Created in 1855, Manatee County includes the incorporated cities of Anna Maria, Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key and Palmetto.
Palmetto - the city of Palmetto, found in Manatee County south of Tampa Bay, boasts Palmetto Historical Park with several historic buildings; Palmetto Estuary Park, which offers ample wildlife observation opportunities; and the annual Tomato Festival.
Bradenton - The city of Bradenton, just south of Tampa Bay in Manatee County, boasts a thriving art community, plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, a wealth of private and public golf courses and the spring training home of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Longboat Key - the town of Longboat Key, split between Manatee and Sarasota counties in the Tampa Bay area, boasts clear Gulf waters, pristine beaches and great waterfront dining opportunities.
Holmes Beach - The city of Holmes Beach, found in Manatee County on the Gulf of Mexico, is the largest of the three island cities on Anna Maria Island, is home to almost 5,000 permanent residents and is a top Tampa Bay area tourist destination.
Bradenton Beach - The city of Bradenton Beach, a charming beach community of about 1,500, is found at the southern end of Anna Maria Island on the Gulf of Mexico in Manatee County.
Anna Maria - The city of Anna Maria, found on the northern tip of Anna Maria Island on Tampa Bay, is a residential community known for world class beaches, old Florida lifestyle and great fishing.
The Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce website offers ample information about this barrier island just south of the mouth of Tampa Bay which is divided into three cities, including Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach.
