Beaches Archives - Island Real Blog

Top 10 Anna Maria Island Beaches – Things to Know!

It’s no secret that some of the most beautiful Gulf of Mexico coastline can be found on Anna Maria Island beaches. Powder white quartz sand, clear blue waters, exotic wildlife and endless sunshine make for the perfect place to relax all day and let your cares wash away.

Anna Maria Island Beaches

There are several things to keep in mind when visiting Island beaches. So, Island Real Estate has come up with our top ten list of things to know about Anna Maria Island beaches. From deciding which beach to visit to where to find parking, Here’s everything you need to know for fun in the sun.

1. Sunblock

If you are a Floridian you have a complete understanding and respect for the necessity of sunblock. It only takes one really bad sunburn to learn your lesson, and no one should suffer from this mistake on vacation. Even on an overcast day it’s possible to get sunburned! It is extremely important to slather on the sunblock at least 20 minutes prior to heading to the beach to allow your skin to properly absorb sunblock. Be sure to reapply sunblock every few hours, especially on the kids. Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you are safe from the sun in the water; you still need to use every precaution to avoid a bad burn. In addition to sunblock consider a hat, sunglasses, lots of water for keeping hydrated and a loose fitting shirt to cover bare skin.

2. Places to Beach

Sunset on Anna Maria Island — Be sure to catch one of Anna Maria Island’s beautiful sunsets!

Anna Maria Island has over seven miles of beaches to explore, but finding the perfect beach for you is important for having the ultimate island experience. One great thing about Anna Maria Island is the abundance of public beach accesses all along the gulf and bay sides of the island; however, not all public accesses have available parking. With each beach offering a little something different, here are four options to better curate your beach excursion.

Manatee Beach

Manatee Public Beach Access is perhaps the island’s most popular, and therefore, busiest of beach spots. With just about all the amenities you could want for the beach, Manatee Public Beach is an island hot spot. Located at the very end of west Manatee Avenue, this public beach offers tons of free parking, lifeguards, bathrooms, showers, gift shops, concessions, changing rooms, free trolley and public bus stop, volley ball nets, tourist information, picnic tables under shady Australian Pines and a fabulously sandy playground for the kids. This Beach Access is truly the heart of the island beach scene.

Coquina Beach

Coquina Beach Access is located along the south end of Anna Maria Island running up the gulf side. This popular beach has tons of parking, grill and picnic areas, playground, lifeguard, bathrooms, trolley stop, concessions, and an absolutely gorgeous walking/bike path running along the sea oat sand dunes.

Bay Front Park

Bay Front Park Beach Access is located on the northern end of Anna Maria Island south of Bean Point running along Tampa Bay. This park has an updated playground, picnic grills and shelters, bathrooms, some parking, and nearby Trolley stop at the Anna Maria City Pier. The beaches are narrow along the bay side, but there are views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, Tampa bay and gorgeous sunrises.

Bean Point

Bean Point Beach Access is one of the most secluded and sought after beach destinations on Anna Maria Island. Parking is extremely limited making this beach more accessible by foot or via bicycle. Bean Point beaches are mostly deep and expansive with powder sand, sea oats, dunes and wildlife. Enjoy great views of Egmont key, Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

3. Beach Safety

Beach Safety is an important thing to keep in mind when swimming and enjoying a day at the beach on Anna Maria Island. Be sure to observe all signs regarding swimming conditions including rip tide warnings. Look for one of the five colored flags posted to understand current swimming precautions.

4. Shells

Anna Maria Island seashell — Shelling and Beach Combing on Anna Maria Island is fun for all ages!

Beach Combing and shelling are a fun beach activity for the entire family when visiting Anna Maria Island. With so many different species of shells and wildlife you never know what you’ll come across when strolling the powder white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. There are plenty of places to find shells on the island with some of the best finds washing up after stormy weather.

5. Beach toys

No matter how young or old beach toys are a must for the beach. Making sand castles with bucket and shovel, throwing around a Frisbee or clinging to a noodle; beach toys are always a fun addition to your beach trip.

