Anna Maria Island Top 10 Activities

Anna Maria Island – While visiting the island the most obvious choice for fun and relaxation is the beach. With over seven miles of powder sand beaches, crisp blue water, endless sunshine and spectacular shelling, the beach will always be the first choice activity. Anna Maria Island has so much more to offer than just the amazing beaches, so Island Real Estate has compiled a list of our top ten activities and things to do during your stay.

Top Ten Activities!

1. Rainy Day Activities on Anna Maria Island

If you’ve ever visited Florida, especially in the summer months, you know rain is to be expected. With this in mind there are plenty of things to do to keep you entertained while waiting for clearer skies.

Anna Maria Island storm — A stormy day on Anna Maria Island is still gorgeous!

2. Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum

The Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum is a must for visitor to the island. Tour the exhibits in the recently updated Museum building, learn about the old Belle Haven Cottage originally located on the pier, and see the old city jail house. The museum is fun for all ages, and gives visitors a taste of Anna Maria Island from days past. The Museum is located at 402 Pine Avenue.

3. Catch a show with the Island Players

The Island Players Theater offers several different shows each season running from October to May. Tickets are $20 each or purchase a season ticket for $92.50 at the box office or by phone. The Island Players Theater is located at the corner of Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue. A fun place to catch a play, the Players Theater is a gorgeous and historical landmark of Anna Maria.

4. Coquina Bay Walk at Leffis Key

Anna Maria Island may only be seven miles long and one mile wide, but it does offer fabulous nature viewing opportunities. One of the areas most unique nature features can be found on the south end of Anna Maria Island at gorgeous Leffis Key. Open from sunrise to sundown, Leffis Key offers amazing Mangrove tunnel lined boardwalk trails, salt marsh lagoons and the Island’s best bird watching.

Leffis key at Coquina Baywalk — Leffis Key overlooking Sarasota Bay.

5. Shopping on Anna Maria Island

There are tons of great places to shop for unique items on Anna Maria Island. Whether you are looking for island themed gifts and souvenirs, local art or just gorgeous little things, you’ll be sure to find it in one of the great shops on the island.

6. Family Fun at Anna Maria Island Parks

Across Anna Maria Island there are several great parks with kid friendly activities. Find play ground equipment, a skatepark, concessions, and all the outdoor fun your kids could hope for. If you are looking to head off island for nature viewing check out our list of parks and preserves in Manatee county.

7. Equipment Rentals

With so many equipment rental shops on Anna Maria Island there are lots of options for entertaining activities. Rent just about any type of equipment you need on the island including kayak/canoes, bikes, jet skis, beach accessories, golf carts, fly boarding, baby rentals and much more! Check out the Anna Maria Island Bicycle Guide for route suggestions and more.

8. Art Galleries

Anna Maria Island has a fabulous art scene with many local creatives offering their wares in galleries across the island. While visiting Anna Maria Island be sure to stop in one of the galleries listed, and take a piece of paradise home with you. If you visit the Island in November, be sure to visit annual event ArtsHop!

9. Anna Maria Island Dining

Dining on Anna Maria Island is always an entertaining activity. Here’s an extensive list of everything you need to know about dining island style!

10. Sunset

Sunset is one of the most magical times on Anna Maria Island. Always the best way to end the day or get the evening started, sunset is the time of day to reflect on the incredible beauty of the Anna Maria Island experience. You can’t leave the island without catching at least one sunset!

After perusing our list of Anna Maria Island activities we are sure you’ll have to come back a second time to experience everything the island has to offer! Enjoy your time in paradise, and don’t forget to apply your sunscreen liberally!

Anna Maria Island Vacation Rentals and Accommodations

When planning a trip or an extended stay to Anna Maria Island, Island Real Estate has the largest inventory of vacation rental homes to choose from with almost 300 properties. You’ll find the perfect accommodation along with great customer service when you use Island Real Estate!

Holmes Beach vacation rental — Casa Sierra 205 B is a fun and relaxing Anna Maria Island vacation rental located in Holmes Beach. In the central portion of the island, Casa Sierra is located just two blocks from the beach, and is a great spot to enjoy island activities! Click on the image above to reserve your stay at Casa Sierra 205 B today!

Anna Maria Elementary International Peace Day 2016

In observation of International Peace Day, Anna Maria Elementary hosted a celebration of Peace for all ages. Parents, students, teachers and locals all came together for a special day.

What is International Peace Day?

September 21st is The International Day of Peace. The United Nations established this special day in 1989, and is observed globally. The UN declared the day as “commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples”. This day contributes to a global culture of peace, and gives the world an opportunity to set aside differences, and practice kindness and understanding.

