storms in 2024, with Hurricane Helene in September, followed by Hurricane Milton in October. Milton swept away almost half of the pier’s 700-foot walkway despite having just been rebuilt in 2020 following the damage induced by Hurricane Irma.
Today, the remains of the head house stand detached at the end of the pier, appearing as though it’s floating over Tampa Bay.
The Future of the Anna Maria City Pier
Photo Credit: Mark Winfrey
City officials have promised to rebuild, but a concrete timeline for reconstruction hasn’t yet been announced. Bureaucracy is bureaucracy, even in the aftermath of hurricanes in a tourist destination. The permitting and planning process can take time, but, as it did after previous storms, the pier will return.
While the pier itself remains closed, the surrounding Bayfront Park and nearby areas remain open for visitors to enjoy the views, take photos, and support the local businesses and individuals who are still recovering from the storms.
City Pier Grill & Bait Shop: Temporarily Closed
Photo Credit: mikeledray
The City Pier Grill & Bait Shop, which had been a popular place for grabbing a quick meal or picking up bait and tackle supplies, is temporarily closed due to the damage and lack of access. No official reopening date has been set, but updates will likely be shared by city officials in the coming months as restoration progresses.
What the Anna Maria City Pier Meant to Visitors
Photo Credit: Ken Schulze
Before Hurricane Milton, the Anna Maria City Pier had just been rebuilt in 2020 with sturdier materials and reinforcements. This didn’t stop the destruction brought forth by Helene and Milton. However, between storms following each restoration effort, Anna Maria City Pier was a popular place where:
- Families fished together – No fishing license was needed, and the calm bay waters were perfect for reeling something in or casting a few lines, even if nothing was biting.
- Visitors enjoyed casual waterfront dining – The City Pier Grill offered fresh seafood, cold drinks, and simple, satisfying meals with a view.
- Photographers captured breathtaking sunrise and sunset views – The pier provided one of the best vantage points on the island for watching the sky light up over Tampa Bay.
- Locals and tourists came together to relax – Whether it was enjoying a leisurely walk or trying to catch a glimpse of dolphins playing in the water or other marine life visible from the walkway, the pier was an integral part of Anna Maria Island’s charm.
Though it will take time to rebuild, the pier’s legacy and importance to the island stay strong.
What to Do While the City Pier is Being Rebuilt
Photo Credit: UA-Visions
Even though the Anna Maria City Pier is closed, there are plenty of other ways to experience the island’s Old Florida charm.
1 . Lounge in Bayfront Park
While the new piers are under construction, Bayfront Park provides another option for those wanting to cast a line and enjoy the peaceful waters of Tampa Bay. It’s a smaller but scenic spot for casual fishing and sightseeing.
2. Visit Bean Point Beach
For those looking for scenic views, Bean Point Beach, located at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, is one of the most peaceful and beautiful spots to take in the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay views. It’s also a popular spot to cast a line or relax with a book.
3. Explore the Bridge Street Pier
For a different sort of pier experience, visitors can head south to Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach. While smaller than the City Pier, it still provides great fishing, dining, and waterfront views. Plus, there’s the famous Bridge Street Market, which is open from November through April.
4. Check Out Local Waterfront Dining Options
With the City Pier Grill closed, visitors can check out other great spots for yummy eats with an equally impressive view:
- The Bridge Tender Inn and Tiki Bar – A classic Bridge Street restaurant with fresh seafood, live music, gorgeous views, and fun vibes. You can also bring your dog to Bridge Tender Inn, so be sure to pack Fido’s leash!
- Beach House Waterfront Restaurant – A casual yet refined beachside eatery, Beach House Waterfront Restaurant offers a locally sourced and sustainable menu with that toes-in-the-sand vibe. Come for lunch, drink specials during Happy Hour, or dinner nightly.
Since fishing off the City Pier is no longer an option (for now), consider booking a local fishing charter. Many companies offer half-day and full-day trips with expert local guides who are familiar with some of the best fishing spots around Anna Maria Island.
Staying Updated on the City Pier’s Rebuild
Want to stay updated on the progress of the historic Anna Maria City Pier’s reconstruction? Here are some ways to stay informed:
- Follow the City of Anna Maria on Facebook.
- Follow the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce for local business and recovery news.
Where to Stay on Anna Maria Island
The Anna Maria City Pier has been an iconic part of the island for over 100 years, and while Hurricane Milton dealt a serious blow, it won’t be gone forever. The island has a long history of overcoming challenges and rebuilding stronger, and the historic pier’s future will be no different.
Although pier reconstruction efforts are ongoing, there are still so many things to do on Anna Maria Island. From beaches and fishing to waterfront restaurants and magical sunsets, don’t let the pier’s temporary closure stop you from experiencing the charm of AMI.
Take advantage of fewer visitors during this time - you simply can’t beat going to the Donut Experiment on a Saturday morning to find there’s no line! As the Chamber of Commerce president, Terri Kinder put it best:
“Anna Maria Island is open. So please come.”
Get in touch with us today at Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals for vacation rentals in Bradenton Beach. We are ready to welcome you to our slice of paradise!