6. Temperatures

Regardless of when you visit Anna Maria Island the weather and water temperature are almost always gorgeous. In the summer expect seasonal afternoon showers, and bath like water temperatures. Some visitors even swim in the winter, but we’ll leave that up to your judgement.

7. Turtle Season, Birds, Dolphins, and Wildlife.

Black Skimmer and baby — Black Skimmer feeding baby during nesting season on Anna Maria Island.

Anna Maria Island is fortunate to be the year round, and seasonal home of many different species of wildlife. Each year between May 1st and October 31st we find several species of Sea Turtles coming ashore to lay eggs. In the spring and winter months Anna Maria Island is home to many birds nesting on the beaches including the stoic Black Skimmers and Least Terns. Sea mammals like dolphin and manatee can be spotted around Anna Maria Island at various times throughout the year. With so much wildlife it is important to respect these beautiful inhabitants.

8. Respect the beach – Clean up

The beach is a beautiful public place that must be cherished and protected. There are wrong and right ways to utilize this resource. When visiting the beach follow all posted rules, avoid feeding the seagulls and be sure to clean up all your trash and debris when you leave. It only takes two minutes to keep trash and litter off our pristine beaches!

9. Surfing

Anna Maria Island may not be the first place that surfers flock to for huge waves, but the locals still enjoy our laid back surf culture and climate none the less. White Avenue in the city of Anna Maria is one popular surfing spot. If you aren’t into surfing try out wake boarding during your stay!

10. Day Trip to Egmont and Fishing

Egmont Key Florida — Egmont Key Light house

If you are looking for a great place to bring your boat and go for a swim Egmont Key is always fun and beautiful. Located just off the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, Egmont is a great short day trip into bay waters.

Stay up to date with everything about fishing on Anna Maria Island on the Island Real Estate local scene blog page Fishing Report. From the Intracoastal waterway to the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay there are plenty of great fishing opportunities.

When visiting Anna Maria Island be sure to stay safe, have fun, put on your sunscreen and enjoy lounging on beautiful Florida beaches!

Anna Maria Island Vacation Rental Homes and Accommodations

If you are looking for the perfect vacation rental home visit IslandReal.com today! Enjoy the largest selection of vacation rental accommodations to choose from on the island along with great customer service!

Anna Maria Island Club vacation rental and accommodations — Anna Maria Island Club is a picturesque direct beach front condominium complex located in Bradenton Beach. Anna Maria Island Club 44 offers accommodations for up to 6 guests with balcony views of the gulf from both the living room and master bedroom. Click on the image above to reserve your stay at Anna Maria Island Club 44 today!

Anna Maria Island 4th of July Beach Vacation – Activities and Fun Guide

An Anna Maria Island 4th of July beach vacation should be on everyone’s bucket list! What better way to spend the day than relaxing while the family enjoys swimming in the gulf on a hot Summer day?

Anna Maria Island 4th of July Beach Vacation

4th of July on Anna Maria Island is an experience unlike any other holiday. There’s a buzz of excitement in the air that words just can’t explain. A feeling like the day will be one you’ll never forget.

4th of July beach prep

This holiday is one of the busiest beach days every year, so you’ll want to come prepared. The biggest benefit of planning a vacation centered around Independence Day is you’ll already be on the island, so you won’t have to fight traffic. Smart right? Even better, since you’ll be staying in a vacation rental so close to the beach, you can pick your spot ahead of the crowd!

Find some really great deals on 4th of July beach rentals at IslandReal.com!

Plan on purchasing everything you’ll need one or two days prior. Why stress last minute? Beach vacations are supposed to be relaxing.

Be sure to put on Sunblock 20 minutes before you’ll be in the sun, and re-apply every two hours. Over exposure to the sun can cause symptoms such as fever and nausea. A sunburn is a sure way to ruin a beach vacation.

The Privateers 4th of July Parade

Every year The Privateers, a non-profit organization, host the Anna Maria Island 4th of July parade. There is nothing better than a small town parade, and this one is fun and heart warming. Starting on the south end of the island on Coquina Beach the parade runs the entire length of the island ending at Pine Avenue in the city of Anna Maria. Catch candy and beads and be sure to watch out for the squirt guns! This family fun event is free and starts at 10am.

