About
One landmark you can't miss when visiting AMI, especially at sunset, is Bean Point Beach. Located on the northern tip, this sandy sanctuary offers a less-crowded, low-key, natural setting on your Florida getaway.
The area is named after George Emerson Bean, the first permanent settler of Anna Maria Island. He arrived in 1892 and built his homestead close to where the Rod and Reel Pier stands today.
When Bean passed away in 1898, his son, George Wilhelm Bean, took over the 160-acre homestead and set out to fulfill his father's vision. He partnered with real estate developer Charles Roser, and together the two shaped the future of the island.
Roser and Bean formed the Anna Maria Beach Company, which laid out the streets and built the foundations for the island's growth. Roser brought a "flavorful" backstory, as he is credited with creating the Fig Newton. Much of the fortune he made from that chewy cookie went into Florida real estate. Their combined work turned a scenic patch of shoreline into a destination people travel across the country to see.
When you stand at Bean Point (and you will!), you'll appreciate the foresight of these visionaries who kept this island simple, uncluttered, and connected to nature.
Bean Point Beach: Fun Facts & Cool Features
If you enjoy wildlife, bring your binoculars! You may spot a white ibis or snowy egret probing the shallow waters. Laughing gulls and killdeer swoop the skies or hop along the beach. If you turn your attention to the surf, you can often see brown pelicans diving for fish, dolphins cutting through the waves, or manatees drifting close to shore. Depending on the season, sea turtles waddle ashore to build nests in the sand. As tempting as it'll be to get close, give them plenty of space; after all, this is their home, not yours.
One of the beach's most interesting features is its water. Here, the warm Tampa Bay mingles with the colder Gulf waters, creating swirling waves together, rip tides, and nutrient-rich water. While this is a paradise for dolphins, manatees, sharks, and seabirds, it is a danger zone for humans.
Which brings us to our serious point: the No Swim Zone signs marking the Fern Street access point and sweeping east to the Rod and Reel Pier. At this section of beach, the turquoise water is deceptive. Sudden drop-offs, swift currents, rip tides, and strong tides have claimed many lives. One story involves the death of an individual just 5' from shore. So, even if you're in the best shape of your life, heed the warnings and do not get in the water!
Now that we have the bad news out of the way, let's move to the beach's top draws: swimming and sunsets! The safest spots for wading and swimming are at two access points on North Shore Drive past Fern Street down to Newton Lane. You may park in the neighborhood as long as you adhere to the parking sign guidelines.
Aside from the water, Bean Point is renowned for its sunsets! It's also prime time to look for sand dollars and seashells. When the sun dips beyond the horizon, you'll understand why couples seek it out or those wanting that Instagram-worthy picture.
Whether visiting for the surf or the sunset, remember there are no restrooms, restaurants, or lifeguards. Plan ahead and bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and anything you'll need for the day.
Bean Point Beach offers soft sand, clear water, and room to breathe. Come for the sugar-white sand but stay for the sunset. You won't regret it!
Local Tips
- Take the free Anna Maria Island Trolley and skip the parking hassle.
- There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk.
- Look for the small "Public Beach Access" signs on N. Shore Drive.
- Bring a small bag for collecting sand dollars and seashells.
