Neighboring Cities: Bradenton | Anna Maria | Holmes Beach | Palmetto | Town of Longboat Key | Sarasota | Bayshore Gardens | Cedar Hammock | Ellenton | Oneco | Palma Sola | Rubonia | Samoset | Tallevast | Parrish | St. Petersburg | Tampa | Clearwater | Manasota
Bradenton Beach is part of Manatee County and its total area is about 1.1 square miles, while about half it is water. Before the city of Bradenton beach was incorporated in 1952, the community was known as Cortez Beach. It was in 1921-1922 that the first bridge was constructed that connected the Village of Cortez to Bridge Street on the island. Then in 1926, a bridge that connected it to Longboat Key was built. In the late 20's, the name changed to Bradenton Beach when an editor for the Bradenton Herald began calling the city by that name. Bradenton Beach has miles of "sugar sand beach." Cortez Beach lies in the northern section and Coquina Beach lies to the south. Bradenton Beach maintains three different parks: Katie Peirola Sunset Park, Lou Barola Park, and Herb Dolan Park. They also maintain Coquina Park, Coquina Bayside and Leffis Key Nature Walk. The historic Bradenton Beach City Pier provides spectacular views and great fishing with supplies available right there. The Richard P. Suhre Pavillion is a great place to fish or enjoy the view, and is a popular spot for weddings and other special events. |