Visitors to Anna Maria Island have yet another must-see destination for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing — Neal Preserve in Manatee County, Florida. Located just east of the Manatee Avenue Bridge, this 120-acre ecological treasure offers stunning views of Sarasota Bay and a chance to experience some of the area’s most beautiful natural habitats.
Thanks to a generous donation from the Neal family, the preserve has been carefully restored over the past four years, blending local history and environmental preservation. Once home to Native Americans, Neal Preserve still features remnants of its rich past, making it a great spot for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic water views from the observation tower, stroll through salt marshes on elevated boardwalks, and explore mangrove forests along packed shell trails. The preserve offers free parking, free entry, and easy bike access via connecting trails from nearby Robinson Preserve, making it an ideal stop for anyone exploring the Anna Maria Island area.
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