Anna Maria Elementary Peace Celebration

The school celebrated peace on September 23. It was truly a special day bringing together all ages in a commitment to peace. The Manatee County Rotary Club and Manatee High School Drum line also joined the elementary students.

Starting the day off, Principal Jackie Featherstone welcomed the crowd at this well attended event. School counselor Susan Tabicman organized the day in addition to the help of sponsorship from the Rotary Club. Next, the High School drum line and Elementary students marched in a parade across the campus. The High School students kept beat with a great cadence while the younger children held flags from around the world.

Students raised the U.S. flag and the crowd observed the National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance.

One student from each grade two through five spoke in front of the crowd. These students made powerful statements about the meaning of peace. Well spoken, these students truly moved the crowd and made proud parents. Each grade level sang a song about peace with the help of Teacher Wooten and Teacher Ruise. It was adorable to say the least.

Pictures from Peace Day

International Peace Day — The Anna Maria Elementary Peace Day Celebration was well attended!

Finally, the event closed with a song sung all together. The entire group stood and held up peace signs making for the perfect ending to the celebration.

Students held flags from around the world in the Peace Day Parade.

High School students wowed with their percussion skills, and students were proud to represents countries from around the world.

Each grade level sang a song about peace.

The Kindergarten class had groovy peace hats!

Students sing a song "Hi, Hello" teaching us how to say hello in several languages. They waved hi at parents. — Students sing a song “Hi, Hello” teaching us how to say hello in several languages. They waved hi at parents.

Zero man got the crowd happy. Zero man represents togetherness. A zero alone can do nothing, but add something to it and it becomes valuable.

Check out our Instagram for a short video from the day too!

Top Tikitastic Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals

What could be more fun than spending a vacation at Anna Maria Island beach rentals with fantastic Tiki huts? Tiki huts are a fun retro style perfect for a tropical destination like the island.

Tiki Culture in the United States

This theme stems from Americans use of Polynesian culture starting in the 1930’s. While not considered a fine art form by Polynesian styles, the theme loosely stems from cultural mythology and art. However, Americans now associate Hawaiian and Tropical themes with the Tiki style. There has been a resurgence of the style that has directly coincided with the trendy craft cocktail movement.

Tiki Drinks

Fruity tropical drinks are a must for any Tiki party. Typically they include different fruit juices, and are rum based. These drinks are usually tasty, very alcoholic and also use multiple rums or liquors. Serve them in funky totem head shaped mugs for a retro look, or use any pretty tall glass. Little umbrellas, fruit, spices, and herbs all make nice garnishes. Check out great recipes here. Also enjoy kid friendly versions of these drinks – just omit the alcohol. The combinations of fruit juices are fantastic on their own, just add a garnish and enjoy!

Below is a list of our top tikitastic Anna Maria Island beach rentals! These homes offer fun huts and bars perfect for entertaining in tropical island style!

Top Tikitastic Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals

Pelican Landing offers a Tiki by the heated pool! This rental sleeps 8 with 4 bedrooms. Relax and enjoy a tropical island experience!

Casa Calienta has a fully equipped Tiki bar with grill, sink and mini fridge. Additionally this hut is in the screened lanai with the heated pool! Relax with a drink and a swim too! Sleep 6 with 2 bedrooms.

Anna Maria Beach Rentals — Casa Calienta 217 Pine Avenue in Anna Maria.

Starfish also has a backyard Tiki hut, and a swim up Tiki umbrella in the heated pool. This hut is a nice spot no matter the weather. Sleep 6 in this rental with 3 bedrooms.

Anna Maria Island vacation rentals Holmes Beach — Starfish 6802 Marina Drive.

A Sassy Seahorse has a Tiki area in the backyard in addition to heated pool and spa! A shady spot for cool drinks on a hot day. Sleep 6 in this 2 bedroom rental.

Beach rental anna maria island Florida — A Sassy Seahorse 264 Gladiolus in Anna Maria.

Summer Breeze offers a fun covered Tiki bar too! Here you’ll find a swinging chair, Foosball table and flat screen T.V. Sleep 10 at this 4 bedroom rental.

Anna Maria Beach rental — Summer Breeze 313 61st Street in Holmes Beach.

Island Time offers a large pool side Tiki Umbrella. The perfect spot for watching the day drift by with a cold drink. Sleep 8 in this 3 bedroom with heated pool.

Coral Reef is an Anna Maria Island beach rental with a great Tiki and laid back feel. Sleeps 10 with 5 bedrooms.

Mango Breeze has a Tiki just a short walk to Gulf beaches! Relax by the heated pool with 8 in this 4 bedroom rental!

