Start With an Island Morning A couple holding hands walks along the beach at sunset, with the ocean on the left and dunes with vegetation on the right, under a vibrant pink and orange sky.  Arrive early for the best experience. Anna Maria Island is beloved for its relaxed, small-town beach atmosphere, but parking at popular beach areas can fill quickly—especially on weekends, holidays, and during peak travel seasons. Begin your day at Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach. It is one of the island’s most convenient beach choices for visitors because it offers a broad stretch of Gulf sand, beach access, nearby amenities, and a large public parking area. It is…