The Best Beach Hotels to Book in Bradenton, Florida

Staying at a Bradenton beach hotel will set up a memorable Florida vacation
Staying at a Bradenton beach hotel will set up a memorable Florida vacation | © SpringHill Suites Bradenton Downtown / Riverfront / Expedia
Sara Darling

If you’re looking for fun in the sun, Florida has something to offer the whole family, and with more than 1,300mi (2,900km) of coastline, each region has its own personality. Visitors flock to the Gulf Coast city of Bradenton for its colorful Village of the Arts, the scenic Riverwalk and nearby Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island – a barrier island with sugar-soft sand and a laid-back vibe. If this slow pace of life appeals, you’ll love our picks of the best hotels on the beach in Bradenton, all bookable on Culture Trip.

1. BridgeWalk - a Landmark Resort, for living in your swimsuit

Resort, Hotel

Outdoor pool area with two handrails and steps into the pool at BridgeWalk - a Landmark Resort
Courtesy of BridgeWalk - a Landmark Resort / Hotels.com

This Bradenton beach hotel is just one block from the ocean, and close to all the amenities on historic Bridge Street. Hop across the road in your swimsuit for a dip before breakfast. If you’re more of a lounger than a bather, make use of the complimentary beach towels, umbrellas and chairs provided by the hotel or just hang out at the poolside bar. From the studio apartments to the two-bed townhomes, most of BridgeWalk’s accommodations come with whirlpool tubs and screened verandas.

2. Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound, for marina views

Hotel

Sofa, tables and chairs in a waterside living area at Compass Hotel by Margaritaville, with a large bed in the room behind
Courtesy of Compass Hotel by Margaritaville / Hotels.com

If you know your port from your starboard and love a nautical theme, the boutique Compass Hotel will float your boat. Situated at the gateway to Anna Maria Island, the property overlooks the bobbing yachts of Safe Harbor marina. At sunset, enjoy the view from the outdoor infinity pool with a cocktail in hand. Afterwards, grab a waterfront seat at on-site Floridays Woodfire Grill and Bar, where you’ll also be treated to a complimentary full American breakfast in the morning.

3. Tortuga Inn Beach Resort, for a private beach oasis

Hotel

A turtle water feature in the outdoor pool area at Tortuga Inn Beach Resort, with several chairs beside it
Courtesy of Tortuga Inn Beach Resort / Hotels.com

Connected to a private white-sand beach by a wooden footpath, Tortuga Inn is a family-friendly hotel on Anna Maria’s main drag. Palm motifs and beachy prints mimic the surroundings in the spacious studios and apartments, which feature fully equipped kitchens and terraces. The rooms are scattered across several low-rise buildings surrounded by tropical gardens. If you don’t want to sun yourself on the beach, grab a deckchair next to the two pools, one of which overlooks the bay.

4. Seaside at Anna Maria Island Inn, for direct beach access

Hotel

Outdoor pool area at Seaside at Anna Maria Island Inn, with steps and a handrail into a circular pool
Courtesy of Seaside at Anna Maria Island Inn / Hotels.com

If you’re looking for a hotel on the beach in Bradenton, you can’t get much closer than Seaside at Anna Maria Island Inn. With access to the white sands through patio doors, these rooms offer unobstructed views of the beach and the gulf. Settle in for a day of sun worshiping on the umbrella-shaded loungers in front of the hotel, which sit on a private patch of sand. The restaurants and bars of Bridge Street are 1mi (1.6km) away, meaning everything is within walking distance – but you won’t be disturbed by rowdy neighbors.

5. Tropic Isle at Anna Maria Island Inn, for poolside mingling

Hotel

People sit on chairs in the garden outside Tropic Isle at Anna Maria Island Inn, with tall palm trees and other flora
Courtesy of Tropic Isle at Anna Maria Island Inn / Hotels.com

Footsteps from the sand, Tropic Isle is the picturesque Brandenton beach house of your dreams. Located at the same property as Seaside, all of its rooms are spread around a pool, with private patios or balconies where you can enjoy the gulf breeze. When you crave sand between your toes, collect a beach towel from reception and head down to the funky tiki huts on the private beach. If you want to explore the town, the free trolley stops just outside.

6. Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort, for a classic beachside stay

Resort

Large bed, brown sofa and kitchenette inside Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort
Courtesy of Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort / Expedia

This Anna Maria mainstay is a classic, family-friendly, beach-themed hotel with 50 rooms and studio apartments. Its enviable location on a stretch of private beach means you can spend days lounging on the sand or enjoying a massage by the ocean. If you’re looking for a little more excitement, rent a jet ski, catamaran, paddleboard or kayak. Pick up a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast, and you’ll be set for the day.

7. Bungalow Beach Resort, for a taste of the Caribbean

Resort

Several shaded loungers on white sand at Bungalow Beach Resort
Courtesy of Bungalow Beach Resort / Expedia

You’d never guess that this property was once an army barracks. Each beach bungalow draws inspiration from the Caribbean and Old Florida – think white wicker furniture, fans, skylights, private porches and Ralph Lauren linens. You can go barefoot to the private beach, just steps away, or relax with a cocktail on a cushioned, poolside lounge chair, surrounded by swaying palm trees.

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