Anna Maria Island, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

For generations, families have loved Anna Maria Island, Florida, for its soft white sand and natural beauty. It's a hidden gem compared to other places in the Sunshine State. Thanks to fans who want to keep its historic charm, the island has seen a big improvement.

After fixing up Pine Avenue, the main street, the island's beach homes looked new again. Local businesses now focus on being green, caring for wildlife, and serving fresh, local food. In 2023, Anna Maria Island made history by joining the Leave No Trace program.

Visitors enjoy stunning sunsets and a unique, no-high-rises coastline. Getting around is easy with golf carts or beach cruisers. And, getting to the island is simpler with more flights into Sarasota-Bradenton International.

Key Takeaways

• Anna Maria Island offers 242 days of sunshine per year, making it an attractive destination for sun-seekers.
• The island's three main towns - Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach - allow visitors to explore the island conveniently.
• The historic fishing village of Cortez is a must-visit for its excellent seafood options and sustainable commercial fisheries.
• Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport has expanded, making it easier to access Anna Maria Island.
• Anna Maria Island has become the first Florida destination to partner with the national Leave No Trace organization, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.

Anna Maria Island: A Charming Barrier Island Escape

Anna Maria Island is a 7-mile-long barrier island off Florida's Gulf Coast. It has kept its Old Florida allure and historic charm. The island's no-high-rises rule and the use of golf carts and beach cruisers make it feel laid-back. This creates a unique Anna Maria Island charm.

Discover the Allure of Old Florida

Walking down the island's main streets, you'll see colorful and old-style beach homes. This shows the island's effort in historic island preservation. Local owners care deeply for sustainability and the island's beauty, adding to the Old Florida allure.

Preserving the Island's Historic Charm

In 2023, Anna Maria Island became the first in Florida to work with the Leave No Trace organization. This move shows the community's commitment to keeping the island's history and nature safe. It highlights the island's strong effort to keep its historic charm and Anna Maria Island charm for the future.

"Anna Maria Island is a true gem, where the Old Florida allure meets modern sustainability efforts to preserve its historic charm for all to enjoy."

Accommodation Options on Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island in Florida has many places to stay, from cozy cottages to big homes. Paradise Blu is a top Airbnb choice, with amazing bay and ocean views and big bedrooms. It's a three-story home with king-sized beds.

For a resort feel, check out Waterline Marina Resort. It has two-bedroom suites with home comforts and resort perks like a pool and beach access. Joie Inn is another great spot, a boutique hotel with a fresh look, ideal for a close-up island getaway.

Anna Maria Island offers a mix of vacation rentals and boutique resorts. Whether you want a fancy stay or a cozy cottage, you'll find the perfect spot here.

Vacation Rentals and Boutique Resorts

Anna Maria Island is full of vacation rentals and boutique resorts. These places give guests a real taste of the island's easy-going and historic vibe.

These vacation rentals and boutique resorts focus on keeping the island's historic feel. They let visitors really feel what Anna Maria Island is all about. Whether you want luxury or something more affordable, there's a place for you here.

Exploring Anna Maria Island's Pristine Beaches

Anna Maria Island is famous for its untouched, soft white sand beaches by the Gulf of Mexico's blue waters. It has seven miles of stunning coastline. This barrier island is a true natural wonder for those looking for a peaceful beach getaway.

The island's main beaches, like Manatee Beach, Cortez Beach, and Coquina Beach, have free parking, lifeguards, and places for picnics and renting beach gear. Bean Point at the north end is a favorite spot. Here, you can walk to the end of the island and see the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and Egmont Key.

Manatee Public Beach is the busiest beach on Anna Maria Island. It's easy to get to from 29th, 41st, or 42nd Street. This beach has restrooms, showers, and lifeguards during busy times. It's great for families.

Cortez Beach is quieter and perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It has some free parking. You can also go kayaking, paddleboarding, kitesurfing, and snorkeling here.

Coquina Beach at the island's south end has a playground, lifeguards, and lots of room for fun activities like shelling and frisbee. Its beautiful nature and calm make it perfect for families.

Anna Maria Island's beaches offer both lively and peaceful spots. With their soft white sand, clear waters, and many shorebirds, these beaches are a true wonder. They will leave you enchanted and eager to come back.

Outdoor Adventures on Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is more than just beautiful beaches. It's a place full of outdoor adventures waiting for you. A top activity is going on a guided dolphin tour. With companies like Paradise Boat Tours and AMI Dolphin Tours, you can see dolphins in their home in Sarasota Bay.

For those who like to explore on their own, kayaking in Cortez Cove is a great choice. As you move through the calm waters, you'll see white pelicans, herons, and frigate birds flying above. The Paddle Manatee guide helps you find the best kayak trails, making your adventure even better.

