Tampa Bay Online.com
Published: April 2, 2009

Bradenton Beach is the epitome of 'old Florida.' Seaside inns and small cottages line this stretch of beach located on the southern end of Anna Maria Island.

This quaint community has not been polluted with mammoth hotels or chain restaurants.

Small stores offering live bait and shells are scattered on Gulf Drive, along with pizza and ice cream shops.

The center of town celebrates the Historic Bridge Street, the first bridge to connect the island community to the mainland. At the bay end of Bridge Street, is a restored fishing pier.

A free parking lot, just south of the landmark, is recommended for beach access and shopping. There isn't any parking along Gulf Drive and traffic backs up easily on the two-way road. Some areas are also private access only.

Head south toward the whispering Australian pines and you'll find Coquina Beach, a large public recreational area fronting the Gulf of Mexico.

Don't forget your picnic basket at this family-oriented beach. The large trees provide a perfect setting for a picnic or just relief from the sun.

Coquina Beach also has a small playground, concession stand, showers and lifeguards.

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