One of the first things trip-planners ask about Anna Maria Island is a practical one: how should we get around once we are there? You have three main options, a golf cart, a bike, or your car, and each has its place. This honest comparison breaks down the cost, convenience, and fun of each so you can pick what fits your trip.
Spoiler: for most visitors, a golf cart wins, and we will explain exactly why. But there are times a bike or a car makes sense too, so let’s look at all three.
The Three Ways to Get Around Anna Maria Island
At a glance, here is how the options stack up.
| Option | Best for | Parking | Fun factor | Weather-proof |
| Golf cart | Families and groups exploring the island | Easy | High | Open-air |
| Bike | Couples and active travelers, short trips | Very easy | High | Open-air |
| Car | Big grocery runs and off-island trips | Hard in season | Low | Yes |
Now the details.
Getting Around by Golf Cart
A golf cart rental on Anna Maria Island is the sweet spot for most visitors. The island is small and made for open-air cruising, and a cart carries your whole group plus beach gear.
The upsides: – Fits couples, families, and groups with our 4, 6, and 8 passenger carts – Easy to park near beaches, Pine Avenue, and the piers – Open-air fun the whole family enjoys – Free delivery and pickup right to your rental
The trade-offs: – You need a valid driver’s license and personal auto insurance to rent – It is open-air, so it is less ideal in heavy rain – Not built for trips off the island
For getting around the island itself, it is hard to beat. Explore our golf cart rentals to see the sizes.
Getting Around by Bike
Bikes are a fantastic option for couples and active travelers who want to keep things simple, and e-bikes make longer rides effortless.
The upsides: – No license or insurance needed – Park just about anywhere – Great exercise and easy on the wallet – E-bikes let you cover more ground without the sweat
The trade-offs: – Limited room for gear and people – Less practical for big groups or long beach-day hauls – Open to the weather
If a bike sounds like your speed, take a look at our bike and e-bike rentals.
Getting Around by Car
Your car is not useless on the island, but it is often the least convenient way to get around once you are there.
The upsides: – Weather-proof and air-conditioned – Best for big grocery runs or day trips off the island
The trade-offs: – Parking near the beaches and Pine Avenue is limited and fills up fast in peak season – You miss the open-air island experience – More hassle than it is worth for short hops
Many visitors park the car for most of the trip and only use it to leave the island.
So, What Is the Best Way to Get Around Anna Maria Island?
For the majority of visitors, a golf cart is the best all-around way to get around Anna Maria Island. It carries the whole group, parks easily, keeps the trip fun, and skips the peak-season parking battle. A bike is a great pick for couples or anyone who loves an active, simple ride, and a car is handy for big supply runs and off-island trips. Plenty of families rent a cart for the island and simply leave the car parked until it is time to head home.
The good news is you do not have to choose just one. Many visitors pair a cart with a set of bikes for variety, and we can deliver both to your door.
Rent From a Local, Family-Owned Shop
Whatever you choose, renting from a local family makes it easier. Crabby Joe’s offers carts, e-bikes, cruisers, kayaks, and beach gear all in one place, with free delivery and pickup anywhere on the island. We are on Pine Avenue in the heart of Anna Maria and always happy to help you pick the right ride. Book online or reach out to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get around Anna Maria Island?
For most visitors, a golf cart is the best way to get around. The island is small, parking is limited, and a cart carries the whole group in the open air. Bikes suit couples and active travelers, while a car is best for off-island trips.
Do you need a car on Anna Maria Island?
Not for getting around the island itself. Many visitors rent a golf cart or bikes and leave the car parked, using it only for big grocery runs or trips off the island.
Is it better to rent a golf cart or a bike on Anna Maria Island?
It depends on your group. A golf cart is better for families and groups who want to carry gear and ride together, while a bike is ideal for couples and active travelers making shorter trips.
Is parking hard on Anna Maria Island?
In peak season, parking near the beaches and Pine Avenue fills up quickly, which is a big reason many visitors choose a golf cart or bike over a car.
Can you rent both a golf cart and bikes?
Yes. Many visitors pair a cart with bikes for variety, and we can deliver both right to your vacation rental.
Pick Your Ride and Go
However you like to explore, Crabby Joe’s has the right ride for your island trip. Compare our golf cart rentals and bike rentals, or call us at 855-272-2295 and we will help you choose. We will handle delivery and pickup so you can start the fun the moment you arrive.