Anna Maria Island Tiki Restaurants

While visiting Anna Maria Island beach rentals you’ll also find great local Tiki style restaurants too! On Bridge Street you’ll find The Bridge Tender Inn and Dock Side Bar. Here you’ll enjoy views of Sarasota Bay in addition to great food and drinks. Also in Bradenton Beach, there is Gulf Drive Cafe and Tiki bar. This restaurant offers direct gulf views. Finally, In Holmes Beach you will find an outdoor Tiki atmosphere at The Ugly Grouper.

Anna Maria Island Fall Tourist Guide

The Anna Maria Island fall tourist guide is a great resources for visitors and locals alike! After a hot summer, fall welcomes cooler weather and fun activities! Along with these great activities, also check out suggested Fall family beach rentals.

Anna Maria Island Fall Tourist Guide

Here are our top eight things to do, and know during Fall on Anna Maria Island. Furthermore, find out why this is a fantastic time of year to plan an Anna Maria Island beach vacation!

Morning Beach Walk

Fall is an amazing time for a quiet walk on the beach with the sunrise. This is also a great time to catch up on some beach combing. Early morning temperatures are beautiful in Autumn. However, you will find that fall doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t be hot by mid day. For this reason, it’s nice to get up early while there is a crisp morning breeze off the gulf. Grab a cup of coffee, slip on your flip flops, and enjoy the peace of the beach at day break!

Beach Markets

Mid Fall, usually in November, is when all the beach markets begin their season. With the produce growing season underway, and weather that’s a tad less hot, markets are a great fall attraction. The Coquina Beach Market and Bridge Street Market are the two most popular on Anna Maria Island. However, here is a list of local markets to visit off island as well.

Wildlife Viewing, fall migration and local parks

As early as late summer you will notice an increase in local wildlife. For the expert wildlife viewers, it’s no secret that fall is the height of migration in Florida. This is when both the human and feathered snow birds make their early descent to Anna Maria Island.

Fall is an amazing time of year to get out to our local parks and preserves. Again, the weather is starting to cool, so enjoying the outdoors is more bearable than the summer months. During your visit check this list of parks and preserves on or around the island. These great locations give you the opportunity to get up close with Florida wildlife!

Go Swimming!

That’s right, you can still go for a swim in the Autumn months! Gulf of Mexico temperatures hang around 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit between September and December. This is not to say we don’t occasionally get below the 70’s, but these water temperatures are still swimable. Especially if you are visiting from the north, you will find Gulf temperatures very nice. On the other hand, locals tend to stop swimming a bit earlier. Really personal preference plays a big part in Fall island swimming.

Stone Crabs and Fishing

Stone Crab season starts mid October for the Florida gulf coast. While one of the countries oldest fishing villages lies just inland from Anna Maria Island; this is an anticipated time of year. Cortez fishing village is a great place to find fresh off the boat seafood. You’ll find Stone Crab so fresh it goes from the boat, to the boiling pot to your mouth! Going on in early November, check out the Cortez Stone Crab Festival too!

Anytime of year is great for Florida fishing, and Fall isn’t too bad either! Florida boasts the title “Fishing Capital of the World” because of great year round weather and angling. Fishing charters are just as popular in the fall as any time of year on the island!

Fall Festivals

This is the time of year when festival season starts for Islanders. There are several annual events that happen as the weather starts to change. You’ll find the Fall Festival, The Trail O Treats, Arts Hop and Bay Fest all going on throughout Autumn.

Find Fall colors with a sunset

While the trees and leaves may not turn to the striking hues of ocher, umber and rust orange, the sunsets surly do! Experience the turning of the season with one of the sunsets the Florida west coast is know for. Gather your family and friends to enjoy the peace of a sunset. This is one of the best times of day for beach photography too!

Anna Maria Island Fall Tourist Guide Beach Rentals

Autumn is a lovely time of year to gather the family at a beach rental! What Anna Maria Island Fall tourist guide would be complete without suggested accommodations? Island Real Estate has the island’s largest selection of homes to choose from, so plan your vacation today!

Anna Maria Island beach rentals

Casa Sierra 205 B is an excellent beach rental just a short walk from the gulf. This condo style home sleeps up to 6 guests with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Fall family beach trips were never so relaxed!

A Mermaid Crossing is a lovely family gathering place for up to 6 guests with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. This spacious home offers a heated pool and decor with a designer look. Less than a block to the beach!

Beach rental Anna Maria Island — A Mermaid Crossing 120 50th Street in Holmes Beach. 3 Bedroom.

Beachy Blue is just down the street from gulf beaches, and offers lovely accommodations. Enjoy the heated pool and spa with great coastal decor! Sleep up to 8 guests with 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms.