Hanging out on the beach

Since the parade ends around noon you’ll have the entire rest of the day to wait for the evenings fireworks. This is when all the fun really happens!

For something different at the beach try renting a paddle board or even beach games from one of the many great rental companies on AMI. Find some suggested here.

Obviously you’ll want to have some great food and drink items. We have put together a list of great picnic and dining ideas along with a fun selection of beach games on Pinterest.

Sandbar Fireworks Display

While enjoying an Anna Maria Island 4th of July beach vacation you’ll get the chance to catch a great show on the beach! The only fireworks allowed on the beach are Sparklers. However, you can gather along the coast and catch the Sandbar Restaurant’s annual display. From just about anywhere on the beach you’ll have a view of the fireworks, but for a real fun time purchase tickets for a front row view. Follow this AMI fireworks guide to book your seat!

When you visit the beach for this holiday you’re sure to feel like you Independence Day is complete with fun, family and beach time. Plan your Anna Maria Island 4th of July beach vacation today!

Take Time for Sunset on Anna Maria Island

It’s important to take time for sunset on Anna Maria Island. One special thing about visiting the west coast of Florida is watching the sun sink into the Gulf of Mexico. There’s nothing like the experience.

Reasons why you need to Take Time for Sunset on Anna Maria Island

Beyond the fact that sunsets are beautiful, they are good for your health. Here are the top reasons why you NEED more sunset in your life!

Relaxation and Stress Relief

There is no better way to relax than with a sunset on the beach. Watching the pink and red skies transforming over turquoise waters that gently lap white sandy beaches. Sunsets lulls you into a state of calm. While looking out on an expanding horizon that is so much bigger than yourself its makes your personal problems seem so small. Sunset is a great stress reliever in this way. Let your worries sink into the gulf like the setting sun.

Anna Maria Island Sunset — “Every sunset brings the promise of a new dawn.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Inspiration

Sunset is inspirational for many. The striking colors, the happy calm of the crowd of onlookers, the soothing sound of the ocean. Sunset drives artists to paint and musicians to compose. Beach sunsets are where epiphanies are born.

Anna Maria Sunset — “Twilight fell: The sky turned to a light, dusky purple littered with tiny silver stars.” – J.K. Rowling

Appreciation

Sunset teaches us to appreciate the little things in life. Sunset brings us appreciation for being outdoors, and helps us value our time with the ones we love. When everything is glowing orange we can see the world in a new light. Time seems to slows down and you can really see that the world is awesome.

Sunset of the Gulf of Mexico — “Sunset is a wonderful opportunity for us to appreciate all the great things the sun gives us!” – Mehmet Murat ildan

Mental Health

Spending time with a sunset is great for your mental well being. With the hustle and bustle of the modern life style its hard to fit in time for yourself. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the obligations of work and family leaving little time to think about your own needs. A sunset allows you to center your mind while focusing on Earth’s beauty.

Florida Sunset — “Every sunset is an opportunity to reset.” –
Richie Norton

Anna Maria Island Sea Salt Florida – Bring Island Flavor Home

Anna Maria Island Sea Salt Florida is nothing like you’ve ever had. Sourced directly from the water around AMI, this is one product you must bring home from vacation!

Anna Maria Island Sea Salt Florida

Sea Salt Florida is a new local company to the Manatee and Sarasota area. Owner and Salt Master Tim Norwood develops only the highest quality sea salt. While he has big plans for the future of this specialty item, the entire process is a labor of love that started off small.

How did Sea Salt Florida get started?

Tim Norwood and his wife always thought they would open a winery. However, after moving to Florida that idea changed to salt. Florida isn’t known for having the best wines, but it does have plenty of salt water!

Like wine making, salt making is an intense process requiring a great deal of knowledge. At times the outcome can be unpredictably amazing, but always requires a creative mind and dedication to hard work. Essentially, Sea Salt Florida became Tim Norwoods Winery.

At 55 years old Tim spent the majority of his career as an engineer with a degree in architecture. Tim has made up tons of innovative ideas working for large companies, but saved one of his ideas just for himself.

