How Far is Anna Maria Island from Orlando?

One of Florida’s most well-kept secrets is Anna Maria Island, a tropical paradise combining big city excitement with small-town comfort. While the advantages of planning an Anna Maria vacation are endless, one of the top factors is its convenient location to other major Florida cities. You can take tons of fun day trips on your getaway, including the ever-popular Orlando.

Driving from Orlando

Where is Anna Maria Island? Anna Maria is located on Florida’s southwest coast, surrounded by Tampa Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Intracoastal Waterway. This seven-mile stretch of land is the ideal spot for a dream vacation with your sweetheart or with the whole family, complete with breathtaking beaches and sightseeing you just can’t miss.

Anna Maria Island is a two-hour drive from Orlando, the perfect distance for a day trip. Getting to Orlando is less complicated than you may think. When on the island, make your way toward US-41, where you’ll eventually get onto I-75 to take you into the city. It’s an easy and quick trip that makes for the ideal getaway to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and more!

Flying from Orlando

If you’re flying into the area, your best airport choice is going to be Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. You will only be half an hour away from Anna Maria Island, making it simple for you to get settled in. Sarasota Airport gives you easy access to all the best places to stay on Anna Maria Island, and the drive into town lets you see just how quaint and relaxing the area is as you pass cottages, local shops, and more.

The airport is about two hours from Orlando, so you could spend part of your time in the city without much trouble getting to and from the airport. Sarasota Airport is a convenient middle ground that is often cheaper and quicker to fly into than some other Florida locations. Other nearby airports include Tampa International Airport (about one hour away) and Orlando International Airport (about 2.5 hours away).

Why Visit Anna Maria Island?

Besides its incredible location, there are countless more reasons to stay on Anna Maria Island. Don’t let the island’s small size fool you; there’s something here for everyone! Spend the day lounging on Anna Maria Beach or collecting shells at Bean Point. Take the kids to explore Bayfront Park, or let out your inner history buff at the Anna Maria City Jail and Anna Maria Historical Society. Explore the nature at Coquina Baywalk, or shop ‘till you drop at Historic Bridge Street. The possibilities are endless!

Another major selling point of Anna Maria Island is the incredible food. From fresh seafood to delicious desserts, you can find something for any meal to suit any palate. The Sandbar and The Waterfront are staples in the area, while Sign of the Mermaid is a bit of a hidden gem. Try Island Coffee Haus for a fresh cup of joe, or satisfy your sweet tooth at The Donut Experiment. Finally, head to Rod & Reel Pier or Harry’s Grill and Bistro for a casual and unforgettable dining experience. You can choose something new every night, and you’ll be satisfied every time!

Anna Maria Island is the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, and once you visit, you’ll know why our visitors return again and again! Ready to experience the island for yourself? Contact us today to learn more about our Anna Maria beachfront rentals. We take pride in being the industry leader for Anna Maria vacation homes, and we love helping our customers craft the getaway of their dreams. We can’t wait to have you!

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