My Sisters Beach House sleeps up to 10 guests with 5 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. This fun house offers a gorgeous heated pool and spa along with canal views and a short walk to Tampa Bay beaches! You’re family will love the game room and outdoor balconies too!

Anna Maria vacation beach rentals — My Sisters Beach House 520 Bay view Place in Anna Maria. 5 Bedroom.

Waterfront Retreat is a unique canal front home made for entertaining large groups! This 6 bedroom house offers accommodations for 14 guests with 3 full bath and 2 half baths. Enjoy the heated pool, canal views and fantastic bar area!

National Guacamole Day Anna Maria Island

September 16th 2016 is National Guacamole Day. Everyone loves guacamole and Anna Maria Island is no exception.

National Guacamole Day

Guacamole is the perfect blend of creamy and tangy. Sometimes it has tomatoes, and sometimes it has a hint of spice. It’s great on tacos, chips, toast and serves as an amazing topping on just about anything. Some even use it in Ice Cream too!

Guacamole Facts

Guacamole dates back to the 1500’s when Aztecs made it.
“Guac” is a common short name for guacamole.
Use Florida, California or Hass avocados to make a good guacamole.
Different types of Avocados have a different flavor and texture.
Restaurants always charge for extra “Guac”.
Everyone loves guacamole because it’s amazing!

Places to Celebrate National Guacamole Day on Anna Maria Island

There are several restaurants on Anna Maria Island that serve guacamole. Below we have three suggestions for enjoying a heaping serving of the tasty green stuff.

Poppo’s Taqueria is a local small restaurant chain. The first store also opened on the city of Anna Maria’s Pine Avenue. This Tex-Mex style restaurant offers scratch made flour tortillas, hormone free meat, and organic veggies. Poppo’s guacamole is out of this world amazing. Poppo’s makes all their food right in front of you, and you get to choose all your toppings too! Their menu includes tacos, burritos, quesadillas and meals in bowls. Poppo’s staff prepares everything on site including their guac, sauces, and slow roasted meats, just to name a few. You’ll love the food in addition to their local craft beers, high fructose free soda, and Kombucha probiotic drink.

Tortilla Bay Southwest Grill is also a great option for a guacamole fix. Located in Holmes Beach, Tortilla Bay is quick and inexpensive lunch or dinner. They offer many Tex-Mex favorites along with salads. Not only do they have a fantastic guac, but the queso dip is a must! Tortilla Bay has a kids menu along with a beer and wine menu.

Wicked Cantina is located in Bradenton Beach, and specializes in Austin style Tex-Mex. In addition to their traditional Tex-Mex they also offer great burgers and seafood options. Wicked Cantina has a full service bar with craft cocktails. Try the Margarita! Often times they offer live music in their outdoor seating area. When you visit, be sure to try the guacamole bites. For this appetizer they roll guacamole in tortilla chips, deep fry, and serve with a side or ranch dip. Delicious!

National Guacamole Day — A big batch of Guacamole made fresh daily in the kitchen at Poppo’s Taqueria.

Top 15 Anna Maria Island Beach Cottage Rentals

Anna Maria Island beach cottage rentals are the perfect way to experience this old Florida vacation destination. There aren’t many places like the island anymore. You won’t find any high rises, big night clubs or chain store outlets in this quaint coastal getaway. Such a charming gulf island, a beautiful vacation cottage is the perfect match.

Anna Maria Island Beach Cottage Rentals

Here is a list of 15 of the best Anna Maria Island beach cottage rentals for you to try out! All offer a little something different. Additionally, these range from old to new, and from bronze to platinum rated. Arranged by city location in Anna Maria, Holmes Beach or Bradenton Beach, these great cottages also span the entire island.

Anna Maria beach cottage rentals

Sea Song is a direct gulf front cottage. Updated in December 2015, the beach is your backyard! Sleep up to six in this two bedroom home with beautiful beach views and amenities. Gold rated.

Anna Maria Island beach cottage rentals — Sea Song 103 Sea Grape Lane.

The Seashell Cottage is just down the street from gulf beaches, and is within walking distance to Pine Avenue shopping and dining. This quaint cottage also sleeps six guests with two bedrooms. Silver rated.

Anna Maria Beach cottage rental — The Seashell Cottage 118 Palmetto Avenue.

Fish House is really something special! Sleep eight guests with three bedrooms. Enjoy high end luxury mixed with an old fish camp feel. Heated pool and spa too! Gold rated.

Anna Maria cottage vacation rental — Fish House 231 Oak Avenue.

Dolphin Watch is similarly a great beach front cottage. Furthermore, this home sleeps six with two bedrooms, and beach views. Gold rated.