Choosing between a dolphin tour or a kayaking trip, Anna Maria Island's outdoor activities will give you memories to last a lifetime. Dive into the island's beauty and get close to the local wildlife.

Anna Maria Island's Culinary Delights

Anna Maria Island is a paradise for food lovers. It has many dining spots that highlight the island's coastal vibe and fresh, local ingredients. Places like The Waterfront Restaurant, The Sandbar, and The Ugly Grouper are famous for their fresh seafood. You can enjoy dishes made with grouper, shrimp, and scallops right from the Gulf.

The island also boasts a strong farm-to-table and gulf-to-table movement. Local chefs use fresh, local ingredients to make tasty dishes. You can try classic Florida dishes and unique local specialties like The Ugly Grouper's crisped-cheese shell tacos.

Seafood Specialties and Local Favorites

• The Waterfront Restaurant: Known for its fresh seafood and stunning waterfront views.
• The Sandbar: Offering a casual, beachfront ambiance and a menu focused on Gulf-caught fare.
• The Ugly Grouper: Serving up unique twists on local specialties, such as their crisped-cheese shell tacos.
• Beach Bistro: A fine dining destination celebrating the best of Anna Maria Island's local cuisine.
• Blue Marlin: Specializing in seafood dishes and showcasing the island's farm-to-table movement.

Looking for fresh seafood, classic Florida dishes, or something new? Anna Maria Island has it all. Enjoy the island's flavors and dive into the vibrant dining scene.

Historic Pine Avenue and Bridge Street

When you visit Anna Maria Island, you'll find the island's historic charm on Pine Avenue and Bridge Street. These streets show off the island's history and offer great shopping and dining.

Pine Avenue is the island's main street. It's filled with colorful, old-style beach homes and shops, restaurants, and galleries. The Historic Green Village on Pine Avenue is all about being green. It has buildings that use no energy and businesses that care for the environment.

Not far away, Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach is another historic spot. It's full of bars, restaurants, and shops. Everything is set against the beautiful bay and a free fishing pier.

"Pine Avenue and Bridge Street are the perfect places to soak up the historic charm and authentic island vibe of Anna Maria Island."

Walking along these streets takes you back in time. The island's history and today's beauty mix perfectly. You can shop, eat local food, or just enjoy the views. Pine Avenue and Bridge Street make your visit to Anna Maria Island unforgettable.

Sunset Viewing Spots on Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is a great place to see the sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. The island has a rule against high-rise buildings, so you get clear views of the sky. You can watch the sky turn purple and orange as the sun goes down.

For the best sunset view, go to the Sandbar Restaurant. It has a deck right on the sand. Another great spot is Bean Point Beach at the island's north. It's quiet and perfect for enjoying the sunset.

You can also see the sunset from the Anna Maria City Pier and the Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach. These places let you take in the beauty of the island's sunsets fully.

After the sun sets, the sky changes colors for about 15-45 minutes. This is a great time for photos. It's also a good time to just enjoy the colors in the sky.

Anna Maria Island has many great places to watch the sunset. It's perfect for nature lovers and anyone looking for peace. The island is a top spot for seeing the sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.

"Watching the sunset on Anna Maria Island is a truly magical experience. The vibrant colors and tranquil atmosphere create a sense of peace and wonder that stays with you long after the sun dips below the horizon."

Anna Maria Island, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Anna Maria Island in Florida is a paradise for visitors. It has beautiful beaches, outdoor fun, historic spots, and tasty local food. Here are some top activities to enjoy on this lovely island:

Explore the Island's Beaches

Anna Maria Island has seven amazing beaches, each with its own vibe. The Coquina Baywalk is a favorite spot for families. It's a short trail that's fun for everyone. You can also fish and enjoy the views from the island's three piers.

Discover Wildlife and Outdoor Adventures

Take a dolphin tour, like the Passage Key Dolphin Tours, to see manatees, eagles, ospreys, and dolphins in the wild. You can also go kayaking or enjoy a sunset tour to see the island's beauty up close.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Anna Maria Island is famous for its fresh seafood and local dishes. Places like the Sandbar Seafood and Spirits and the Small Town Creamery are must-visits. They offer delicious food that you won't forget.

Explore the Island's History

The Island Historical Museum at the island's north end has artifacts from the 1920s. It shows the island's rich history. Walking through Pine Avenue and Bridge Street lets you see the historic charm up close.

Enjoy Panoramic Views

The Leffis Key Preserve has a 26-foot hill that offers stunning views of the bay and Gulf of Mexico. Parasailing gives you a bird's-eye view of the island's beauty.

Anna Maria Island has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to outdoor fun and history. Whether you want a relaxing day at the beach or an adventure, this Florida island will leave a lasting impression.

"Anna Maria Island is a hidden gem, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The island's natural beauty, rich history, and laid-back charm make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly memorable Florida getaway."