He spent a great deal of time developing his craft. After two years of working a full time job during the day while experimenting with salt production all night, Tim became a Salt Master. He has learned everything about producing only the highest quality sea salt. Tim focused on ancient thousand year old techniques of production and believes his to be the best in the United States.

Sea Salt Florida — Sea Salt is a serious business for the Norwood family!

How do you make Sea Salt?

If you are wondering exactly how Sea Salt is made, keep guessing. Tim Norwood keeps this secret closely guarded. With that said, he will gladly tell you the body of water where the salt comes from. In fact, Tim is proud to harvest salt water from Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, Casey Key, Venice and Treasure Island.

He mentions Anna Maria Island is his favorite harvest, but that may be due to his fondness of the area. Tim elaborates that the Siesta Key harvest has the most unique flavor of his products, and the Anna Maria Island salt is his most popular seller.

Tim is currently looking to relocate his production to mainland Bradenton where he has been looking at potential facility sites. Once Tim gets his new facility running successfully he just might consider giving tours. Until he knows his company is completely secure, he’s not giving away ANY of his salty secrets.

The goal for Sea Salt Florida is to produce 12,000 pounds of salt a year to supply local and international markets. Tim Norwood is creating a company that is really something special. The type of operation that he can leave to his grandchildren while also bringing permanent jobs to Manatee county.

A truly tasty souvenir.

When you first taste Sea Salt Florida’s Anna Maria Island harvest you will instantly feel like you’re back on the beach. This salt really does taste like the gulf waters of Anna Maria Island. Once you try Tim’s salt you’ll never view store bought products the same. Tim points out, “Sea Salt Florida won’t get your bags checked at the airport like a bottle of wine will”! When leaving Anna Maria Island, you MUST bring home some local salt to go with your new tan.

Where to buy Sea Salt Florida

The secret of Sea Salt Florida is its amazing mineral content. That is where the flavor is. Sea Salt Florida contains as many as 80 different minerals. Iodine is NEVER included. “This is the type of salt people are supposed to eat” mentions Tim, “This is a healthier natural product”.

Sea Salt Florida can be found at a ton of different local retail shops, or on the website.

On Anna Maria Island you can buy Sea Salt Florida at the following:

The Olive Oil Outpost and Anna Maria Historic Society Museum in the city of Anna Maria.
Island Fresh Market and Looney Dunes in Holmes Beach.
Cortez Fish Market, Cortez Maritime Museum and The Sea Hagg in Cortez Fishing Village.
Sarasota Farmers Market in downtown Sarasota.

Tim doesn’t like for his vendor to compete, so you’ll find different products at different locations. Not only does Sea Salt Florida have different harvests, but Tim also offers flavored salts and scrubs.

If you head over to Looney Dunes you’ll find Tim’s salts for sale next to the flavors of wine that the salt has been infused with!

Find a variety of scrubs at the Sea Hagg. Salt Scrubs are not the biggest seller in Tim’s inventory, but he believes his are far superior than other beauty products on the market.

Sea Salt Florida is about community.

Tim has really enjoyed the community aspects of selling salt. He regularly gets thank you letters from buyers. Tim explains, “Giving salt is an ancient form of friendship”.

Local restaurant have begun to approach Tim because his salt is the best. He has even started designing flavors to match Florida seafood like his Lemon Zest flavor created for local fish mongers.

A popular salt on the market is Italian Black Truffle. In Florida we don’t have truffles or a really reliable source to bring them in fresh. Tim had the bright idea of creating a Portabello infused salt because we grow them in Florida and it makes a great substitute for Truffle salt.

Salt really has an interesting history, and its special to continue those traditions. Tim also mentions, “Sea Salt Florida isn’t a political issue because it brings everyone together that is looking for healthier living. Coming together is something people need right now.”

If you run out of salt, just send Tim an email and he’ll gladly send you more. This is the best way to order salt online as Sea Salt Florida doesn’t have a fancy online store set up yet.

Visit local vendors, or head over to SeaSaltFlorida.com for a complete list of flavors as there are many!

Bring Island flavor home with Anna Maria Island Sea Salt Florida!