Blue Bayou is a stylish updated cottage. Sleeps six with three bedrooms on direct canal front. Undoubtedly a beautiful location with heated pool and spa! Platinum rated.

Anna Maria Rental Cottage — Blue Bayou 229 Chilson Avenue

Hacienda Del Mar is in fact one of the larger cottage beach rentals offered on the list. Sleep eight guests with four bedrooms. Also on direct gulf front, and recently updated. Gold rated.

beach rental Anna Maria — Hacienda Del Mar 765 North Shore Drive.

Holmes Beach cottage rentals

Minnie Cottage is surely the ideal Holmes Beach cottage. Also sleeps eight guests, but with three bedrooms. This raised cottage has a heated pool and is a newer home. Platinum rated.

Blue Lagoon 6 Osprey is a popular cottage. In contrast to others, this cottage is located in a small complex. Sleeps four with two bedrooms, and just a short walk to the beach. Gold rated.

Beach Cottage rental Holmes Beach — Blue Lagoon 6 – Osprey – 215 67th Street.

Beach Comber is great for a no frills cottage. That is to say, this rental offers all the basics, but with the addition of direct gulf views. Also sleeps six with two bedrooms. Bronze rated.

Anna Maria Island vacation rental Holmes Beach — Beach Comber 3020 Avenue F.

Captains House is a funky Florida cottage. To clarify, this home has a retro feel that is super fun. Sleep eight with three bedrooms, and also a loft style with two living levels. Bronze rated.

Beach house rentals anna maria island — Captains House 208 Haverkos.

Misty Beach has an updated beach style, and sleeps six guests with two bedrooms. This cottage offers a heated pool too! Gold rated.

Vacation cottage Holmes Beach — Misty Beach 5802 Imperiore Avenue.

Pelican Landing AMI is a spacious cottage with three bedrooms for up to eight guests. This great home also has a fun backyard Tiki hut and heated pool. Gold rated.

Rental cottage Holmes Beach — Pelican Landing AMI 306 55th Street.

Jackie’s Cottage is an updated canal front cottage with a heated pool. Manatees frequent this canal too! Sleep eight guests with four bedrooms. Gold rated.

Anna Maria Island cottage rental Holmes Beach — Jackie’s Cottage 209 North Harbor Drive.

Bradenton Beach cottage rental

A Pirate’s Cove is a 1950’s cottage updated with modern coastal charm and amenities. Heated pool, and also just a block from gulf beaches. Sleep six with two bedrooms. Gold rated.

Katie’s Beach Bungalow is a short walk to gulf beaches, and has a heated pool and spa! Sleep four guests with two bedrooms. Bronze rated.

Cottage rental Anna Maria Island — Katie’s Beach Bungalow 108 8th Street South.

Enjoy the perfect Old Florida paradise getaway by the beach with one of these charming Anna Maria Island beach cottage rentals. Visit IslandReal.com today to reserve your stay.

Anna Maria Island Labor Day Activities

Relax with a beach break and Anna Maria Island Labor Day activities. A quiet island holiday, Labor Day is a time to enjoy beaches, family and friends, and an extra long weekend.

September is off the off season on Anna Maria Island. Generally speaking, Islanders love this time of year. Visitors to the island will not find many events happening, but will enjoy fewer crowds. End of summer things to do are the focus of Labor day. Grilling food, enjoying cold drinks and relaxing on the beach with friends are among popular things to do.

Anna Maria Island Labor Day Activities on the beach

Everyone loves a Labor Day beach break! Additionally, beach games are a fun way to relax during the holiday. Frisbee, corn hole, tag football and volleyball are good old beach game standbys.

Many people also enjoy beach combing during labor day. Anna Maria Island has lots of pretty shells to collect. When searching for shells remember to never take living shells.

Labor Day Eats

Labor day is a fantastic time to enjoy grilled foods and tasty drinks. A Labor day gathering of family and friends just isn’t complete without firing up the grill! Open fires, grilling and alcohol are not allowed on the beaches of Anna Maria Island. However, the large public beach accesses offer designated grilling areas. Additionally, many Anna Maria Island vacation rentals do offer propane or charcoal grills.

Anna Maria Island Labor day activities — Labor Day is a great time to visit Anna Maria Island

Labor Day Business Openings

Many of the restaurants and shops are open Labor day weekend on Anna Maria Island. When you visit you are sure to find open businesses. The free trolley also runs on Labor day, so you can get around the island easily.

Labor Day Beach House Rentals Anna Maria Island

Island Real Estate offers Anna Maria Island’s largest selection of beach house rentals. Finding the perfect Labor day rental is easy when you rent through Island Real Estate!

