As one of the only remaining fishing villages on the Southwest Coast of Florida, Cortez, just west of Bradenton, is rich in history and full of saltwater fun for the whole family, from pirate ship cruises and watersports to annual events that pay tribute to the community’s maritime heritage.
Visitors here will find a working waterfront, marinas, shops, restaurants serving fresh-caught seafood, and opportunities for parasailing and a slew of other on-water activities, with local tour operators and rental companies offering boat, jet ski, and paddleboard rentals, fishing charters, boat tours, and more.
Cortez Beach, just across the Cortez Bridge on Anna Maria Island, offers 140 feet of pristine shoreline to enjoy the turquoise waters of the Gulf. To get acquainted with the area’s history, visitors can take the Cortez Village Walking Tour and check out the Cortez Cultural Center and the Florida Maritime Museum, which is housed in a brick schoolhouse built in 1912.
Local events that celebrate the community’s fishing culture and heritage include the weekend-long Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival in February Cortez Stone Crab & Music Festival in November. In March, the Florida Maritime Museum hosts the Cortez Nautical Flea Market, where shoppers can browse fishing and nautical gear and coastal arts and crafts.
Plan your trip to Bradenton Gulf Islands.
BEACHES
Spend time on the picturesque beaches.
WATERWAYS
Explore the bays surrounding Cortez.
FAMILY FUN
Find plenty of kid-friendly activities in and around Cortez.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & CULTURE
Visit the museum and check out historic landmarks.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Go parasailing, rent a boat or jet ski, and do some fishing.
ACCESSIBILITY
Check out accessible attractions in the area.
DINING
Enjoy fresh seafood on the waterfront.
SHOPPING
Shop for unique products and locally-caught fish.
PLACES TO STAY
Choose from a wide variety of places to stay in Cortez and the surrounding areas.