Top 5 May Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals

While Spring may be in full swing, its not too late to find May Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals. May is an awesome time of year for a trip to AMI. Spring break is over and the Snow Birds are slowly making their way north after Easter. Gulf waters have started to warm up, and the beaches are hot with fun in the sun excitement.

Top 5 May Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals

It’s not too late to plan a May beach vacation. Check out our list of 5 great rentals with May availability. These units range from 1 to 5 bedrooms accommodating anywhere from 2 through 10 guests.

Runaway Bay 256 – 1 Bedroom

This lovely Bradenton Beach rental sleeps 2 guests for a truly romantic beach getaway. While you visit Runaway Bay 256 you’ll have access to nearby gulf beaches, free trolley stops, shopping and dining. You’ll love this quiet spot for tropical relaxation. May base rates range from $700-$850/week.

May Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals — Runaway Bay 256 Sleeps 2 with 1 Bedroom and 1 Bath.

You’ll love the amenities at this comfortable resort-like Bradenton Beach Rental.

Runaway Bay 256 beach rental — Enjoy the heated pool, bay fishing dock, tennis courts and more!

Casa Sierra 205 B – 2 Bedroom

Casa Sierra 205 B is just two short blocks from gulf beaches in a central Holmes Beach. This 2 bedroom condo is in a small complex offering a heated pool, outdoor shower, pergola and charcoal bbq grills. You can comfortably sleep up to 6 guests in this unit for a fun vacation by the beach! May Base rate $1300/week.

Casa Sierra 205 B Holmes Beach Rental — Casa Sierra 205 B sleeps 6 guests with 2 bedrooms and 2 baths.

Walk to beaches, free trolley stops, shopping and dining while visiting this great beach condo!

May vacation rental — Casa Sierra is a wonderful location!

South Beach Village 103 – 3 Bedroom

You will absolutely love visiting South Beach Village 103 in Bradenton Beach. This colorful town house style condominium sleeps 6 guests with one king bed, one queen and two twins. Dogs up to 25 pounds welcome with pet fee. This lovely unit is just across the street from gulf beaches. Enjoy the beach, or grab a cold drink at nearby Gulf Drive Tiki hut. May base rates $1600-$1500/week.

May vacation rentals Florida — South Beach Village 103 sleeps 6 guests with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths

Catch glimpses of the gulf from the balcony and enjoy the heated community pool.

South Beach Village rental Anna Maria Island — Colorful multilevel unit across from gulf beaches with heated pool too.

Pineapple Cottage – 4 Bedroom

The Pineapple Cottage is a quaint spot for up to eight guests. Located in the popular Anna Maria north end, this is the quintessential beach cottage. While this may be a cottage, it still has a luxury feel and updated amenities. From the heated pool and spa, to great decor and appointments, you’ll be in love with this beach rental! May base rate $2520/week.

May Anna Maria Beach Rental — The Pineapple Cottage sleeps 8 guests with 4 bedrooms and 3 baths.

This Platinum rated home provides beach luxury at its finest with an old Florida charm!

Anna Maria May Beach Rentals — Gorgeous heated pool and spa in tropical backyard.

Sunset Glow – 5 Bedroom

Sunset Glow has everything for the perfect luxury family vacation by the beach. This home sleeps up to 10 guests with no amenity left out. You’ll be a short two blocks away from gulf beaches perfect for family beach days. Enjoy the updated decor and gorgeous backyard with heated pool and spa. Dogs up to 50 pounds welcome with pet fee. May base rates $3250-$4000/week.

Sunset Glow Holmes Beach may rental — Sunset Glow sleeps 10 guests with 5 bedrooms and 3 baths.

Relax by the private backyard pool or the shaded lounge sitting area while enjoying a luxury family getaway.

Sunset Glow May Anna Maria Island Beach Rental — Sunset Glow is just a short walk to the beach.

Book your stay today at one of these great May Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals!

Top 5 Anna Maria Island Spring Break Beach Rentals

Anna Maria Island Spring Break Beach Rentals make for unforgettable vacation! Find perfect weather, great activities and a lovely spot to gather friends for an awesome beach rental experience!

