Historic Anna Maria City Pier: Over a Century of Island History & a New Beginning (Temporarily Closed)
Originally written by Larry Chatt | Updated October 27, 2026
Editor's Note: This article has been updated to reflect the impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024, ongoing reconstruction of the Anna Maria City Pier, and the latest anticipated reopening plans as of October 2026.
For more than a century, the Anna Maria City Pier has been one of Anna Maria Island's most recognizable landmarks. Stretching into the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay, this historic gathering place has welcomed generations of residents, fishermen, families, and vacationers looking to experience a little Old Florida charm.
From its beginnings as a steamboat landing in 1911 to its many transformations following major hurricanes, the City Pier has remained an important part of Anna Maria Island's story.
Today, another chapter is taking shape as reconstruction continues following the devastating hurricanes of 2024.
Pier Status Update — October 2026: The Anna Maria City Pier remains temporarily closed while reconstruction and renovations are completed. The rebuilt walkway is in place, and work continues on the buildings and amenities at the end of the pier. City officials are targeting a reopening before the end of 2026, although an official date has not been confirmed.
The History of the Anna Maria City Pier: Where It All Began
The Anna Maria City Pier dates back to 1911, long before the island became the popular vacation destination we know today.
The pier was developed through the efforts of early island pioneers Charles Roser and Will Bean, whose father, George Emerson Bean, was one of Anna Maria Island's earliest homesteaders.
Originally extending approximately 776 feet into Tampa Bay, the pier served as an important arrival point for steamboats traveling from Tampa and St. Petersburg. Before the first bridge connected Anna Maria Island to the mainland in 1922, arriving by water was an essential part of island life.
Steamboats such as the Favorite and Mistletoe brought visitors to the island, helping establish Anna Maria as a desirable coastal retreat.
Over time, the pier evolved from a transportation hub into a beloved destination for fishing, sightseeing, dining, and simply enjoying the peaceful waterfront atmosphere.
A Historic Landmark That Has Weathered Many Storms
Living along Florida's Gulf Coast means that hurricanes and tropical storms have always been part of the island's history.
Throughout the decades, the Anna Maria City Pier experienced damage from several significant storms, including those in 1918, 1935, 1974, and 1988.
However, Hurricane Irma in September 2017 marked a major turning point.
The storm caused extensive structural damage, ultimately leading to the demolition of the aging pier in 2018. Rather than abandoning this treasured landmark, the City of Anna Maria moved forward with plans to rebuild it.
The City Pier Reopens in 2020
After nearly three years of closure and reconstruction, the Anna Maria City Pier reopened in June 2020.
The new structure followed the historic pier's footprint while incorporating more durable building materials, including reinforced concrete pilings and hardwood decking.
The rebuilt pier also featured new buildings at its eastern end, eventually accommodating the City Pier Grill and Bait Shop and a marine education facility operated by Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium.
For residents and returning vacationers, the reopening represented the return of an important piece of island life.
Visitors could once again stroll over Tampa Bay, watch fishermen cast their lines, look for dolphins and seabirds, and enjoy beautiful waterfront views.
Hurricanes Helene and Milton Bring New Challenges in 2024
In September and October 2024, Anna Maria Island experienced the devastating effects of two major hurricanes in quick succession.
Hurricane Helene brought significant storm surge and flooding to the island in late September. Less than two weeks later, Hurricane Milton struck Florida's Gulf Coast on October 9, causing additional widespread destruction.
The Anna Maria City Pier suffered extensive damage, with approximately half of its walkway destroyed during Hurricane Milton.
Fortunately, the buildings at the far end of the pier remained standing, although they sustained damage requiring repairs and renovations.
The pier was closed to the public, beginning another chapter of rebuilding for this historic landmark.
Rebuilding the Anna Maria City Pier: Progress in 2026
Restoring the City Pier has been a significant undertaking, with improvements designed to create a stronger, more resilient waterfront structure.
The latest reconstruction includes reinforced concrete pilings and structural improvements intended to better withstand future coastal weather conditions.
