How to Track the Free Anna Maria Island Trolley with the myStop App
Getting around Anna Maria Island doesn't always require a car. The free Anna Maria Island Trolley makes it easy to travel between the island's beaches, restaurants, shops and popular attractions—and with real-time trolley tracking, you can spend less time waiting at a stop and more time enjoying your vacation.
The Anna Maria Island Trolley, also known as MCAT Route 5, travels the length of the island between Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach and the Anna Maria City Pier on the north end of the island.
Using the myStop app, visitors can check trolley locations and estimated arrival information right from their phone.
Is the Anna Maria Island Trolley Free?
Yes! The Anna Maria Island Trolley is fare-free, making it one of the easiest and most budget-friendly ways to explore the island.
The trolley travels along Anna Maria Island from Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach through Holmes Beach and north to the Anna Maria City Pier. Service currently operates daily from approximately 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., with trolleys generally arriving every 20 minutes throughout most of the day.
Because traffic conditions can affect arrival times—especially during busy vacation periods—checking the trolley's location before heading to your stop can be helpful.
How to Track the Anna Maria Island Trolley in Real Time
The myStop app provides real-time information for Manatee County public transportation, including the Anna Maria Island Trolley.
Once you download the app, select Manatee County as your transit authority and look for Route 5 – AMI Trolley.
The app can help you:
- View trolley locations on a live map
- Find nearby trolley stops
- Check estimated arrival times
- Identify the correct route and direction
- Set optional arrival notifications for your stop
This can be especially useful during busy times of year when island traffic may cause the trolley to run a little differently than the printed schedule.
Where Does the Anna Maria Island Trolley Go?
One of the best things about the trolley is how much of Anna Maria Island you can explore without having to move your car.
The route stretches from Coquina Beach on the southern end of Bradenton Beach to the Anna Maria City Pier on the north end of the island.
Along the way, the trolley provides convenient access to many popular areas, including:
- Coquina Beach
- Bridge Street and Bradenton Beach
- Manatee Public Beach
- Holmes Beach
- Gulf Drive
- Pine Avenue
- Anna Maria City Pier
That makes the trolley a convenient option for spending the morning at the beach, heading out for lunch, shopping along Pine Avenue or Bridge Street, or simply exploring a different part of the island.
Northbound or Southbound? Check Before You Board
Before hopping aboard, make sure you're traveling in the right direction.
If you're heading toward Anna Maria and the City Pier, you'll want the northbound trolley. If you're traveling toward Bradenton Beach or Coquina Beach, look for the southbound route.
The myStop map can help you locate the appropriate stop and see where the next trolley is along the route.
Don't Have the myStop App?
You can still use the Anna Maria Island Trolley without downloading an app.
Trolley stops are located throughout the island, and current route and schedule information is available through Manatee County Area Transit. Some trolley stops also provide QR codes that can be scanned with a smartphone to check arrival information for that location.
For travelers who prefer printed information, it's a good idea to review the current Route 5 Anna Maria Island Trolley schedule when planning your day.
Why Use the Trolley During Your Anna Maria Island Vacation?
Parking can be limited in some of Anna Maria Island's most popular areas, particularly around beaches, restaurants and shopping districts during busier seasons.
The free trolley gives visitors another way to explore without having to search for a new parking space every time they want to go somewhere.
It can also be part of the fun. Instead of concentrating on traffic, you can sit back, enjoy the island scenery and hop off when you reach your next destination.
Island Tip
If your vacation rental is within walking distance of a trolley stop, consider leaving your vehicle parked for part of the day. Take the trolley to explore another part of the island, have lunch, visit the beach or do a little shopping, then ride back when you're ready.
Explore Anna Maria Island Without the Parking Hassle
From the beaches of Bradenton Beach to the shops and restaurants of Holmes Beach and the laid-back charm of Anna Maria, the free island trolley makes it easy to experience more of Anna Maria Island during your stay.
And when you choose a vacation rental in a convenient island location, you may find that some of your favorite beaches, restaurants, shops and trolley stops are just a short walk away.
Find Your Anna Maria Island Vacation Rental
Planning your next Gulf Coast getaway?
Browse Island Real Estate Vacations properties throughout Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach to find the vacation rental, amenities and location that fit your trip.
Whether you want to stay close to the beach, near restaurants and shopping, or within easy reach of the free island trolley, your Anna Maria Island vacation starts with finding the right place to call home.
About the Author - Midline Lozin
Midline is one of the newest members of the Island Real Estate Vacations team. With a strong background in customer service and vacation rental operations, she enjoys helping guests plan their stays and making their vacation experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. In her role, Midline assists guests with vacation rental bookings and provides support throughout their time on Anna Maria Island.
