Bean Point is located at the very northern tip of Anna Maria Island and is considered one of the island’s most beautiful hidden gems. This serene stretch of beach offers breathtaking views, calm waters, and some of the most stunning sunsets on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Tucked away from the more crowded tourist areas, Bean Point is the perfect place to escape, unwind, and reconnect with nature.
A Bit of History
Bean Point is named after George Emerson Bean, the first permanent resident of Anna Maria Island. This quiet spot sits on what was once part of Bean’s original homesteaded property. Today, it remains a peaceful, mostly untouched area with no parking lots or large signs—just a few subtle access points known mostly to locals and seasoned visitors.
How to Get to Bean Point
To find Bean Point, head north from the Anna Maria City Pier along North Bay Boulevard. The most well-known entrance is at the intersection of North Bay Blvd and North Shore Drive. Look for a small tree-lined path between two properties and a classic wooden footbridge that sets the tone for your tranquil Anna Maria Island beach experience.
Other Access Points:
Fern Street & North Shore Drive
Gladiolus Street & North Shore Drive
Each of these entrances is marked with small white signs reading “Public Beach Access.” They’re easy to miss, which helps keep the beach less crowded and more peaceful.
Local Tip: If you ride a bicycle, you can go straight up the path and park next to the footbridge. If you’re driving, be cautious. Parking regulations on Anna Maria Island are strictly enforced. Make sure all tires are completely off the asphalt. Even a single inch on the road could earn you a ticket.
There is limited roadside parking on nearby streets like Gladiolus, Fern, and Jacaranda. From there, take a short walk through the sandy paths to reach the beach.
What to Expect at Bean Point
Once you reach Bean Point, you’ll be rewarded with wide, powder-soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and sweeping views of where the Gulf of Mexico meets Tampa Bay. Take a right at the water and stroll north toward the actual point and you’ll catch sight of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in the distance.
When the tide is low, a sandbar emerges just off the shoreline. Wade into the warm, shallow water for shelling or to just enjoy the beauty of the Gulf. Keep an eye out for wildlife too! You might see birds sparring for space, crab holes dotting the sand, and, in season, marked-off sea turtle nests ready to hatch.
Birdwatchers will love this area! It's common to see herons, egrets, pelicans, and other coastal birds putting on a show. Off in the distance, you can also spot the shores of Egmont Key, and boats regularly pass by on the horizon.
Make the Most of Your Anna Maria Island Vacation
Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to read, a scenic place for a sunset stroll, or a quiet beach to let the kids explore, Bean Point offers something for everyone. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and nature takes center stage.
If you're planning a trip and want to stay nearby, check out our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals. Properties like “A Mermaid’s Tale”, located just a short stroll to Bean Point, offer convenient access to this stunning beach while giving you all the comforts of home.
Book Your Stay
Ready to experience Bean Point for yourself? Let us help you find the perfect Anna Maria Island vacation rental. Call us at (941)778-6066 x1, and one of our local Vacation Rental Specialists based right here on the island will be happy to help you plan your perfect beach getaway.
