While Anna Maria Island might be best known for its pristine beaches and miles of blue waters the Island offers a lot more than just a sunny day at the beach. With a free Island trolley service running every 20 minutes from 7am until 10:30pm (excluding holidays) it’s easy to explore the Island, and you are never too far from experiencing first hand why most people refer to Anna Maria Island as their own little slice of bliss! Find plenty of activities & entertainment for your Anna Maria getaway!
Shop Till You Drop:
If shopping is one of your favorite pastimes then the Island has plenty to offer. Whether you are looking for beach-themed décor, souvenirs or you follow the latest fashion trends, there is something for everyone among the shops and boutiques.
On Pine Avenue you can browse through upcycled fashions and wearable vintage at Really Relish or shop for sophisticated fashions at the Pink & Navy Boutique.
If you love fine jewelry you’ll find some stunning creations from the Island’s numerous jewelers including Mister Roberts, Two Sides of Nature and many more.
To view a listing of all of the shops on Anna Maria Island visit the Island’s Chamber of Commerce.
Ice Cream, Donuts, and Everything Sweet
Nothing tastes better after a fun day at the beach than a few scoops of ice cream and we challenge you on your next trip to give all of the incredible shops on the Island a taste.
Starting from Bradenton Beach you have two delicious parlors, Joe’s Eats and Island Cream. Both of these offer numerous ice cream flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. If you find yourself on Holmes Beach, treat yourself to some Holy Cow ice cream, homemade and creamy, just the way it should be. If you make your way towards the tip of the Island cool yourself off at either 2 Scoops, located right across The Anna Maria Island City Pier, or Dips, where you can choose from over 32 flavors!
Have a craving for something sweet and tasty but you want a change from ice cream? No worries, the Island has just the cure for that. Visit Donut Experiment, where you can choose from 4 different icings and over 14 toppings to make the donut just the way you like it. The Island is home to many fine bakeries, so be sure to stop by Ginny’s & Jane E’s to sample their tasty treats.
Fun in the Sun
So now you’ve done your shopping and tasted some of Anna Maria’s sweet delights, it’s time to burn off those calories. If you want an adrenaline rush then go for a parasailing cruise with AMI Adventure Rentals. You’ll get to float above the Gulf and take in the full scope of the Island’s breathtaking beauty.
No trip to Anna Maria Island would be complete without a tour around the Island’s coast and you can choose jet skis, kayaks or paddleboards at Wavesplash Watersports. You’ll get to tour the island and explore hidden nooks and inlets, and maybe see some of the aquatic wildlife up close.
If all that isn’t enough then why not rent a charter and test your deep-sea fishing skills against some of the Gulf’s fish with Cortez Deep Sea Fishing Charters. And for a truly unique and memorable experience go horseback riding, and horse surfing, with Beach Horses.
Don’t let Anna Maria Island’s size and laid back atmosphere fool you, there’s all kinds of adventures to be had on this idyllic island in the sun.
Find out more information about Anna Maria Island in the articles below:
Tee Off Around Anna Maria Island At These 5 Great Golf Courses
Dining on Anna Maria Island.. With a View!
Rise & Shine!! Breakfast on Anna Maria Island