Beach House Rentals Holmes Beach — North Beach Village 72 would make for a lovely Labor Day Anna Maria Island beach house rental. Located in Holmes Beach this rental accommodates up to 6 guests! Click on the image above to reserve your stay today!

Summer’s End Beach House Rentals Anna Maria Island

It’s not too late to enjoy end of summer beach house rentals Anna Maria Island style! Pumpkin spice latte is back on the Starbucks menu, kids are in school again, and Fall is less than a month away. Now is the time to plan that last minute summer getaway!

Summer Beach House Rentals Anna Maria Island in September

September is a fantastic time of year to visit Anna Maria Island. This is the off season, so the beaches are far less busy. During a September visit you’ll also notice there are fewer cars on the streets. The entire Island has a different vibe in the late summer. People are a little calmer as locals enjoy the respite from busy high season.

End of Summer beach Scene

Anna Maria Island beaches are as beautiful as ever in the late summer. The weather is hot and rainy during September in Florida, however, beaches are still very nice. Lots of rain may make the water a tad less blue than the normal, but it also cools the water temperature down. Gulf beaches are bathtub like in July and August, so a little rain makes them more refreshing.

End of Summer Island Activities

When you visit the island at the end of summer you may notice a few of the island’s restaurants are closed. This is when operators make improvements, and also have a little summer vacation before seasons starts again. However, there are still plenty of places to dine that are open year round. Closures are typically no more than a week long, or even just a few days.

Summer is also an excellent time to visit activities off island. With less congested roads, getting on and off the island is much easier in late summer. This is a fantastic time to drive down to Sarasota, or head into Bradenton to try new activities. You will find museums, shopping and sightseeing in both Sarasota and Bradenton.

Summer’s End Beach House Rentals Anna Maria Island have lowest rates.

The end of summer is one of the most affordable times to visit Anna Maria Island. September is when many beach houses lower their rates. These lower rates continue through to mid December when visitors from the north start to come down again. These lower rates don’t always include Labor Day weekend as this is the last busy weekend of the season. Rates for beach house rentals typically fluctuate to coincide with demand or popular seasons.

Direct Beach House Rentals Anna Maria Island

September is also the perfect time of year to reserve a direct beach front rental!

Hidden Cove is a fantastic direct gulf Front beach rental Anna Maria Island style. This is a great example of the type of rentals available in September.

Hidden Cove unit 1 offers accommodations for up to four guests with two bedrooms and two and half bathrooms. During your stay, enjoy direct gulf views from the master bedroom and main living space. You will love spending time on the open balcony watching sunsets, and relaxing. The quiet Hidden Cove complex also offers a community pool, and is located near free trolley stops, shopping and dining.

Beach House Rentals Anna Maria Island Florida — Click on the image to reserve Hidden Cove unit 1 for your next Beach house rental Anna Maria Island Holmes Beach.

Island Real Estate has the largest selection of Anna Maria Island beach rentals you’ll find in the area! When searching for a summer’s end beach rental be sure to check out the Sunshine Specials page for great deals.

Enjoy an Anna Maria Island paradise vacation and reserve the perfect beach rental today at IslandReal.com!

Anna Maria Island Beach Rental Near Bridge Street Pier

Enjoy an Anna Maria Island Beach rental near Bridge Street Pier, so you can experience the quaint character of Bradenton Beach. Located on the southern end of Anna Maria Island, the Bridge Street Pier is full of Florida charm. Bradenton Beach is home to quirky characters, comfortable restaurants and funky little beach shops. When you visit the Bridge Street Pier you’ll fall in love with Bradenton Beach.

Bradenton Beach Bridge street Pier — The Bridge Street Pier is the historic site of the Cortez Bridge. Find great old Florida charm when you visit!

The Bridge Street Pier

The Bridge Street Pier is the historic site of the first bridge connecting the Island to the main land. When you visit, you’ll notice the newer Cortez Bridge just to the north. Walking along the Bridge Street Pier you can almost feel the history, and imagine days past. Take in the smells of the Intracoastal Waterway, and the sights of people fishing. If you are lucky you just may see someone catch something!

Pier Activities

When you visit the Bridge Street Pier you’ll experience a relaxing atmosphere. Bring your fishing pole, and try your hand at Florida fishing. If you don’t have a pole you can rent one from the little shop at the base of the pier. Schedule a dolphin tour at the same shop, and you’ll get to see island wildlife. Boats tours are a fabulous way to view the island!

Next to the Dolphin tours shop you’ll also find a cute jewelry store with hand made silver items along with local artwork.

Dining on the Pier

Anna Maria Oyster Bar is also located at the base of the pier. Here you’ll find fresh seafood, and a laid back island style atmosphere. Slurp down a belly full of Oysters while taking in the views of Sarasota Bay.

