Plan your trip
Getting here
Three airports within about an hour, one bridge at each end of the island, and a free trolley once you're here.
Getting there
Approximate driving distance and time to Manatee Public Beach with no traffic, calculated with OpenStreetMap routing (OSRM). Island traffic (especially on the bridges on weekends and in season) can add a lot more. Routes from Tampa and St. Pete may include toll roads or bridges.
Once you're here
Coming from downtown Bradenton? The Gulf Islands Ferry lands at the Bridge Street Pier. Check bridge traffic before you drive over.
Driving in on Manatee Avenue? The Palma Sola Causeway has a bay beach, horseback rides, jet skis and a dog-friendly shoreline before you even reach the bridge.
Park once and ride the free island trolley, or rent bikes or a golf cart. See the island rules, parking tips and Essentials.