Largest city on Anna Maria Island with a strong local identity
Holmes Beach, located on Anna Maria Island off the Bradenton coast, has successfully blended the business of tourism with the pleasure of living full-time in a waterfront community. “A good thing about Holmes Beach is that the short-term rental housing is concentrated in one specific area. So you have nice neighborhoods throughout, where you can walk around and meet your neighbors,” says Jason Sato, a Realtor with Sato Real Estate who grew up in Holmes Beach.
The city of around 5,000 full-time residents is the largest of the three municipalities comprising Anna Maria Island. It’s located between the small cities of Anna Maria and Bradenton Beach and is connected to the Bradenton mainland by the Anna Maria Island Bridge. Its population is roughly five times that of either of its island sisters. Its status as a tourist haven ultimately has been a benefit to the residents who call the city home. “Growing up in Holmes Beach and living on Anna Maria Island now, from a resident standpoint, tourism has meant more shops, more restaurants and more activity.”
Many Holmes Beach homes include private docks for boating and waterfront access.
Holmes Beach is ranked among the most beautiful beach towns in the United States.
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Single-family homes range from beach cottages to estates
The city’s distinct residential identity is strengthened by the relative affordability of its housing. “Holmes Beach is probably best if you’re not looking for a home that you can rent out,” says Sato. “It’s the best bang for your buck on Anna Maria Island. You can find a nice home here for under $1 million. You can’t do that anywhere else on the island.” Single-family housing consists of cozy beach homes, traditional ranch-style homes, elevated coastal homes and waterfront estates. “There’s a wide range in prices,” says Sato. “From under $1 million to just over $10 million.” Condominiums, which are more prevalent in Holmes Beach than the other two cities, start in the $600,000 range.
Holmes Beach has many single-level ranch homes ideal for easy living near the water.
Sprawling Holmes Beach estates feature resort-style pools and tropical landscaping.
Holmes Beach condominiums offer low-maintenance living near beaches and shops.
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A local A-rated elementary and B-rated mainland schools
Students can attend Anna Maria Elementary, an A-rated school in Holmes Beach, and mainland schools, Martha B. King Middle and Manatee High, a B-rated institution that is the oldest public high school in Bradenton.
Anna Maria Elementary in Holmes Beach serves 195 students with an A-rated curriculum.
Martha B. King Middle School near Holmes Beach has 914 students and a B rating.
Manatee High School serves Holmes Beach and is one of Bradenton’s largest public schools.
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More beaches and boatable canals than other island cities
Water is the obvious center of recreational activity in the city, which features more beaches than the other municipalities combined. Manatee Public Beach is a popular gathering spot along the Gulf of Mexico. The beach also features sand volleyball, children’s play areas and a gift shop for when the relatives come to visit. There are two boat ramps in the city, providing convenient access to the bays on the other side of town that connect to the open waters of the Gulf. Many of the residential streets are on fingers of land that create unique opportunities for boaters. “There’s more access to the beach and boating than in the other areas,” says Sato. “Holmes Beach has the most boatable canals, so there are more options for boaters. There are also way more waterfront homes for the boaters.” A city park provides additional recreation, including courts for tennis and pickleball and a skating rink. The Key Royale Club offers its members exclusive access to a 9-hole golf course, the only course on the island.
Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach has showers, restrooms, and a tiki bar for beachgoers.
Kayakers can access Anna Maria Sound from Holmes Beach’s many launch points.
Holmes Beach offers sunshine, soft sand, and clear Gulf waters for beach lovers.
Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach features the island’s only private golf course.
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Marina Drive is home to shops, taverns and local favorites
Retail and dining options are concentrated along Marina Drive, which features the Island Shopping Center and Duffy’s Tavern, an island institution known for its burgers. Residents also have access to a full-service Publix and an array of eateries throughout the city. Popular among the locals are Skinny’s, another established eatery offering warm food and cold beer, and The Ugly Grouper, a funky Old Florida restaurant with a 3,000-pound metal fish out front. Those looking for upscale waterfront dining will find it at Beach Bistro.
Visitors might be greeted by colorful parrots at the Island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach.
Duffy’s Tavern in Holmes Beach is a longtime favorite for burgers and casual island dining.
Publix in Holmes Beach is a convenient spot for groceries and everyday essentials.
The Ugly Grouper in Holmes Beach serves seafood with a side of local art and island vibes.
Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach offers upscale dining with Gulf-front views.
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Photography Contributed By
Leila Sally
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Stacy Cunneen,
an experienced agent in this area.
