Florida is full of great attractions for tourists, from the luxury of the Keys to the excitement of big cities like Orlando and Panama City. However, if you’re looking for a quaint vacation destination with fun activities for the whole family, check out the haven of Anna Maria Island.
The seven-mile-long island holds everything you could want on your Florida getaway, from beautiful nature to delicious seafood to rich history and everything in between. Best of all, our Anna Maria Island rental homes are centrally located to put you in the center of it all! Here are our tips if it’s your first time visiting Anna Maria Island.
Outdoor Activities
There are so many activities on Anna Maria Island, it’s hard to believe so much can fit in just seven miles! Anywhere you look, you’ll have a stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico and white sand beaches to match. Manatee Public Beach is one of the best spots to bring the family, or you can head to Bean Point Beach if you’re looking for a bit more privacy. Coquina Beach is a bit less crowded than Manatee Public Beach but still offers many of the same conveniences. Finally, Bayfront Park combines the stunning waters with a thriving picnic spot, perfect for spending the whole afternoon.
If you’re really looking to get the most out of the water, there are plenty of ways to do so. You can book an eco-kayak tour to take to the water with a helpful guide. You can also rent water equipment like jet skis, paddleboards, WaveRunners, and more. You can even get a bird’s-eye view of the island by going parasailing!
When you’re done with the beach but still want to take advantage of nature, visit Robinson Preserve. You’ll find more than 600 acres of coastal protected habitats and can spot wildlife like manatees, birds, fish, and even dolphins! You can also head to the Coquina Baywalk right across from Coquina Beach to watch the crabs, birds, stingrays, and more.
Indoor activities
If you get hit by an afternoon shower, want to escape the heat, or simply desire an indoor attraction, you can find plenty to do. Anna Maria Island has several incredible museums, including the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum. You can learn everything you want to know about the history of the island thanks to the friendly staff. You can also head on to the mainland to check out the South Florida Museum, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, and the Florida Maritime Museum.
One of the most popular indoor activities on the island is shopping! You can find plenty of cute boutiques full of souvenirs and home decor for you to remember your travels by. Pink and Navy Boutique has all the latest trends, and AMI Outfitters Coastal Gear and Apparel can help you find any beachwear you might need. Visit Tide and Moon Jewelry to pick out a new accessory, or head into The Island Cabana to find the perfect souvenir.
Looking to add a bit of culture to your vacation? Check out a local show or art exhibit. The Island Players Community Theater is always showing interesting plays that are sure to please the whole family, or you can head to Regional Oakmont 8 to catch the latest blockbuster hit. If you’re looking for an art gallery, Island Gallery West and the Anna Maria Island Art League are both great options. You’ll get to talk with local artisans and discover what about Florida inspires them.
Where to Eat
Anna Maria Island has cuisine for every palate, from local seafood to globally inspired dishes. Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe is the perfect stop at any time of day. Come enjoy a casual breakfast or stop in on Friday for the all-you-can-eat fish fry! They also offer live entertainment nightly for a family-friendly experience with a little something extra. Rod and Reel Pier is another popular stop that offers a stunning view and classic seafood dishes the whole family will enjoy.
For something a bit more elevated, Blue Marlin Seafood brings the welcoming atmosphere of a 90-year-old nautical chic cottage and the inspired coastal dishes like lobster grilled cheese and Cortez chowder. Another great stop for a date night is the Beach Bistro, where you can either dine in the art-adorned interior or on the patio for dinner with a view.
Where to Drink
Sometimes you need a little pick-me-up, and for some of the best coffee on the island, you have to visit Island Coffee Haus. Grab your coffee and a fresh-baked pastry, then choose to sit and chat with your loved ones or look through the collection of jewelry, glassware, artwork, and more. You can also head into Ginny’s & Jane E’s Cafe & gift store for your morning cup of joe while surrounded by the most unique antiques on the island.
If you want a drink with a bit more of a kick, The Doctor’s Office is where you want to be. This is one of the best places to get a tasty beverage on the island, and the atmosphere is one-of-a-kind. There’s also D Coy Ducks Bar & Grille, where you can listen to live music or try your hand at a game of poker while you spend time with your friends. Island Time Bar and Grill is another great option, where you can get a custom cocktail and watch the waves roll in.
Sweet Treats
Everyone’s got a sweet tooth now and then, and you can easily satisfy yours just down the road from our rentals on Anna Maria Island. If you’re looking for a cold treat in particular, visit the Anna Maria Island Creamery and Bakery. You can sample authentic gelato in both traditional and unique flavors, and it’s all handmade using the freshest fruit and best local dairy. Two Scoops is another popular option that features 32 homemade flavors for you to sample. They also have shakes, sundaes, chili dogs, and more to satisfy your whole family. Holy Cow, Small Town Creamery, and Dips Ice Cream are just a few more excellent options.
If you want something sweet but don’t feel like ice cream, visit Hometown Desserts. Their bakery features everything from cake and cupcakes to muffins and doughnuts, made fresh daily to give you the best buy possible. Be sure to try The Donut Experiment while you’re in town also, where you can pick a simple plain glazed donut or go for a crazy variety like key lime or sriracha! Cupcake Delights specializes in, you guessed it, cupcakes! The staff is always excellent to their customers and can help you find your next favorite dessert.
Where to Stay
After exploring all the attractions Anna Maria Island has to offer, you need a place to crash! Luckily, our Anna Maria Island cottage rentals offer everything you need to make the perfect home away from home. We have rental options for any size group, so whether you’re traveling with your sweetheart or the whole family, there’s plenty of room for everyone. You’ll find amenities like high-speed internet, stunning views, full kitchens, and so much more. These are only a handful of the best attractions on Anna Maria Island, so you’ll have to come to AMI and discover the rest for yourself! Contact us today to start planning your getaway.
