jssailem
SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
- Oct 22, 2014
- 21,267
Depending where exactly you are interested in there is one on the Manatee River and more on the south end of Anna Maria as well as another on Anna Maria just on the East side of the island Manatee Avenue.Don, are you aware of any good launching ramps down there for us trailer sailors??
It’s changed since then. Now, you have to speak ‘new york’ to understand the snowbirds. Fortunately, they leave soon.I grew up in Bradenton (actually Bayshore Gardens) back in the 60s. Anna Maria was "our" island, and the south end was "our" beach. There was a 25 cent toll on the Cortez Rd bridge, but we gladly paid it to access beautiful white sands of what is now called Coquina Beach. There was no development or improvements down at the south end, no concrete and rock groins until the mid 60s, no restrooms or concessions. I remember small airplanes, probably Piper Cubs, landing in the grass in the center of the island about where the parking lots are now. Some of my early sailing memories were watching boats make their way north or southbound about a mile offshore, and I always wanted to be on them.
If you want some local history, the adjacent Crosley mansion is worth a visit. The house isn’t as pretentious as Ringling’s but has a nice breakwater and dock space at which he would park his toys. It’s nice to pull in there and pretend...Today was Ringling Museum. Thanks to all who plugged it here. Amazing place, a must see. Had the "John" tour, put us in his rooms and on the tower patio. Incredible place!