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Photo: 2017 Sarasota Cortez Beach Seagulls 1 FRD 7001 by Fred Hsu on en.wikipedia (CC BY-SA 3.0) License

Cortez Beach

Beach · Bradenton Beach, Florida

Rainy todaycamping-nearby

Tucked away on Anna Maria Island, Cortez Beach offers 140 feet of undeveloped shoreline with powdery white sand, clear turquoise Gulf waters, and an "Old Florida" charm that's hard to find. The calm, warm waters rival Caribbean conditions and are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. During turtle season, marked sea turtle nests dot the shore, and dolphins and manatees are frequent visitors. Free admission and roadside parking, though no lifeguards or restrooms on the beach itself.

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Current water conditions

Water temp
89°F
32°C
Warm water — comfortable, stay sun-safe. Plenty warm for swimming. Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and keep an eye out for afternoon storms.

Live data from NOAA buoy PMAF1 (14.7 mi away), as of Aug 20, 9:54 PM UTC. Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly — always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories before swimming.

Weather at Cortez Beach

H: 92° L: 82°
Patchy rain nearby
Patchy rain nearby
87°
|
Feels like 100°
Precipitation
29%
Humidity
77%
Wind
9 mph
UV Index
0.4
Water Conditions:
🏊Perfect for swimming🌧️Rain expected
12 AM
Clear
87°
3 AM
Overcast
83°
6 AM
Cloudy
83°
9 AM
Cloudy
83°
12 PM
Patchy rain nearby
87°
3 PM
Patchy rain nearby
91°
6 PM
Patchy rain nearby
88°
9 PM
Patchy rain nearby
85°

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Frequently asked questions

Where is Cortez Beach?
Cortez Beach is a beach in Bradenton Beach, Florida.
What is the water temperature at Cortez Beach?
As of August 20, 2026, the water temperature at Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach, Florida is 89°F (32°C), measured by NOAA buoy PMAF1, 14.7 miles away.
Can you swim at Cortez Beach?
There is no fixed answer for Cortez Beach: whether it is safe to swim there on a given day depends on the water temperature, recent rainfall, and any advisories posted at Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach, Florida. Check current water conditions before you go, and follow posted signs and local guidance.
How is Cortez Beach rated?
Cortez Beach in Bradenton Beach, Florida has an average visitor rating of 4.7 out of 5, based on 2668 reviews.
What amenities does Cortez Beach have?
Visitor-listed amenities at Cortez Beach include camping-nearby.

Visitor Reviews

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Been here? A quick note helps the next visitor plan their day. Handy things to mention:

Water temperatureCrowds & parkingBest time to goSafety & access

Best Times to Visit

🌧️
Right Now
Not ideal for outdoor activities today
🏖️ Swimming Beaches Tips:
  • Arrive early for best parking and beach spot selection
  • Check for lifeguard schedules and swim only in designated areas
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
  • Watch for beach flags indicating water conditions
Best Seasons:
☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov)🌸 Spring (Mar-May)

Location & Contact

698 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Bradenton Beach, Florida 34217

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Amenities

Camping nearby