Anna Maria Island Spring Break Beach Rentals

It’s not too late to plan your Spring Break! When booking last minute March dates be sure to ask about special promotions!

Runaway Bay 272

Runaway Bay 272 is a fantastic Bradenton Beach vacation spot for six guests! This condo is just a short walk from the beach, free trolley stops, and local attractions. Inside you’ll find two bedrooms and two bathrooms with an updated casual style. Enjoy the community heated pool, fishing dock on the bay and tennis courts. 2017 Spring base rates start as low as $1300/week.

Anna Maria Island Spring Break Beach Rentals — Runaway Bay 272

La Casa Marie

La Casa Marie is a great spot for a luxury beach rental right on the beach. This three bedroom, two and a half bath rental condo sleeps six. You’ll have peeks of the gulf from the balcony along with updated amenities. Enjoy the fun wetbar with wine chiller and ice maker too! When you aren’t at the beach relax in the heated community pool and spa! 2017 Spring base rates start as low as $3150/week.

Anna Maria Island Spring Break Beach Rental — La Casa Marie

Under the Tuscan Sun

Under the Tuscan Sun is a fun Mediterranean style beach rental just a few short blocks to the most popular Anna Maria Island beaches. This three bedroom three bath rental sleeps up to six guests. You’ll love the private heated pool along with lovely balcony views. Pets under 25 pounds welcome with pet fee! 2017 Spring base rates start as low as $2000/week.

Anna Maria Island Spring Break — Under the Tuscan Sun

A Mermaid Crossing

A Mermaid Crossing offers stylish decor and a location just a short walk from the beach. This three bedroom three bathroom rental sleeps six guests with an extra touch of luxury. You’ll love the heated pool and sundeck too. The layout of this house is great for entertaining, and the master bathroom is stunning! 2017 Spring base rates start as low as $3325/week.

Anna Maria Island Spring Break Vacation Rentals — A Mermaid Crossing

Waterfront Retreat

Waterfront Retreat is the ultimate destination for a large family Spring Break vacation. Here you’ll find six bedrooms three full bathrooms and two powder rooms. This rental was truly designed for entertaining. Enjoy a well equipped kitchen with bar area, a living room with excellent seating, fun games and heated pool. The rental is on canal front with a dock, so you can even bring your boat. 2017 Spring base rates start as low as $3325/week!

Anna Maria Spring Break Beach Rental — Waterfront Retreat

Anna Maria Island Spring Break Beach Rentals are the best way to enjoy a memorable Florida Vacation!

Top 7 Reasons Anna Maria Island is the Best Family Friendly Florida Vacation

Once you visit, you’re sure to understand why Anna Maria Island is the best family friendly Florida vacation destination! From affordable group accommodations, to pristine beaches you’ll make life lasting memories on island time.

Anna Maria Island is the best Family Friendly Florida Vacation!

While other Florida cities may offer family friendly vacations, none will make your group happier than a relaxing visit to Anna Maria Island! Here’s our Top seven reasons why.

Anna Maria Island Beaches are pristine.

Anna Maria Island has some of the most beautiful Gulf of Mexico beaches you’ll find in Florida. The sand is powdery and the water is typically blue like the Caribbean. Not only are these beaches pretty, but they are great for families.

When you visit the large public beach accesses on the island you’ll find amenities that make beach trips easier. Things like bathrooms, changing stations, concessions, and play grounds make beach time a breeze.

Great family accommodations and beach rentals on Anna Maria Island.

Since Anna Maria Island is only a mile across at it’s widest section, all accommodations are near beach accesses. In fact, most are with in walking distance. If your group ends up too far to walk then rent a golf cart or bikes to get your group back and forth.

Anna Maria Island has a great selection of accommodations for larger groups and families too. You are sure to find the perfect beach rental to suit the needs of your party. From beach front luxury to laid back and budget friendly, AMI has it all.

Check out the Top 9 Family Friendly vacation rentals to visit in 2017!

Beach on a Budget

While the island does offer high-end luxury, Anna Maria Island is a great vacation destination for those on a budget. Find affordable lodging, restaurants and shopping for a vacation that won’t break the bank.

