You pull up to your island rental, the sun is out, the Gulf is a quarter mile away, and the last thing you want to do is spend your vacation hunting for parking. Good news: on Anna Maria Island, you do not have to. Here, the golf cart is not just a way to get around, it is part of the vacation itself.
If it is your first time renting one, you probably have questions. Are they street legal? What do they cost? Do you need a license? This guide covers everything you need to know about Anna Maria Island golf cart rentals so you can book with confidence and spend less time planning and more time cruising.
Why Rent a Golf Cart on Anna Maria Island?
Anna Maria Island is only about seven miles long, and it was practically made for slow, open-air travel. A golf cart lets you reach the beaches, Pine Avenue shops, and waterfront restaurants without circling for a parking spot that may not exist in peak season.
There is also the simple fact that it is more fun. You feel the salt air, you wave at neighbors, and the kids get a kick out of every ride. For couples, families, and groups alike, Anna Maria golf cart rentals turn getting around into one of the best parts of the trip. Ready to see your options? Take a look at our golf cart rentals.
Are Golf Carts Street Legal on Anna Maria Island?
Yes. Street-legal golf carts, sometimes called low-speed vehicles, are allowed on most Anna Maria Island roads with lower posted speed limits, as long as the driver meets a few requirements. Crabby Joe’s rents only street-legal carts, so you are road-ready from the moment you pick up.
That said, a few important rules apply, so here is what you need to know before you drive.
What You Need to Rent a Golf Cart
To rent and drive a street-legal golf cart on the island, you will need:
- A valid driver’s license. Every driver must be licensed, so keep it on you while driving.
- A personal auto insurance policy. Because our carts are street legal, you must have your own auto insurance to rent one, and the required forms must be submitted before you can drive.
- To meet the minimum rental age. Rental age minimums apply, so confirm the details when you book.
Our team walks you through the quick paperwork before you head out, so nothing catches you by surprise.
Where You Can and Cannot Drive
Street-legal carts can travel on most local roads across Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach that have lower speed limits. A few things to keep in mind:
- You cannot drive on the beach or on the sand
- You must obey posted speed limits and normal traffic laws, just like in a car
- Some roads and state highways may be off limits to carts
Local cart rules can differ slightly between the island’s three cities and can change over time, so when in doubt, ask our team for the current do’s and don’ts. We live here, and we are happy to point you in the right direction.
How Much Do Golf Cart Rentals Cost on Anna Maria Island?
The cost of golf cart rentals on Anna Maria Island depends on three things: the size of the cart, how long you rent it, and the time of year. Larger carts cost more than smaller ones, and daily rates are higher per day than weekly rates, so a week-long rental is usually the better value. Peak season, roughly winter through spring break, is the busiest and most in-demand time.
The best part is what comes included: free delivery and pickup right to your vacation home or resort anywhere on the island. Because rates change with the season and availability, the smartest move is to check live pricing for your dates on our golf cart rentals page.
Choosing the Right Cart Size (4, 6, or 8 Passenger)
We offer 4, 6, and 8 passenger street-legal carts, so there is a fit for every group:
- 4 passenger: ideal for couples or a small family
- 6 passenger: the sweet spot for a standard family
- 8 passenger: perfect for big families and groups who want to ride together
When in doubt, size up. It is nice to have room for beach gear, coolers, and the occasional extra friend.
The Best Things to See on Anna Maria Island by Golf Cart
Once you have your cart, the island is yours. A few local favorites worth cruising to:
- Pine Avenue for shops, dining, and the heart of Anna Maria
- Bean Point at the north tip, where the Gulf meets Tampa Bay, especially at sunset
- Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach for its historic pier and shops
- The beaches, including Manatee Public Beach and Coquina Beach, with easy cart parking
- The Rod and Reel Pier for a bite and a photo over the water
Want to make a full day of it? Pair your cart with our beach gear rentals for chairs and umbrellas, grab a set of bikes for a change of pace, or head out on the water with our kayak rentals.
Golf Cart Rental Tips for Your Island Vacation
A few insider tips to get the most out of your rental:
- Book early. Carts sell out in peak season, so reserve as soon as your dates are set.
- Use free delivery. We drop the cart at your rental so it is waiting when you arrive, and you do not even need to be home.
- Pack sun protection. Carts are open-air, so hats and sunscreen go a long way.
- Never leave valuables in a parked cart.
- Plan a sunset cruise. It is an island tradition for a reason.
- Know the cancellation policy. You can cancel up to 7 full days before your rental for a full refund. See our cancellation policy for details.
Why Rent From a Local, Family-Owned Shop
There are a few ways to rent a cart on the island, but there is a real difference between a big chain and a local family that actually lives here. Crabby Joe’s is family-owned and island-local. We answer the phone, we know the island inside out, and we treat you like a neighbor rather than a number.
We are also a one-stop shop. Along with Anna Maria golf cart rentals, we offer e-bikes, beach cruisers, kayaks, paddleboards, and beach gear, all with free delivery and pickup. You will find us right on Pine Avenue in the heart of Anna Maria, across from the island’s only public kayak launch. Have a question? Just reach out or book online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a driver’s license to rent a golf cart on Anna Maria Island?
Yes. Every driver must have a valid driver’s license to operate a street-legal golf cart, and you also need a personal auto insurance policy to rent one. Passengers do not need a license, but the person driving always does.
How old do you have to be to drive a rental golf cart?
You must have a valid driver’s license, and rental companies set their own minimum age to rent, so confirm the exact age requirement when you book with us.
Can you drive a golf cart on the beach on Anna Maria Island?
No. Golf carts are not allowed on the beach or the sand. You can drive them on most local island roads with lower speed limits, then park and walk onto the beach.
How many people fit in a rental golf cart?
Our street-legal carts come in 4, 6, and 8 passenger sizes, so you can match the cart to your group. Families and larger groups usually go for the 6 or 8 passenger option.
Do you deliver golf carts to your vacation rental?
Yes. We deliver and pick up right at your vacation home or resort anywhere on Anna Maria Island, and you do not need to be home. Your cart is ready and waiting when you arrive.
Ready to Explore the Island?
A golf cart is the easiest, breeziest way to experience Anna Maria Island, and renting one is simple. Pick your dates, choose your cart, and we will handle delivery and pickup so you can focus on the fun. Reserve your Anna Maria Island golf cart rental online today, or call us at 855-272-2295 and we will take care of the rest.
