One of the more popular beaches on Anna Maria Island is the Manatee Public Beach located in Holmes Beach.  It allows for very easy access since it is at the end of Manatee Avenue (State Road 64) which is one of three access points to the island.  Its located at 40th street and Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach.  The Public Beach boasts a very large FREE parking area that handles 120 parking spots however there are plenty of times that the parking is not adequate for the demand.   There is a trolley stop at the public beach.  Amenities at the public beach are bountiful, a pier, lifeguards, showers, volleyball courts, playground, swings, slides, gift shop, bathrooms, comfort foods, covered eating area with picnic tables, and plenty of sand.  It’s a great place to spend an afternoon people watching or just relaxing at the beach with your family.  The public beach is officially 900 feet in width although its difficult for even locals to see where the park really ends since the entire island has public beaches.  Within a walk to the beach is a popular restaurant called Skinny’s that serves alcoholic drinks and concessions.  Bring plenty of water and some snacks for children as the heat can quickly take its toll on active children.  For more information call Manatee County Parks and Recreation Department at (941) 742-5923.