You won’t find entrance fees to any of the beaches on Anna Maria Island. Parking is also free!

Almost all of the family style rentals on Anna Maria Island have fully stocked kitchens, so you’ll save a great deal of money by making meals yourself.

You’ll find many activities that don’t require spending money on your vacation. Visit the public parks, walk on the Piers, and enjoy sightseeing without spending a dime.

Transportation and free trolley service.

There are many options for getting around the area. The free trolley is a very popular mode of transportation with stops from Pine Avenue on north end to Coquina beach on south end. Kids have lots of fun riding the trolley, and it’s air conditioned too.

Catch a ride with The Monkey Bus or Ride AMI golf carts. These services can be hailed on the street or called to pick you up. Both are a gratuity only service. Water Taxi’s are a newer way to get around the island. You’ll love riding to your destination by boat.

Island Activities are Family Fun.

Beyond the beach you’ll find fun island activities for your family. Enjoy miniature golf at the Fish Hole on Bridge Street, or climb the Pirate Ship play ground at Coquina Beach. Families love fishing on the Anna Maria City Pier, or enjoy a walk with an ice cream cone from Two Scoops.

There are many local equipment rental companies that offer bicycles, surrey bikes, tandem bikes and kid seat attachments. No matter what the age of your group, you can rent bikes for sightseeing.

There are many options for boat and fishing tours around the island. Take the kids dolphin watching, kayaking or snorkeling. For the more adventurous try fly boarding or horse surfing!

Anna Maria Island offers a central location.

While you may not want to leave the island during your stay, you’ll find AMI is nearby to many big Florida attractions. There are tons of things to do within a two hour driving distance.

Get from Anna Maria Island to Orlando is just two hours. Planning a Disney trip? You can stay on Anna Maria Island! Meet Mickey and see the best Florida beaches in the same vacation.

You’ll find things to do in Sarasota, St. Petersburg and Tampa all an hour drive or less. Enjoy Mote Marine Aquarium, The Dali Museum, Busch Gardens and plenty of attractions in these nearby cities.

Even Bradenton has fun things to do, and is just a short ride inland. The Downtown Bradenton area has the wonderful Riverfront park, or go see Snooty the Manatee at South Florida Museum.

You’ll feel like you’re in a tropical oasis in the middle of all the best Florida Attractions!

Anna Maria Island will have you feeling relaxed.

A Family friendly Florida vacation is not always relaxing, especially for parents. Some family trips can be so exhausting you don’t even feel rested when its over. Change all that with an Anna Maria Island vacation. Everything about AMI is laid back; life is just slower on island time. No one in a hurry, no long lines, no obligations or deadlines. All you need for a good day on AMI is a bathing suit, sun block, a cold beverage and your loved ones. There’s nothing like a day on the beach to get your family into relaxation mode.

Enjoy the perfect family friendly Florida vacation with a tropical getaway to Anna Maria Island.

Anna Maria Island March Activities Guide

Anna Maria Island March activities are a fantastic way to stay entertained when you aren’t too busy relaxing on the beach! Spring is a very popular time of year to visit the island, so you’ll find plenty of happenings. From art to the outdoors, check out our list of Anna Maria Island March activities.

Anna Maria Island March Activities

The weather is perfect and Florida is the place to be!

Art Slam 2017

Head off island March 4th for an immersive art experience in Downtown Bradenton. Art Slam is an annual event where local creatives come together to celebrate art, youth and the creative process. Every year this event brings a unique experience to attendees. Visit Old Main Street in Downtown Bradenton from 9am-4pm.

Explore Waif Gopher Tortoises at Perico Preserve.

Perico Preserve is a gorgeous new park just a short drive over the Manatee Bridge from Anna Maria Island. While these animals are native, the park is developing a special interest for their habitat.

Waif Gopher tortoise refers to animals ready to be released back into the wild, but don’t have a known specific area of origin. This can happen for a variety of reasons.

Manatee County has developed Perico Preserve into the perfect habitat for these homeless Waif Gopher Tortoises. While on Anna Maria Island, be sure to visit Perico Preserve for a chance to see them in person!