By summer 2026, the new walkway had been rebuilt, allowing attention to shift toward the buildings and facilities at the pier's eastern end.
Additional work has included repairing storm damage, addressing water intrusion, renovating public restrooms, and preparing the buildings for future use.
As of October 2026, construction continues, with city officials working toward reopening the pier before the end of the year.
While the anticipated reopening is exciting news, visitors should remember that construction schedules can change. We recommend confirming the pier's operating status before planning a visit.
What's Coming to the Anna Maria City Pier?
Along with the return of fishing and sightseeing, plans are underway for a new waterfront dining destination called PIERadise.
The planned establishment will bring food, beverages, and bait and tackle services back to the pier, helping restore the casual waterfront experience that made this location so popular.
Plans also include an expanded dining area and space for visitors to enjoy views of Tampa Bay.
PIERadise is expected to open in conjunction with, or shortly after, the pier's reopening, depending on the completion of construction and preparations.
For more about the former restaurant and what visitors can expect from the new dining concept, explore our Anna Maria City Pier Grill guide.
Why the Anna Maria City Pier Means So Much to the Island
The Anna Maria City Pier has always been more than a place to fish or admire the water.
For generations, it has been a gathering place where families have made vacation memories, couples have enjoyed quiet walks, and residents have watched the island change while holding on to its Old Florida character.
The pier has also been a favorite spot for observing pelicans, seabirds, passing boats, and the occasional dolphin swimming through Tampa Bay.
Its history reflects the island's resilience, from the early days of steamboat travel to the modern efforts to preserve one of Anna Maria's most treasured landmarks.
While the structure has changed over time, the connection between the pier and the community remains.
Exploring the City of Anna Maria While the Pier Is Closed
Even while reconstruction continues, there's plenty to enjoy near the historic City Pier.
Just a short distance away, Pine Avenue offers a wonderful collection of locally owned boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and shops.
Visitors can spend an afternoon exploring the charming streets of Anna Maria, enjoying a meal, or discovering the island's unique history.
For another glimpse into the island's waterfront heritage, learn about the historic Rod & Reel Pier, another beloved landmark affected by the 2024 hurricanes.
And, of course, no visit to the north end of Anna Maria Island would be complete without spending some time enjoying its beautiful beaches, including the peaceful shoreline around Bean Point.
Experience the History and Beauty of Anna Maria Island
The Anna Maria City Pier has been part of island life for more than 100 years, and its story is still being written.
As reconstruction progresses, residents and visitors alike look forward to the day when this historic landmark once again welcomes fishermen, families, and vacationers to its waterfront.
Whether you're returning to a favorite vacation destination or discovering Anna Maria Island for the first time, there's something special about exploring a place with so much history and character.
Planning your next island getaway? Browse our Anna Maria vacation rentals and discover the perfect home base for exploring the island's beautiful beaches, local attractions, and historic landmarks.
At Island Real Estate Vacations, we're proud to help visitors experience everything that makes Anna Maria Island such a special place to return to year after year.
Explore More of Pine Avenue
There's so much more to discover along this charming stretch of Anna Maria Island! From locally owned boutiques and delicious restaurants to sweet treats and historic landmarks, Pine Avenue is a destination worth exploring. Check out our complete guide to Pine Avenue on Anna Maria Island to plan even more stops during your island getaway.
About the Authors
Larry Chatt — Original Author
This article was originally written by Larry Chatt, sharing the history and significance of the Anna Maria City Pier and its place in the Anna Maria Island community.
Meet Larry Chatt. Larry is the Broker/Owner of Island Real Estate – and has owned Anna Maria Island investment property while residing in New England, Ohio, Colorado, Iowa and across Europe. He and his family have been on the island for decades and Larry has served his community in various roles with the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce
Island Real Estate Vacations Editorial Team — 2026 Update
Updated in October 2026 by the Island Real Estate Vacations editorial team to preserve the pier's history while providing current information about hurricane recovery, reconstruction, and future plans.
