 Located just north
of Sarasota County and south of Tampa Bay, Manatee County is
comprised of six distinctive communities. Bradenton and
Palmetto are the largest and are situated on the mainland facing
each other across the Manatee River. Manatee County's
barrier islands are home to the other four communities including
Longboat Key, Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. Manatee
County is rich in history as in the earlier years the plentiful
waterways provided a ready source of transportation.
Bridges tied the land together and Manatee County began to
appeal to visitors as a vacation and retirement destination for
many. Baseball also found the warm, moderate climate
conducive to the sport, bringing spring training camps and
professional teams to the area. While maintaining a rich
heritage, Manatee County has experienced steady growth through
the years. Manatee
County has become a favorite locale not just for retirees, but
for growing young families and business
professionals. Despite the growth, Manatee County
remains much the same as it was years and years ago. Sun
bleached beaches are still caressed by balmy breezes and
aquamarine waves continue to ebb and flow along the shores of
our mainland and barrier islands. And the mild-mannered
manatee for which the county was named still calls the area
home. |
