Clearwateris the kind of Gulf Coast town that knows how to balance energy with relaxation—think beaches that stretch on forever, a pier that never sleeps, and so many things to do a single visit just won’t cut it, particularly on foot.

With a Clearwater golf cart rental, though? You’ll be able to cover much more ground and soak in the atmosphere much better than you could in a car. 

Things to do by golf cart in Clearwater

Start your day at Pier 60, where sunrise paints the water gold and the early risers snag the best spots on the sand.

If you don’t feel like staying at the beach, you can stroll down the boardwalk and grab a freshly brewed coffee from Clear Sky Caféwhile you keep an eye out for dolphins in the distance. 

If you’re up for more, the Clearwater Marine Aquariumis a must-visit; just make sure to get there before the crowds trickle in.

In the afternoon, Clearwater is buzzing, which makes golf cart exploration a lot more convenient and lets you cruise between surf shops, boutiques, and seafood joints without ever having to hunt for parking.

Try a grouper sandwich at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill, then grab a drink at Beach Shanty before heading back to the shore, where you’ll be able to relax at the beach while taking in the scenery.

Not in the mood for the beach? The Ream Wilson Clearwater Trailand the Moccasin Lake Natural Parkare great options if you’d rather go for a fun nature hike!

Got a single day to spend on the island? No worries, we know how to make it special! Grab your golf cart, fill your water bottle, and get ready for the best Anna Maria Island day trip out there! 

Start Your Day in Style

The best mornings on Anna Maria Island start with salt air and zero rush. This is the time for barefoot walks, strong coffee, and early views before the crowds awake.

Start with breakfast at North Short Caféor Ginny’s & Jane E’s, both local-favored spots that serve plenty of charm with a side of caffeine. Order a to-go cup and head over to Bean Point, a spot you’ll find in all Anna Maria Island travel guides for a good reason: it has incredible views of the Gulf.

Early morning is also the best time to visit Anna Maria Island if you’re looking to spot some turtles, so hit Bean Point early or Bayfront Park. It’s not certain you’ll find any turtles, but your odds are better than later in the day.

And if that doesn’t work? You’re now at the beach early anyway, so you can secure the best spots if you want to spend some time relaxing at the beach, or you can go shell hunting before the crowds arrive. Win/win no matter how you spin it. 

Midday Boutiques and Bites

As the sun climbs, AMI comes alive, but thanks to your golf cart vacation rental, you’ll be coasting away from the midday traffic in no time flat.

This is your window for exploring, eating, and visiting all the best things to do in Anna Maria Island, so make sure to cram in as many things as possible. 

A good way to start is by driving or walking down Pine Avenue, a beautiful street lined by boutiques and artisan shops. Here, you’ll be able to find handmade jewelry, breezy linen shirts, and even quirky souvenirs at popular spots like Pink & Navyor The Shiny Fish Emporium(which is always a hit with the kids.)

If you’re still in the mood for shopping, you can head over to Coquina Beach Market(open Wednesdays and Sundays) or head south for a swim near Manatee Public Beach. 

Once your belly starts rumbling again, head over toRod & Reel Pieror Bridge Street Bistro, where you’ll be able to enjoy laid-back but delicious lunches with incredible views of the ocean.

Want something quicker? Poppo’s Taqueriais a local legend where you can build your own tacos, or you can visit Two Scoops Ice Creamif you’re looking for something sweet. 

Pro Tip: Pine Avenueis also one of the best places to stay on Anna Maria Island, as you’ll find tons of vacation rentals and other accommodations just a few steps away from the action (and the beach). 

Remember, at Beach Ride Rental, we deliver our carts straight to you, so just let us know where you’re staying, and you’ll find your cart waiting when you arrive.

Afternoon Adventures

Now that you’ve had your tacos and done your shopping, it’s time to stretch your legs (or not; you can always just keep driving your vacation rental golf cart) and hit some Anna Maria Island attractions that’ll take you beyond the sand.

A solid idea? Booking a kayak and paddling through the mangroves, where you’ll be able to see pelicans and other aquatic birds. 

If you’d rather not paddle, you can always sign up for a dolphin cruise at the Bradenton Beach Marina, and if you’d rather not go in the ocean, you can always visit the Leffis Key Preserve, where you’ll find shaded trails, an observation tower, and beautiful—yet water-free—views of the bay. 

If you’re still in planning mode, some Anna Maria Island vacation packages bundle these excursions with vacation rentals, which makes them a steal if you’re traveling with a crew or want to lock in a few activities early. 

Speaking of booking things early, don’t forget to do the same with our golf carts. We have 4-seaters, 6-seaters (electricand gas), and 8-seaters, so you’ll be able to drive with the whole squad, no problem.

Sunset & Dinner

If you only plan one thing all day, make it this: catching the sunset on Anna Maria Island.