Bridge Street

Heading off the pier you’ll find more activities and dining along Bridge Street. Bridge Street Merchants provide a variety of wares, and funky Florida souvenirs perfect for remembering your stay. There is also a miniature golf course located on Bridge Street for family fun, or find night life at pubs for adult time fun.

Anna Maria Island Beach Rental near Bridge Street Pier

Finding the perfect Anna Maria Island beach rental near Bridge Street Pier is easy. Island Real Estate offers many Anna Maria Island beach rental options to suit any need. Additionally, Island Real Estate has the largest selections of homes you’ll find on the island. Call Island Real Estate first at 877-778-6066 when choosing the perfect vacation destination on Anna Maria Island!

Anna Maria Island Club Beach Rentals

The Anna Maria Island Club is a gorgeous direct gulf front condo complex, and are just a short drive North of the Bridge Street Pier. Island Real Estate offers several Anna Maria Island Club units all with direct gulf front balcony views with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Some of these units accommodate four guests while some sleep up to six guests. 2016 Base rates for these condos range from $1260-$2625/week depending on the unit, or even the time of year you decide to visit. These Condos have a heated pool and spa over looking the beach, so you can experience the perfect Anna Maria Island beach rental!

South Beach Village Beach Rentals

South Beach Village is just across the street from gulf beaches. These units offer gulf views, bay views or both. The South Beach Village condos are also just north of Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach comfortably accommodating six guests each. All units offers three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. South Beach Village units welcome pets under 25 pounds with a pet fee. This complex also offes a heated community pool. 2016 Base rates range from $1000-$2260/week depending on the unit and time of visit.

Bradenton Beach Club Beach Rentals

The Bradenton Beach Club is also just north of the Bridge Street Pier. Some of these condo units have direct gulf views while others are nestled across the street further in the complex. The beach side units have a heated pool while the bay side units have a heated pool and spa. Bradenton Beach Club condos sleep six guests with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. 2016 Base rates range from $1100-$2625/week. This rate depends on the specific unit, time of visit, and is at the higher end for direct gulf views. This complex stretches from the gulf side to the bay side of the island, and also offers a great fishing dock on the bay side.

More Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals

For additional suggested Anna Maria Island beach rentals head over to IslandReal.com, and explore homes through the Advanced Search Page. Island Real Estate also offers Holmes Beach rentals and Anna Maria beach rentals, so you are sure to find the best beach accommodations in Florida!

Anna Maria Island Vacation Rental Cooking

Anna Maria Island vacation rental cooking is easy and delicious if you know how. Home chefs with even the most basic of cooking skills can create fresh, convenient and enjoyable meals. Anna Maria Island is a great vacation spot for beach fun, but also offers great local ingredients for meal time. While visiting the island you’ll find fresh seafood, local produce and local made craft beers.

Anna Maria Island Vacation Rental Cooking Guide

Follow these easy tips, and you will have a week worth of creative easy meals you won’t forget!

Get seasonal

Before making your way to an Anna Maria Island vacation rental, get an idea of what is in season. Food can be a factor when picking a vacation destination. Every region of the world is known for a unique seasonal food, so if you plan to cook, plan on enjoying what is readily available. Picking foods at their seasons peak is the best way to enjoy eating.

Popular Seasons on Anna Maria Island

Spiny Lobster – Begining of August through March.
Stone Crab Claws – Mid October through mid May.
Mullet – Peaks in the Fall; Thanksgiving through January.
Tomatoes – Year round except July, August and September.
Strawberries – December – April.
Citrus – All year with the exception of summer months.

Learn more about when and what is growing in Manatee County here.

Go Local with Anna Maria Island vacation rental cooking

Eating seasonally is only part of what makes a great vacation rental cooking experience. You must also shop local. Anna Maria Island is home to several specialty shops run by locals. Check out Anna Maria Olive Oil Outpost, The Island Fresh Market and Starfish Market to find a variety of specialty items. From fresh off the boat seafood to fresh baked bread these locals run specialty shops are a big hit.

Keeping it Simple and One Pot Meals

Save fancy fussy meals for dining out when staying in an Anna Maria Island vacation rental. Keep meal time easy, so you don’t become stressed out. Fight the urge to try out a new complicated recipe, and let professionals wow you instead. Complicated and messy meal preparation doesn’t lend to the laid back style of the island.

Preparing large dishes that can last through the week is a smart option.

For breakfast try make ahead options like quiche using a store bought pie crust. Make quiche ahead of time, and simply re-heat in the morning. A large batch of chicken salad can create beautiful sandwiches, or simply sit on top of a bowl of dressed greens for easy lunch options.

