(TIE) 5. Longboat Key Beaches and Anna Maria Island Beaches

The beaches on Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island tie for fifth place depending on the experience you want.  Longboat Key offers a long stretch of dreamy white sand spanning the entire Gulf Coast with a select number of public access points to spots like Whitney Beach which will make your sunset experience have a private feeling. Anna Maria Island offers a string of crisp white public beaches like Holmes Beach which attract larger groups and families. If you want to share the sunset alongside others gathered for the spectacle, this is the place for you. Both areas offer great vantage points for a gorgeous sunset. 

4. Bean Point

This public beach is located at the northern tip of Anna Maria island and is considered a hidden gem. Bean Point offers a serene, relaxed vibe that is difficult to find on most public beaches making this one of the best beaches to watch the sunset. Coupled with its sugar-white sands and views of Tampa Bay, you have plenty to feast your eyes on, making this a special place to watch the sunset in the Bradenton Area. We always suggest bringing a blanket to sit on and someone special to snuggle with as the temperatures drop once the sun disappears.

3. The Tower at Robinson Preserve

Be at one with nature while you watch the sunset in the Bradenton Area. Visit Robinson Preserve, which includes 487 acres of coastal saltern, marsh, and a mangrove habitat. The area includes a 53-foot tall tower tucked amongst the lush natural habitat and is the perfect lookout for stunning views while you watch the sun descend. Gates close at dusk and there are no lights in our preserves, so you’ll need to head out shortly after sunset.

2. DeSoto National Memorial Trail

The DeSoto National Memorial Trail takes you along the Manatee River where it flows into Tampa Bay. There you can watch the sun go down. In addition to the sunset, you’re sure to see birds, fish jumping out of the water, small crabs and sometimes even a dolphin or manatee! 

1. Emerson Point Park

Where the mouth of the Manatee River meets Lower Tampa Bay is where you’ll find Emerson Point Park. This 365-acre preserve is located at the tip of Snead Island and is full of historic remains, giving a sense of what Manatee County was like in ancient times. A network of trails surrounded by coastal Florida wildlife offers a sunset hike with stunning views and a connection to history. Remember, gates close at dusk, so you’ll need to leave the preserve shortly after soaking in the sunset.

Keep in mind there are countless other places to watch the sunset in the Bradenton Area. Any spot can be a good spot to watch the sun go down!