Parking Guide 🅿️
Free & paid lots, street parking tips, and peak-season strategy
🚃 Pro Tip: The free Island Trolley runs the length of AMI — park south at Coquina Beach and ride north to avoid the worst congestion. See Trolley Schedule →
Parking Safety Note
All lots close at 9 PM — overnight parking is prohibited and vehicles will be towed. Keep all tires off the pavement when using street parking; citations are strictly enforced ($75+). This guide only lists verified safe public areas. Some stretches of Gulf Drive have sharp curves and poor visibility — please only use designated parking areas.
City of Anna Maria — Street Parking Rules
- ◆ Park with the flow of traffic
- ◆ All tires off the roadway
- ◆ Parallel parking only
- ◆ Park only between posted signs — allowed zone indicated by arrow direction
Source: City of Anna Maria posted signage · Verified April 2026
Anna Maria
3
0 with beach access
Holmes Beach
1
1 with beach access
Bradenton Beach
4
2 with beach access
Bayfront Park Lot
Free (some paid sections)Closest lot to the City Pier and Pine Avenue shops. Mix of free and metered spaces — check signs carefully.
💡 Arrive before 9 AM in peak season. The free section fills first — the paid section near the pier usually has availability.
Anna Maria Street Parking
FreeFree street parking is available along Bay Blvd, Willow Ave, and Magnolia Ave. Keep all tires off the pavement — citations are strictly enforced.
💡 Watch for 'No Parking' signs carefully. Even one tire on the grass can result in a $75 fine. The trolley stops nearby — consider parking further south and riding up.
North Shore Dr Parking
FreeStreet parking near the north end of the island. Good access to the bay side.
💡 Good option for the north end of the island. Less competition than Gulf-side spots.
Manatee Public Beach Lot
FreeThe largest and most popular free lot on the island. Directly on the Gulf beach with restrooms, showers, and a café. Trolley stops right here.
💡 This lot fills by 10 AM on weekends in season (Dec–Apr). Arrive before 9 AM or take the trolley from a south lot. No overnight parking — strictly enforced.
Bradenton Beach Main Lot
FreeThe main public lot for Bradenton Beach. Also accessible from Bridge Street. Central location near shops, restaurants, and the Bridge Street Pier.
💡 Best lot for exploring Bridge Street. The Circle K on the corner is a useful landmark. Trolley stops right outside.
Highland Ave Lots
FreeAdditional parking lots in the 400 block of Highland Avenue near the Police Department and Public Works facility (under the Cell Tower).
💡 Less well-known than the main lot — often has spaces when the Bridge Street area is full. Short walk to the beach.
Coquina Beach Lot
FreeLarge free lot at the south end of the island. One of the best shelling beaches on AMI. Trolley turnaround point — service every 20 minutes.
💡 This is the trolley's southern turnaround — you can park here for free and ride the trolley the entire length of the island. Perfect strategy for peak season.
Coquina Park Lot
FreeAdditional parking near Coquina Beach / Cortez Beach. Trolley service available.
💡 A great overflow option when Coquina Beach main lot is full. Same beautiful beach, slightly less foot traffic.
No parking lots found for this area.