Nightlife and Live Music on Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is known for its laid-back vibe, but it also has a lively nightlife. The Bridge Street district in Bradenton Beach is the heart of the action. It has bars, restaurants, and outdoor venues with live music every day.

Some top places for live music and fun on Anna Maria Island are:

• Blue Marlin Seafood, famous for fresh seafood and live music that sets a relaxed mood.
• Daiquiri Deck, a fun bar with a great vibe and beautiful waterfront views.
• Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the pier, offering live shows and a view of the Gulf.

Other great spots include Freckled Fin, Island Time, and The Ugly Grouper. They have everything from acoustic sets to karaoke and trivia nights. You can enjoy the island's laid-back nightlife and the stunning Gulf views.

Lively Bars and Outdoor Venues

The nightlife on Anna Maria Island is all about lively bars and outdoor spots. They play a wide range of music, from rock to hip-hop. Whether you want to dance or just enjoy the vibe, you'll find the perfect spot on the island.

Island Time Bar & Grill is a top choice for its fun atmosphere and great entertainment. It has live music all night. Freckled Fin is another favorite, known for its live music and karaoke, offering a lively spot with a great music lineup.

The Bridge Tender Inn on Bridge Street also has a variety of music, from country to jazz. It's a key spot for anyone wanting to experience Anna Maria Island's nightlife and live music.

Exploring the Fishing Village of Cortez

Just a short drive from Anna Maria Island is the historic fishing village of Cortez. It's a place that takes you back in time. The village has been a key spot for fishing for over a century. You can still see the fishing boats, the working waterfront, and the seafood restaurants that show its long history.

The Star Fish Market and Restaurant is a highlight in Cortez. They get fresh seafood twice a day and cook it simply to let the flavors shine. Seafood lovers will enjoy the real tastes of the local seafood restaurants. They serve dishes made from the sea's best offerings.

The Florida Maritime Museum is another big draw. It tells the story of the area's maritime past. You can see exhibits on fishing, shipbuilding, and how the sea has shaped the lives of the people of Cortez over the years.

For those who love nature, Cortez Cove is perfect for kayaking and seeing wildlife. It's a peaceful place away from the busy world. The fishing village vibe and seeing how a working waterfront operates make Cortez a top spot for anyone wanting to experience Anna Maria Island's true charm.

"Exploring Cortez provides a glimpse into Old Florida's fishing culture and a perfect complement to the island's beach-centric activities."

Best Time to Visit Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island is a sunny spot on Florida's Gulf Coast, with 242 sunny days a year. The best time to visit depends on what you like and the weather you want.

Summer, from June to August, is hot and humid, with temperatures in the 90s Fahrenheit. The beaches are full, and there are afternoon storms.

Winter, from December to February, is the busiest time because of school breaks and snowbirds. It's cooler, with temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit, and less humid. This is great for outdoor fun.

Many think the spring months, March, April, and May, are the best time to visit Anna Maria Island. The weather is nice, with temperatures from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. It's also less humid. If you want to see manatees, visit the Apollo Beach Manatee Viewing Center from November 1 to April 15.

Anna Maria Island is great all year, thanks to its mild weather and lots of sunny days. It's a top vacation destination any time of the year.

Getting to Anna Maria Island

Getting to Anna Maria Island is now easier with Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport's growth and new flight routes. You can fly into Sarasota, a 30-minute drive away, or Tampa International Airport, about an hour away.

Once you're on the island, you have many ways to get around. The free trolley runs from 6 am to 10:30 pm, making it easy to travel. For late nights, the Monkey Bus is a great option. Or, you can rent golf carts or bicycles to explore at your pace.

Many people prefer not to bring cars due to limited parking, especially on weekends. This lets you enjoy the island's laid-back vibe more fully.

"Exploring Anna Maria Island without a car is the best way to truly experience its quaint and walkable character."

Choosing the free trolley, the Monkey Bus, or biking gets you around Anna Maria Island easily and fun.

Conclusion

Anna Maria Island is a true gem on Florida's Gulf Coast. It offers a mix of natural beauty, historic charm, and a relaxed island feel. The island has beautiful white sand beaches, outdoor adventures, a lively food scene, and a fun nightlife. It's perfect for anyone looking for a beach vacation, a family trip, or a dive into Old Florida.

The island is easy to get to and has many places to stay. It's full of things to see and do. This makes Anna Maria Island one of the top spots in Florida. It's great for retirees who want a peaceful life. The island is small, has no tall buildings, and is quiet.

It's close to Sarasota, which means good healthcare and lots of cultural and fun activities. You'll always have something to do.

When planning your next vacation or retirement spot, think about Anna Maria Island. It has stunning beaches, outdoor fun, historic charm, and a lively community. This island on the Gulf of Mexico will capture your heart and leave a lasting memory. Experience the Old Florida vibe and see why Anna Maria Island is a hidden treasure on Florida's west coast.