The free Anna Maria Island Trolley and the Monkey Bus are different services. The trolley follows a scheduled route; the Monkey Bus takes ride requests. Choose based on your pickup point, destination and return time.
Trolley or Monkey Bus?
- Anna Maria Island Trolley: Manatee County’s Route 5 is free. The county lists daily service from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., between the City Pier area and Coquina Beach, with service about every 20 minutes. Check the current route and service notices before leaving.
- Monkey Bus: Call 941-565-6542 to ask about a pickup, the current fare, operating hours and your destination. Do not assume it follows the trolley timetable or that a ride is free.
Plan the return trip
Check the nearest stop to your accommodation and allow time for the walk at both ends. For dinner reservations, leave room for traffic and waiting time. If you need an accessible ride, are traveling with children or want to bring bulky beach gear, confirm the arrangements with the operator before setting out.
For the trolley’s current route and updates, use Manatee County’s Route 5 information. For Monkey Bus contact details, see the Bradenton Gulf Islands visitor listing.
Choosing where to stay
A convenient location can reduce how often you need to drive. Compare the location of your Anna Maria Island vacation rental with the places you expect to visit. Our guides to Holmes Beach restaurants and Bradenton Beach restaurants can help you plan an evening out.
Prefer your own transport? See our bike, golf cart and Jeep rental guide.
