Hurricane Recovery
Newsletter
Travel Guide
Sustainability
Hurricane Helene Recovery
Recovery on Bradenton Area’s Gulf Islands
The Bradenton Area is fully focused on recovering from the effects of Hurricane Helene and paving our way forward as a hospitality community. As we allow our island communities time to recover in the wake of Hurricane Helene, our mainland hotels, nature preserves, and restaurants remain open for visitors to experience the diverse beauty of our destination.
Updates on Recovery Efforts
While our mainland communities of the Bradenton Area were relatively untouched, our barrier islands and the Village of Cortez did suffer damage from Hurricane Helene. Mainland businesses, hotels, nature preserves, attractions, and restaurants are open for families to experience and enjoy. The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau will continue to provide the latest updates for visitors on this page.
Our hospitality industry is resilient and has already started the recovery process, thanks to statewide partners like the Florida Department of Transportation and our local governments.
As the path to reopening Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key is underway, we know that so many want to support their beloved beach communities and local business owners. Government agencies are currently assessing the needs of our hospitality industry, including the best way to financially support them. Check this page for more information as it becomes available.
Donation
Many have expressed interest in helping the Bradenton Area barrier island communities recover from Hurricane Helene and we thank you so much for your support. There are many ways to help our community, including financial donations through Oysters Rock’s Shuckin’ Good Cause and The Center of Anna Maria Island. Both funds will benefit Bradenton Area hospitality employees and community members who are struggling in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
If you’d like to volunteer time and labor to help island clean up, please check the Center’s website for updated contact info at centerami.org or register with Manatee County Government at mymanatee.org/helenevolunteer.
Stay tuned to our pages for more updates on our island’s recovery and the best ways to enjoy your visit to the Bradenton Area.
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Need more information? Continue to check back for the latest updates and sign up for our newsletter to learn more about recovery progress and what’s open.
Transportation
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) has remained open and is servicing all normal routes.
The Gulf Islands Ferry service is indefinitely suspended as the Bradenton Area team assesses damage to the docks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Traveling to the Bradenton Area soon? Here are answers to some of the most frequent questions. If you need additional information, please contact your travel agent, airlines or accommodations for specific details.
Is the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport open?
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport remains open at this time.
How do I know if my flight is on time?
Visitors are asked to coordinate with their airline provider for delays and any changes to scheduled flights.
Is it safe to visit the Bradenton Area? How will I know when it’s safe to visit?
Yes, while our beaches and barrier islands remain closed, the Bradenton Area has a wide variety of attractions that visitors can experience safely. Mainland hotels, nature preserves, and restaurants all remain open for families to experience the beauty of our destination. Check this page for the latest updates. Learn more about things to do in the Bradenton Area.
What can I do in the Bradenton Area besides visiting Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key’s beaches?
Most of the Bradenton Area’s nature preserves are open, offering scenic kayaking and paddling and hiking adventures. Additionally, mainland Bradenton’s shops, restaurants and hotels are open to residents and visitors.
Can I access Anna Maria Island and/or Longboat Key? What is open on Anna Maria Island?
Manatee County is currently assessing damage and impact to Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key.. Per local law enforcement, access to Anna Maria Island is granted ONLY to property owners and business owners of Holmes Beach and the City of Anna Maria to assess damage to their businesses and properties. Those wishing to access the island MUST HAVE A RE-ENTRY TAG. Access to Longboat Key is only open to residents and business owners at this time. Access to Longboat Key by way of Longboat Pass remains closed.
How do I find out if my hotel or rental house is still booked?
Please contact your rental property management company, hotel or accommodations partner directly for more information.
Can I get a refund if my stay was impacted? boats?
Visitors who had planned vacations to Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key are encouraged to contact their rental property management company, hotel or accommodation partner for more information regarding refunds for planned stays.