Your perfect beach vacation includes exploring the best of Anna Maria Island. Here are the top attractions within minutes of Snyder's Rest at 115 6th St N in Holmes Beach.

Bridge Street - 5 Minute Walk

Just a short stroll from your door, Bridge Street is the heart of Holmes Beach. This charming shopping and dining district offers eclectic boutiques, art galleries, ice cream shops, and waterfront restaurants. Browse local crafts, grab fresh seafood, or enjoy live music at one of the island's favorite gathering spots. The free island trolley stops here, making it easy to explore the rest of Anna Maria Island without your car.

Rod and Reel Pier - 1.5 Miles North

One of Anna Maria Island's most iconic landmarks, the historic Rod and Reel Pier has been welcoming visitors since 1947. This 200-foot pier extends into Tampa Bay and offers spectacular sunset views, excellent fishing opportunities, and a beloved restaurant serving fresh grouper sandwiches and cold drinks. It's a 10-minute bike ride or quick trolley trip from Snyder's Rest. Don't miss breakfast or lunch on the pier while watching dolphins swim by.

Bean Point - 2 Miles North

Located at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, Bean Point is a pristine natural preserve featuring unspoiled beaches and some of the most spectacular sunsets in Florida. This quiet, undeveloped area is perfect for shelling, bird watching, and peaceful beach walks. The unique geography creates calm waters ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Arrive in the late afternoon to watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico in this serene, crowd-free environment.

Coquina Beach - 3 Miles South

Coquina Beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This beautiful Manatee County beach park features white sand beaches, gentle Gulf waters, picnic pavilions, and excellent amenities including restrooms and outdoor showers. The beach is known for its shallow, calm waters perfect for families with young children. Parking is plentiful and free. Look for the historic Coquina Beach building, a 1940s bathhouse that's now a beloved landmark. The beach also offers beach wheelchair rentals for accessibility.

Cortez Village - 4 Miles East

Step back in time at Cortez Village, Florida's last working waterfront fishing village. This historic maritime community has maintained its authentic Old Florida character for over 125 years. Visit the Florida Maritime Museum to learn about the area's fishing heritage, browse the village's art galleries and gift shops, or dine at Star Fish Company for fresh-off-the-boat seafood with waterside views. The Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival every February celebrates the village's rich history. It's a 15-minute drive from Snyder's Rest.

Anna Maria City Pier - 2.5 Miles North

The Anna Maria City Pier is a must-visit destination at the northern end of the island. This free public pier stretches 678 feet into Tampa Bay and is perfect for fishing, dolphin watching, or simply enjoying panoramic water views. The pier features a bait shop, restrooms, and the popular Pier Restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with unbeatable views. Sunrise and sunset from the pier are absolutely spectacular.

Bradenton Beach - 3 Miles South

The charming village of Bradenton Beach offers a more laid-back vibe with its own unique personality. Visit the Historic Bridge Street Pier (not to be confused with Bridge Street in Holmes Beach), explore quirky shops and restaurants, or relax at the beautiful public beach. The area is known for excellent shelling, especially after storms. Check out the Bradenton Beach Marina for boat rentals, fishing charters, and water sports.

Robinson Preserve - 5 Miles East

Nature lovers shouldn't miss Robinson Preserve, a 682-acre environmental gem featuring mangrove forests, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. The preserve offers over 3 miles of elevated walkways and trails perfect for hiking, bird watching, and kayaking. Rent a kayak and paddle through the peaceful mangrove tunnels, or climb the 40-foot observation tower for stunning views of Tampa Bay and the surrounding islands. It's completely free to visit and offers a peaceful escape into Florida's natural beauty.

Leffis Key 

Near Snyder's Rest is Leffis Key, a small bayside park with a boat ramp, fishing dock, and beautiful sunset views over the Intracoastal Waterway. It's perfect for an evening stroll, fishing, or watching manatees and dolphins that frequent these calm waters. Many guests enjoy their morning coffee here watching the sunrise over the bay.

Water Activities

From Snyder's Rest, you're perfectly positioned to enjoy all kinds of water activities. Rent paddleboards, kayaks, or jet skis nearby. Book a dolphin watching tour, fishing charter, or sunset cruise. The calm Gulf waters and protected bays make Anna Maria Island ideal for all skill levels. Several rental companies deliver equipment directly to the beach near your apartment.

Getting Around
The free Anna Maria Island Trolley runs daily and stops at Bridge Street, just a short walk from Snyder's Rest. The trolley connects all three island communities and stops at major beaches and attractions. Many guests rent bikes or golf carts to explore the island at a leisurely pace. Everything mentioned above is within a 10-minute drive, but you'll find the island lifestyle encourages you to slow down and enjoy the journey..