Whether it’s from Bean Point, the rocks at Cortez Beach, or on your golf cart along Coquina, the golden hour on the island is pure magic.

Want to make it a whole evening? Start with drinks at The Sandbar Restaurant, where toes-in-the-sand dining pairs perfectly with the unbeatable Gulf-front views. For a more low-key vibe, you can check out Harry’s Grillor The Waterfront Restaurant, both beloved for their cold drinks and delicious seafood.

Anna Maria Island restaurants and dining range from upscale to ultra-casual, and sunset is when they shine. You’re sure to find some place you’ll love; just make sure to roll in early and make reservations if you want to secure a spot. 

Take your time to order, enjoy the atmosphere, and don’t skip dessert. You’ve got an Anna Maria Island vacation rental waiting for you, so you can relax. 

By the time the sky turns pink, you’ll understand what makes Anna Maria Island unforgettable and why folks are already planning their next trip well before they leave.

Clue: No, it’s not just AMI’s beaches. It’s the whole thing.

One of the best places to visit inTreasure Island, FL, this beachfront path winds along the coast with wide, paved lanes that make it perfect for a laid-back drive.

Park your cart near 104th Avenue and hit the trail on foot, or stop at Sloppy Joe’sor Ricky T’sfor lunch with a view. The choice is yours, and, trust us, you’re not starved for it; you’ll find local surf shops, café patios, souvenir stands, and plenty of shady spots to pull over and soak it all in. 

It’s a can’t-miss highlight of any golf cart tour of Treasure Island, especially if you’re looking to hit all the major spots!

Keep in mind that you can’t drive your rental golf cart on the trail itself, but you can park nearby and walk it. Look for public lots around 104th Avenue or side-street parking just off Gulf Boulevard for the quickest access. 

Any driver out there knows that not all parking spots are equal, and that goes for golf carts as well. 

Don’t worry, we’re not about to spring different rules for different areas on you. It’s just that some areas in Dunedin have objectively better parking spots for golf carts, and at Beach Ride Rental, we want to make sure you know the very best. 

Main Street + Downtown Dunedin

Downtown Dunedin is where the vibes are, and thankfully, golf carts are welcome here, too. Better yet, downtown parking rules for golf carts are not too different from regular rules.

You’ll find standard vehicle spaces available for carts (yes, you can park in them), and during non-event days, there’s plenty of room near the shops, breweries, and restaurants, too, so sometimes, you don’t even have to go looking for special spots.

Just keep an eye out for signage during festivals and big events, as some blocks become pedestrian-only or have restricted hours for golf cart access. 

Edgewater Park + The Marina

If you’re looking for a scenic stop near the water, you can’t go wrong with Edgewater Park, where you’ll find relaxing spots to chill and walk as you take in the sights and the laid-back atmosphere. 

Parking here puts you steps away from the marina boardwalk, picnic tables, and dolphin-spotting views. You just need to arrive early to secure a good spot.

Beach Access Zones

While Dunedin isn’t your typical stretch of sand-and-towel coastline, there are a handful of coastal access points near the Dunedin Causewaythat are perfect for golf cart adventuring. 

You can usually snag a spot along Causeway Boulevard (where legal) or in the nearby lots; just be mindful of time limits. 

Heading toward Honeymoon Island? Golf carts aren’t allowed in the state park itself, but you can park just before the entrance and hop off to explore on foot.

Trailheads + Hidden Gems

Exploring the Pinellas Trail? Smart move; it’s a fantastic way of getting some exercise before exploring the city. Just keep in mind that, no matter how small, golf carts aren’t allowed on the trail itself. 

Don’t worry, though. Parking near the trail entrances—like the one off Douglas Avenue—lets you stroll straight into beautiful bike paths and local art installations, which make this an obligatory spot if you’re the active sort of traveler. 

Here’s a handy-guideon the rules you should keep in mind if you’re exploring the Pinellas Trail.

Every summer brings a few surprises, but these new attractions for Tampa Bay’s 2025 summer might be the best lineup yet. 

From interactive exhibits to rooftop cocktails, there’s something fresh around every corner, and with a cart, you’ll never be circling blocks looking for parking.

Mornings on Clearwater Beach are better when you can roll right out the door.

With one of our carts waiting in your driveway, you can toss in your cooler, sunscreen, and beach chairs, then cruise straight to the sand; no circling for a spot, no stressing about meters. (And yes, we deliver your cart to where you’re staying!)

That’s the beauty of a vacation golf cart rental in Clearwater Beach: you start the day on your own schedule. Our carts slip into spots that cars can’t, so while others are still stuck in traffic, you’re already stretching out on the shoreline. 

Pro tip: If you’ve booked one of our electric six-seaters, charge your cart overnight and keep it lightly packed; you’ll thank yourself when you’re zipping down Gulf Boulevard with the whole crew ready to go.