Manatee County, FL Mobile Homes for Sale

Manatee County: Gulf Coast Charm South of Tampa Bay

Discover Manatee County, a captivating slice of Florida's Gulf Coast beautifully positioned just south of Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg. Where the scenic Manatee River flows into the sparkling Gulf of Mexico, this county offers a delightful spectrum of experiences, from the relaxed, "Old Florida" ambiance of its barrier islands to the vibrant culture and history found on the mainland.

Famous for the stunning, laid-back beaches of Anna Maria Island, Manatee County also boasts thriving arts communities, expansive nature preserves perfect for kayaking and hiking, and significant historical sites. Whether you're looking to unwind on sugar-white sands, explore unique galleries in colorful bungalows, catch a Spring Training baseball game, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the coast and river, Manatee County provides a diverse and welcoming Florida escape.

Points of Interest in Manatee County:

1. Anna Maria Island: A breathtaking barrier island known for its powdery white-sand beaches (like Coquina Beach, Manatee Public Beach, Bean Point), lack of high-rise buildings, charming "Old Florida" vibe, boutique shops, local eateries, and historic fishing piers (Anna Maria City Pier, Rod and Reel Pier, Bridge Street Pier). Encompasses the cities of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach.
2. Robinson Preserve (Bradenton): An expansive coastal nature preserve offering miles of paved and unpaved trails for hiking and biking, dedicated waterways for kayaking and paddleboarding through mangroves, observation towers with panoramic views, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
3. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature (Bradenton): The largest natural and cultural history museum on Florida's Gulf Coast. Features exhibits on Florida history (from prehistory to the present), a state-of-the-art Planetarium, and the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat.
4. Village of the Arts (Bradenton): A unique and eclectic live-work community featuring hundreds of brightly colored historic cottages transformed into artist studios, galleries, workshops, restaurants, and B&Bs. Explore during the popular monthly Artwalks.
5. LECOM Park (Bradenton): The historic (opened 1923) Spring Training home of Major League Baseball's Pittsburgh Pirates and the regular-season home of the Minor League Bradenton Marauders. Offers a classic ballpark atmosphere.
6. Manatee Riverwalk (Bradenton): A scenic 1.5-mile park stretching along the Manatee River in downtown Bradenton. Features walking and biking paths, a fishing pier, splash pad, skate park, beach volleyball courts, event lawn, and public art installations.
7. De Soto National Memorial (Bradenton): Commemorates the 1539 landing of Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto. Offers picturesque nature trails along Tampa Bay, a visitor center, and living history demonstrations during the winter season.
8. Gamble Plantation Historic State Park (Ellenton): Home to the only surviving antebellum plantation mansion in South Florida. Take guided tours of the historic house, explore the grounds, and visit the museum.
9. Lake Manatee State Park (East Bradenton): Situated on the shores of the Lake Manatee reservoir, this park provides opportunities for freshwater swimming, fishing, boating (boat ramp access), camping, and hiking on nature trails through pine flatwoods.
10. Emerson Point Preserve (Palmetto): Located at the mouth of the Manatee River where it meets Tampa Bay, this preserve features important Native American historical sites (Portavant Temple Mound), hiking trails through diverse coastal habitats, an observation tower, and kayak/canoe launch points.
11. Palma Sola Botanical Park (Bradenton): A peaceful 10-acre park featuring diverse collections of native and exotic plants, tranquil walking paths, lakes, gazebos, and volunteer-maintained gardens.

Whether you're seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, adventures in coastal nature, artistic inspiration, or a journey into Florida's past, Manatee County offers a rich array of attractions easily accessible from the Tampa Bay region.