Try one pot meals for dinner time.

There is nothing easier than throwing some fresh local ingredients all in one pot. You can create many delicious meals, and have little to clean up when you try out these great one pot meals from Martha Stewart.

Take a kitchen equipment inventory

When you get to your Anna Maria Island vacation rental take an inventory of what kitchen equipment is available. You may want to inquire what is available ahead of time if you decide to bring food with you. Some dishes require special equipment. Inquiring is also a good idea if you have a particular dish you’ll be making. This way you won’t have to buy special equipment for your stay.

Splurge on Quality

You’re on vacation, so treat yourself like it! Splurge on buying quality ingredients, and not just the generic or less expensive versions of items. Vacations are about relaxing and enjoying things you don’t usually experience, so go all out.

Avoid bargain bulk buys

Often when shopping for groceries, shoppers will buy the items with a great bang for buck ratio. Doing so leads you to buying large portions of individual items. This practice may not be appropriate for a vacation rental kitchen. After your week long vacation you probably don’t want to transport food home, so consider buying smaller portions from the grocery store. Only what you need during your stay. The exception to this rule would be for those vacationing with very large groups.

Grill out with your fresh catch

Anna Maria Island is the perfect Florida vacation destination for a fishing excursion. With access to the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay and Intracoastal Waterways, fishing is great on Anna Maria Island. Many of the Island Real Estate vacation rentals offer propane or charcoal grills. A Florida style backyard barbecue with your fresh catch is a vacation tradition for many. If fish isn’t really your forte, then try grilling up some nice steaks for dinner.

Local Craft Beer

There are many craft beer breweries within an hours drive from Anna Maria Island, but you don’t have travel to find great beer. Find beers from Tampa, St. Petersburg, Bradenton and Sarasota on Anna Maria Island. Visit Publix shopping center, Walgreens liquor store, or Hurricane Hanks liquor store to find local craft beers. All these retailers are in Holmes Beach, but restaurants along the entire island offer local brews.

Recipes for Anna Maria Island vacation rental cooking

Restaurant Style Smoked Fish Dip

Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

Grilled Mahi Mahi with Pineapple Bark

Anna Maria Island vacation rental homes with gorgeous kitchens

Island Real Estate offers Anna Maria Island vacation rentals and beach houses with great kitchens! Whether you just need a small kitchen for a few guests, or you need to accommodate a large group with a big kitchen. Island Real Estate has the perfect Florida vacation rental to fit your needs. Reserve your Anna Maria Island today with Island Real Estate!

Anna Maria Island vacation rental cooking — Anna Maria Island vacation rental Bay View Inn 202 offers a perfect cozy kitchen for 4 guests. Click on the image to learn about this updated Bradenton Beach vacation rental home.

Find the perfect Anna Maria Island vacation rental, and enjoy eating during your Florida vacation! You may not be the worlds most creative chef, but follow this guide for Anna Maria Island vacation rental cooking ideas!

Eat Anna Maria Island Oysters While Vacationing

Anna Maria- When vacationing on the coast eating fresh seafood is a must, and Anna Maria Island Oysters are no exception. With countless restaurants on the island, finding some delicious oysters to eat is easier than ever!

Anna Maria Island Oysters

Many people believe humans have eaten oysters since the Roman times from evidence of oyster farms in France and the United Kingdom. Crazy right?

Oysters can be found in all of the world’s oceans. They are bivalve mollusks that have rough irregular shells. While most oysters are edible, there is a difference between food oysters and pearl oysters. Even though it is possible, most food oysters don’t produce pearls. Both are also in two different families of bivalves.

Surprisingly enough, oysters breathe much like fish, using both gills and mantle. They can be both male or female, and can change genders one or more times throughout their life.

Health Benefits

Oysters are one of the most nutritionally balanced foods because they have proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids in them. Just eating four or five medium sized oysters supply the recommended daily source of iron, copper, iodine, magnesium, calcium, zinc, manganese and phosphorus!

Where to celebrate!

With so many restaurants on the island, there’s plenty of options for eating Anna Maria Island Oysters! Here’s a few to think of going to:

AMOB on the Pier– Located in Bradenton Beach, enjoy delicious oyster platters such as Grandma Georgie’s Chipotle Oysters or an oyster sampler.

Island Gourmet Grill– Serving baked oysters with toppings such as cheese, bacon, and jalapenos, there’s no way to go wrong here! You can find Island Gourmet on Holmes Beach.

Island Fresh Market– Specializing in locally caught and grown food, the Fresh Market serves oysters caught right around the island! You can order them cooked or raw. You can find them on Holmes Beach!

Be sure to enjoy Anna Maria Island Oysters on your next visit!