A Remote Florida Beach With Pristine White Sand Offers A Quiet And Secluded Coastal Escape

With an extensive coastline that's more than 8000 miles long, Florida is home to some of the best beaches that are fun for the whole family. From Clearwater Beach in the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America) to Henderson Beach State Park in Destin, the Sunshine State has something for every beachgoer. You'll find travelers building sand castles, swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying different water-sports at different times of the year.

While this is a good thing, as it means most American sun-seekers do not have to go outside the country to experience white soft sand and turquoise waters, some of these popular and scenic beaches are the most crowded, especially during peak season. Fortunately, not all beaches in the state have this problem. A case in point is Bean Point Beach.

With soft white sands and blue Atlantic waters, the beach is one of the most quiet and peaceful areas on Anna Maria Island. The undeveloped beach has no official parking, no crowds, or lifeguards on-site, just crystal-clear waters and the most stunning sunset vistas. It's about a mile from the city of Anna Maria, and about 20 miles northwest of Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ). The beach's history dates back to 1892, when George Emerson Bean (the beach's namesake) settled on the land and constructed a 160-acre home. His son, George Wilhelm Bean, took over the vast estate in 1898 after the elder George Bean died. The land remained private property until recently, when it was opened to the public.

The main highlight of Bean Point Beach is privacy. With no official parking lot and very few facilities, few people visit the beach. Unlike other popular beaches in the state that are awash with crowds, this secluded spot is ideal for travelers seeking to unwind in a peaceful environment. In addition to the tranquility and an extensive white sand shoreline, it offers stunning Gulf views, making this northern part of Anna Maria Island one of the most beautiful coastlines worth a visit. Beachgoers can sunbathe on the beach, nap in isolation, take a dip in the pristine waters, build sand castles, or take a laid-back stroll along the shoreline. Just make sure you bring what you'll need on your visits, as there are no lifeguards, stores, or restaurants on the beach.

Bean Point Beach is also a flora and fauna hotspot. Birdwatchers will have opportunities to spot lots of native birds, including spoonbills, storks, pelicans, seagulls, and ospreys. Wildlife buffs, on the other hand, can see animals such as dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees. Shore fishing is also another popular activity on the beach, especially during spring. Anglers have opportunities to catch different types of fish, including mackerel, pompano, and flounder. If shelling or beach-combing is your thing, the beach has something for you, too!

Go for a stroll along the shore during low tide to discover different types of sand dollars, shark eyes, and angel eyes. In the evening, when you are done exploring what the beach has to offer, sit back and relax or take a stroll along the shoreline and witness Anna Maria Island's majestic sunset vista with pink, red, and orange colors.

Beyond Bean Point Beach, there's an abundance of things to enjoy and do in the nearby city of Anna Maria Island. For more fishing opportunities, head to Bridge Street Pier. Perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers, the area is awash with different types of fish, including sheepshead, redfish, and snook. And that's not all the pier has in store for visitors. 'Instagrammers' will find tons of opportunities for capturing the beautiful landscapes, or seagulls as they swim in the crystal clear waters. In addition, down the street, there are several cafes, galleries, and stores you can explore.

Nature enthusiasts will find Leffis Key Preserve incredibly thrilling. The must-visit destination around the world for avid hikers is located about seven miles south of Bean Point Beach. It features various types of boardwalks and hiking trails that wander through enchanting habitats, and opportunities to spot manatees, dolphins, and different types of birds.

If shopping is your thing, pause by Pine Avenue. The stretch is dotted with art galleries, home décor stores, jewelry stores, and boutiques. The avenue also hosts a wide array of bakeries, the classic Green Village, and the Anna Maria Island Historical Society that preserves and shares the history of the barrier Island.