Nestled at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, Bean Point Beach is a treasure trove of photographic opportunities that capture the essence of paradise. With its pristine sandy shores and breathtaking sunsets, every corner of this idyllic locale is worthy of being immortalized as your next framed vacation picture.
Locals refer to Anna Maria Island as AMI, and it’s a barrier island located on the Gulf of Mexico, about an hour's drive from Tampa Bay, Florida. It takes its nickname, “The Island In The Sun,” to heart, and there’s no better place to spend your summer vacation than staying at one of our Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals with endless ocean views – and, of course, close proximity to one of the island’s most treasured beaches.
This is everything you need to know about Beach Point Beach!
About Bean Point Beach
Photo Credit: UA-Visions
Bean Point Beach was named after the first homesteader, George Emerson Bean, who built his home on the northern side of AMI in 1892. Although his home is no longer there, the beach keeps his name. Due to its history and location, the beach was on private property until it opened to the public. It truly is a secluded gem on AMI.
Where is Bean Point Beach?
You’ll find Bean Point Beach at the very north end tip of the island. The best way to find it is to head north on North Bay Boulevard from the Anna Maria City Pier. Along the way, you’ll encounter some of the most scenic routes to Bean Point Beach.
There are three different public beach access locations for Bean Point Beach. You’ll find the main entrance at the North Bay Boulevard and North Shore Drive crossroads. However, take notice that the entrance will be between properties with tree-lined paths, so check for the “Public Beach Access” signs to locate the path.
You can look for these beach access points at the crossroads of Gladiolus Street and North Shore Drive, as well as the crossroads of Fern Street and North Shore Drive. All of them are walking paths that will take you to the beach in this residency area.
Getting to Bean Point Beach
You can get to Bean Point Beach by driving, walking, or taking the free trolley available on Anna Maria Island.
Parking
While driving to Bean Point Beach isn’t an issue, parking is limited or almost non-existent depending on the time of day when you arrive.
It would be best to get there early to find a good parking spot. Be mindful to follow street parking signs as these are enforced. Some of the best streets where you can find parking are Gladiolus Street, Fern Street, and Jacaranda Road.
Free Trolley
If you take the free trolley to get around Anna Maria Island, you won’t have to worry about searching for parking spaces. The free trolley works as a hop-on hop-off, making it easy to explore the whole island.
It runs from 6:00 am until 9:00 pm at 20-minute intervals. The best way to get to Bean Point Beach using the trolley is to hop off at the Anna Maria City Pier stop. From there, you can walk north towards the Beach. It’s a bit of a stroll and can take up to 20 minutes, but it’ll be worth it. You’ll walk by Bayfront Park and, in the distance, take in the Sunshine Skyway Bridge views.
What To Do at Bean Point Beach
Due to its secluded location, you’ll find that Bean Point Beach getaway offers you a much quieter and serene atmosphere - a truly hidden gem. The ocean water is a beautiful turquoise color with soft white sand, and it provides you with the opportunity to relax and enjoy a day at the beach. Here are some of the best things you can do and see at this beach.
Kick Back and Enjoy Some Nearby Beach Eats
Photo Credit: RFondren Photography
Remember that Bean Point Beach does not have facilities or concession stands. Make sure you bring plenty of snacks, water, sunscreen, and anything else you might need.
One of the ideal ways to enjoy a Bean Point visit? A beach picnic. Stop by Scott’s Deli on your way and pick up one of their famous breakfast sandwiches, like the Maple Leaf, which has fried eggs, bacon, provolone, and roasted red pepper jelly. Or if it’s late in the day, grab an Italian sandwich or a Roast Beef Melt to split on the picnic blanket!
Some nearby restaurants, such as Rod and Reel Pier on North Shore Drive, also offer takeaway.
Refresh Your Feet in the Coastline
Photo Credit: courtney ferguson
Bring your beach towel or beach chair, pick a spot in the sand, and have fun in the sun. Whether that’s working on your tan, building a sandcastle, or birdwatching, you’ll feel relaxed at the end of your day.
The clear water at Bean Point Beach is perfect to dip your toes in after having fun in the sun. You can even see and explore the sandbar during the low tide. However, even if the water looks calm, Bean Point Beach has no lifeguards on duty, so be cautious and swim at your own risk.
Go Kayak or Paddleboarding
Photo Credit: NicoElNino
The calm, shallow waters here are ideal for paddlers of all skill levels, making it a fantastic destination for both beginners and experienced adventurers. For rentals, several nearby shops offer kayaks and paddleboards, including Low Tide Tours, which also provides helpful guidance on local routes.
Cast Your Line
Photo Credit:Smiltena
The beach's shallow waters provide perfect fishing spots, allowing you to cast your line while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Common catches include species such as snook, redfish, and trout, which thrive in this coastal environment. For those without gear, local shops offer fishing rentals, bait, and tackle. Try Pine Avenue Bait and Tackle for a rod rental!
Stroll and Go Shelling
Photo Credit: jridgewayphotography via Flickr
Shelling is a fun activity that everyone can enjoy, especially families. You can walk around the coastline in search of seashells to collect. To find the best shells, visit during low tide and start your search for conch shells, welk, cockle, coquina, or sand dollars with their star-shaped center. Pro tip: keep your eyes peeled for shark’s teeth!
Enjoy the Golden Hour
Photo Credit: Nature Peaceful
Take a walk around the coastline during the sunrise or sunset hours. You’ll experience the deep orange and blue colors, which are perfect for taking photos and a great way to start or end your day. It would also make it a time to spend a romantic evening with your partner.
Things to Do Nearby Bean Point
Since Bean Point Beach is north of Anna Maria Island, there are a few things to do nearby to make the most of the area during your visit.
Fish from the Rod and Reel Pier
Photo Credit: Stephaniellen
Rod and Reel Pier is a seafood restaurant with an extensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. You can either order a takeaway for your beach picnic or walk towards the pier when hunger strikes. If you like to fish, you can do so from the pier.
You might be able to catch sheepshead or mackerel! We advise that you check with the Florida Wildlife Commission for information about fishing licenses and regulations.
Stroll and Eat at the Anna Maria Island City Pier
Photo Credit:Stephen B. Goodwin
The Anna Maria City Pier is a place to visit and a stop from the free trolley. It’s located at the end of Pine Avenue, and it’s a historic site with amazing ocean and wildlife views. It also houses a restaurant and gift shop, and it’s another great location for pier fishing.
Shop Pine Avenue
Photo Credit: WHYFRAME
Pine Avenue is a must stop if you are around Bean Point and Downtown Anna Maria Island. The avenue hosts restaurants, eateries, gift shops, and more, as well as the Anna Maria Historic Society. The latter is a great way to learn about the local history and tells the story of settlers and their legacy on the island.
Stay Near Bean Point Beach on Anna Maria Island
When you arrive and see Bean Point Beach for yourself, you’ll soon realize why this secluded paradise is one of the best beaches on Anna Maria Island. You can work on your tan, watch the wildlife, build sandcastles, collect shells, and dip your toes around the coastline.
Explore Bean Point Beach and everything this island has to offer, and book a vacation rental with Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals. Our condos are equipped with an elegant coat decor and all the amenities you might need during your stay.