On average, homes in Holmes Beach, FL sell after 102 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Holmes Beach, FL over the last 12 months is $1,075,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Steps to the Beach: A Deluxe Retreat with Massive Rental Power! Why choose between a vacation home and a smart investment? This stunning, fully remodeled villa offers the best of both worlds. Nestled just a short stroll from the sand, this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom sanctuary w/ private garage is a masterpiece of coastal design. But the beauty is more than skin deep—this property is a proven earner,
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to this extensively renovated waterfront residence in the highly desirable Key Royale community. This 4-bedroom, 4-bath home pairs elevated coastal living with modern improvements and direct boating access to the Gulf.Renovated from top to bottom, including a redesigned chef’s kitchen features high-end finishes and opens to spacious
This newly remodeled open floor plan Anna Maria Island Hideaway is nestled in the heart of the island in Holmes Beach just off of Marina Drive. Just 4 blocks to the award winning white sandy beaches of Anna Maria. This home is now offered FULLY FURNISHED as a MOVE-IN READY island dream come true. A deeded boat slip and 13,000 lb lift can be available 50 yards from the front of the property in a
Steps to the Beach: A Deluxe Retreat with Massive Rental Power! Why choose between a vacation home and a smart investment? This stunning, fully remodeled villa offers the best of both worlds. Nestled just a short stroll from the sand, this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom sanctuary w/ private garage is a masterpiece of coastal design. But the beauty is more than skin deep—this property is a proven earner,
Tucked away in a quiet area of the island in a lush, tropical setting just moments from the beach, this beautiful 5BD/4BA residence captures the essence of coastal living with effortless style and thoughtful functionality, offering an exceptional opportunity in a desirable weekly rental zone. Framed by swaying palms and vibrant landscaping, the home welcomes you into a light-filled interior where
THIS is the ultimate beachfront "Turn-Key" Investment where shorter-term rentals are permitted. Skip the furniture trucks and design stress and start enjoying a fully furnished vacation home that pays you when you're not using it! Located in the heart of one of the world’s top beaches, Anna Maria Island, this spacious and open concept features a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom slice of paradise has a
Spectacular bay views define this recently renovated 4-bedroom, 4-bath waterfront home in Holmes Beach, set on a large bayfront lot with exceptional waterfrontage and sweeping open water vistas. Positioned at the end of a quiet bayside street, the property captures some of the most expansive bay views on Anna Maria Island. Renovated within the past year, the home blends updated finishes with
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to Shell Point, a lovely waterfront community in the heart of Holmes Beach. If extra space is what you need this unit has it with the back lanai that is all remodeled part of the air conditioned space. This lovely updated condo is conveniently located near the Holmes Beach Boat ramp, tennis courts, basketball courts , dog park, and all
Set within the beachfront enclave of Playa Encantada, this beautifully maintained two-bedroom, two-bath residence offers an effortless coastal lifestyle just steps from the sand and the island trolley — placing the area's finest shops, restaurants, and attractions within easy reach.Inside, an open and light-filled layout creates an inviting sense of space. The kitchen is appointed with
Sweeping Gulf sunsets, sugar-white sand, and the unmistakable charm of Anna Maria Island — now offered at a refreshed price. Perched on the 5th floor of the Martinique, this rarely available beachfront residence puts the entire horizon at your feet, where turquoise water stretches as far as the eye can see and the nightly sunset show never plays the same way twice.Floor-to-ceiling glass pulls
First-floor corner unit with amazing bay views in the waterfront community of Westbay Cove on Anna Maria Island. This 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo offers a bright, functional layout with abundant natural light and peaceful views of the bay. The kitchen features custom cabinetry, tile backsplash, and newer appliances, and opens to the main living area and enclosed Florida room. The Florida room
Beachfront Bliss – Gulf Views from Every Angle! Just one house from the beach, this 4-bedroom, 4-bath coastal stunner delivers postcard-perfect Gulf views straight from the kitchen sink—yes, you’ll actually smile while scrubbing plates! Natural light throughout, high ceilings, 2 sided fireplace, wet bar in the living room, open living area that flows into a chef’s kitchen. Stainless steel
Nestled along a serene canal and embraced by a curtain of mature tropical palms, this custom-remodeled residence unfolds as a private coastal estate—an intimate sanctuary where luxury, tranquility, and effortless island living exist in perfect harmony. Masterfully re-imagined by Eason Builder Group, the home was completely gutted and rebuilt just four years ago, and last year the entire first
Tucked away on a quiet, picturesque street in the heart of Holmes Beach, this ELEVATED WATERFRONT retreat offers a rare private coastal sanctuary. Perfectly positioned on a sprawling 225-foot waterfront SAILBOAT-DEPTH CANAL with NO FIXED BRIDGES and DIRECT ACCESS to Bimini Bay, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the shimmering GULF OF MEXICO. Wrapped in lush, tropical landscaping and framed by a
Set along the shimmering Gulf shoreline in the heart of Holmes Beach, this rare Anna Maria Island parcel invites you to bring your coastal vision to life. Just moments from powdery white sands and within easy reach of the area’s charming boutiques, local dining, and laid-back island attractions, the location strikes an ideal balance between tranquility and vibrant beach town energy. Whether you
Property Id: 2501662Beachfront, 2nd floor,Turnkey furnished, 55+ Community, 2 pools and sunset deck.6 or 7 month lease available beginning May 15th. Walking distance to shops and restaurants. Parking for one car at your back door.Application, First, Last and security deposit required.
