Golf Carts on Anna Maria Island
Thinking about renting a golf cart for your Anna Maria Island vacation? You’re not alone—golf carts (specifically street-legal Low-Speed Vehicles or LSVs) are one of the most convenient and fun ways to explore Anna Maria Island’s seven miles of paradise. But before you book one, it's essential to understand where you can drive them, who can operate them, and whether it’s truly the best way to get around.
Here’s everything you need to know about golf carts on AMI in 2025.
Are Golf Carts Legal on Anna Maria Island?
Yes, golf carts are street legal on Anna Maria Island if they meet LSV (Low-Speed Vehicle) requirements. This means they must be:
Equipped with seat belts, headlights, taillights, turn signals, mirrors, and a windshield
Registered and insured
Allowed only on roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less
This includes all the roads on Anna Maria Island—Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, and the City of Anna Maria—so you can legally drive a golf cart throughout the island.
Note: Golf carts are not allowed on the beach or on sidewalks, and you cannot cross any bridges (e.g., Manatee Avenue or Cortez Bridge) in a golf cart.
Where Can You Drive a Golf Cart?
You can drive a street-legal golf cart on all roads on Anna Maria Island, provided they have a speed limit of 35 mph or lower. That includes:
Pine Avenue
Gulf Drive
Marina Drive
All residential side streets
Golf carts cannot leave the island and must stay within these city limits. Stick to marked roads, obey speed limits, and avoid pedestrian paths.
Who Can Drive or Rent a Golf Cart?
Each rental company has its own requirements, but most follow these general rules:
To Rent: The renter must be at least 25 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
To Drive: Most companies require drivers to be 21+, but Florida law allows licensed drivers 15 years and older with a learner’s permit, if accompanied by an adult.
Insurance: Many rental companies include insurance, but be sure to confirm coverage before you drive off.
Best Golf Cart Rental Companies on Anna Maria Island
Here are some popular and reputable companies that offer golf cart rentals:
Hodo’s Golf Cart Rentals
Street Legal 4 and 6 seaters.
Bluetooth Soundbar
Free drop off and pickup in the Anna Maria Island, Sarasota Beaches including Siesta Key.
Fun and More Rentals
4-, 6-, and 8-passenger golf carts
Free delivery and pickup
Phone: (941) 462-2719
Beach Bums AMI
Eco-friendly electric carts
Great customer service and locally owned
Located in Anna Maria
AMI Rentals
Large fleet with flexible rental times
Offers baby gear and bikes too
Sharky’s Golf Cart Rentals
Modern street-legal LSVs
Known for excellent maintenance and pricing
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Golf Cart on Anna Maria Island
Prices vary depending on the type of cart and rental duration. Here's a general idea:
Type
Daily Rate
Weekly Rate
4-Passenger Electric
$100–$120
$500–$600
6-Passenger Electric
$125–$150
$650–$750
8-Passenger Electric
$160–$180
$800–$950
Many companies offer discounts for multi-day rentals, and some even include free delivery and pickup.
Is It Worth Renting a Golf Cart on AMI?
Pros:
Easy parking around beach accesses and shops
Fun and open-air experience
Great for families with kids
Environmentally friendly options available (electric)
Cons:
Can’t leave the island or cross bridges
Not ideal during rainy weather
Limited range (especially for electric carts)
You still need to obey all traffic laws
If you're staying on the island and want a fun, flexible way to get around without needing a car daily, a golf cart rental is definitely worth it.
Alternatives to Golf Carts
If you decide a golf cart isn’t the best fit, Anna Maria Island has plenty of other transportation options:
Bikes
Many of the same Anna Maria Island Beach rental companies offer beach cruisers, e-bikes, and kids' bikes.
Ideal for the island’s flat terrain.
Free Island Trolley
Runs daily from 6 AM to 10 PM
Air-conditioned, free to ride, and stops every 2–4 blocks
Covers the entire island from Anna Maria City Pier to Coquina Beach
Walking
If you’re staying near the beach or in the heart of Anna Maria or Bradenton Beach, walking is one of the easiest ways to explore. Don’t forget the Heart Rock on Anna Maria Island.
Final Tips Before You Rent a Golf Cart on AMI
Reserve early during Anna Maria peak tourist season (spring break and summer).'/'
Review your rental agreement carefully
Ask about chargers for electric models and where to plug in.
Always buckle up—even in golf carts, seat belts are required.
Yes, golf carts are allowed on Anna Maria Island—as long as they’re street legal and you follow the rules. They’re a fun, efficient way to explore, especially if you’re staying for several days and want to skip the hassle of finding a car parking spot near the beach. Just be sure to choose a reputable rental company, drive safely, and enjoy the ride!