The advertised rate of $5,864/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of October 25, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Experience luxury island living in this fully furnished waterfront estate located in the exclusive North Point Harbor community of Holmes Beach on the highly sought-after northern end of Anna Maria Island. Offering approximately 3,640 square feet, this impeccably maintained custom home features 5 bedrooms, a versatile bonus room, and 6 bathrooms (4 full, 2 half), perfectly designed for
BOAT SLIP #12 FOR RENT... Available for a 25' boat. 2' draft. Water available. 12 month lease. $50 application fee. 1st, last & $500 deposit required for lease. Canal located off Bimimi Bay & open water. No fixed bridges. Sub-leasing NOT permitted.
Beachside Luxury Rental – 3BR, 2.5BA with Pool Live just steps from the sand at 4808 Gulf Drive Unit B, an upscale and fully furnished 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located in the heart of Holmes Beach. Available for starting July 19th, this multi-level coastal retreat blends modern comfort with laid-back island living—perfect for a long vacation or seasonal stay. Step into a bright, open-concept
Annual turnkey furnished rental available for a 4.1.26 move in. Nestled on a quiet street in Holmes Beach, this renovated 2 BR / 1 Bath Island Cottage may just be what you are looking for. Be on vacation 365 days of the year. Relax on the pristine Gulf Beaches of Anna Maria Island which are just a short walk away. Explore local shops and venues using the local Island Trolley located just up the
Monthly Vacation Rental. Contact agent for exact pricing per month. Waterfront canal home with private dock (ideal for boating & fishing)Private heated pool + outdoor living space. Recently renovated + professionally decorated. Pet-friendly (small pets allowed) Whether you're a snowbird, remote worker, or relocating, this home is set up for comfort beyond a typical vacation rental. Enjoy
Fully furnished coastal retreat available for weekly rentals. Minimum 7 Days Lease REQUIRED. No smoking and no pets. $200 Cleaning Fee required from Tenant. 6 Guest Occupancy MAX. 2 Parking Spaces available in the driveway. Long term rental also available based on availability. $1500 Weekly FLAT RATE + $200 Cleaning Fee OR $4400 Monthly FLAT RATE + $250 Cleaning Fee. Property is listed on Airbnb
All-Inclusive Island Living with Stunning Bay Views. Live where others vacation! This second-floor 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo offers a commanding view of the Bay and a refreshed interior that feels like home. Enjoy recent upgrades including fresh paint throughout, brand-new bathroom vanities, and newer carpet. The layout is designed for long-term comfort with an in-unit stack washer/dryer and an
UNFURNISHED ANNUAL LEASE, OR FURNISHINGS OPTIONAL!! Don't miss this opportunity to LIVE close to many of Manatee County's beautiful beaches, including Anna Maria. Spacious and bright 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo with Water Views. This amazing unit features a carport and two storage areas. Updated Kitchen & Baths, Laminate floors, and lovely furnishings OR RENT IT UNFURNISHED! Relax and enjoy the Gulf,
Beautifully renovated 2BR/2BA half duplex available for rent in Holmes Beach. This fully furnished property has been completely updated — everything is brand new and thoughtfully selected. The home is fully equipped and move-in ready — just bring your flip-flops and bathing suits.Enjoy a welcoming front patio, beautiful tropical landscaping, and a fully fenced yard offering privacy and
Experience elevated island living in this fully renovated 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom waterfront home in the heart of Holmes Beach. Perfectly positioned on a deep-water canal with no bridges to open water, this property offers direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf, along with beach access just two blocks away. Designed for both comfort and lifestyle, the home features a brand-new
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