Island Gallery West March Feature

Check out the March featured Student Artist at the Island Gallery West. Olivia Sabo is a student at Lakewood Ranch High School. Her work “Spuds” will be on display at the gallery for the month of March. Her acrylic painting on display was inspired by her fathers Chris Sabo was inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame in 2010.

Treat Yourself at Cupcake Delights!

Head over to Capcake Delights in Holmes Beach and grab yourself one or a dozen. Because, why not? You don’t need a reason to enjoy a sweet treat when vacationing on Anna Maria Island!

Lionfish Lecture at FMM

The Florida Maritime Museum is hosting a Lecture March 15th at 3pm. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Lionfish Control Team will talk about this invasive species and how people can help combat their proliferation of Florida waterways.

Nap on the Beach

March 13 is National Napping Day which follows Day Light Savings on March 12. Celebrate with a nap on the beaches of Anna Maria Island! The sun will be warm and the sand soft! Grab a towel and an umbrella and get comfy! Just don’t forget your sunblock!

Beach Bistro Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

This year the Beach Bistro’s St. Patricks Day Parade will be on Sunday the 19th. The Parade begins at the corner of Marina and Gulf Drive the proceeds north toward Anna Maria.

Anna Maria Island Seagulls – Don’t Feed Us

Anna Maria Island Seagulls are so cute and friendly, but don’t feed them! While it may seem fun, feeding gulls is harmful to both people and birds.

Don’t Feed Anna Maria Island Seagulls

Just about everyone is guilty of feeding birds. However, few know the real impact of the action. When you are sitting on the beach relaxing, and a gull stops by, it’s easy to toss a piece of snack at them. They will beg you. They will stand on the sand and look you straight in the face, but don’t give in!

Feeding Gulls makes them ill.

Naturally gulls forage, hunt and scavenge for food. They have a diverse diet consisting of fish, mollusks, insects, reptiles, rodents and just about anything meaty they can get their beak on. Typically when people feed gulls, they offer up human food like french fries and potato chips. These types of food aren’t even good for humans, so you can be sure they are harmful to sea birds. Without proper nutrition, Gulls can become sick and weak. A people diet can actually kill these feathered friends.

Feeding Gulls changes their natural instinct.

Gulls play an important part in their environment by cleaning up bits of detritus from beaches. They won’t do their job if they are given handouts of people food.

Instinctively birds tend to be afraid of humans, but become too friendly when hand fed. Not only do they loose their fear of humans, but they become aggressive toward us. Gulls will dive bomb people and steal food right out of their hand. This is a direct consequence of human interaction. There is nothing worse than a family trip to the beach spoiled by a gull nabbing the ice cream out of a kids hand.

In some instances these birds become extremely aggressive causing people to throw rocks and objects at the birds to scare them away. Obviously this is animal abuse, and could have been avoided completely. Birds that are not scared of people also run a higher risk of being injured by cars, fishing gear, boats and other human made obstacles.

Birds fed human food have a tougher time differentiating between real food and objects. Subsequently, gulls will try to eat plastics, garbage and other non-food items.

Feeding Seagulls has a negative impact on ALL species of birds.

When birds become accustomed to hand feeding they will congregate in larger groups than they naturally would do. This has an impact on increasing the spread of bird diseases. Populations of all birds are vulnerable to disease. Avian Pox is spread by an increase in birds having direct physical contact, especially when competing for food.

Additionally, these inflated groups of Gulls can have a harmful impact on all nesting shorebirds. Gulls prey on eggs and baby birds. It’s natural for a few eggs and baby birds to fall prey to a Seagull. However, these large swarms of gulls, attracted by people, can take out entire nesting colonies of birds such as Terns, Plovers and Skimmmers. A large group of Seagulls can also take out an entire nest of hatchling Sea Turtles making their way to the water’s edge.

What to do if you get swarmed?

If you encounter a swarm of aggressive gulls, first, hide all food. Seagulls even know what a potato chip bag looks like! Get all food out of sight. Any food that falls on the ground needs to be picked up or buried under sand. Once all food is away, stand up and slowly start walking towards the birds in an attempt to disburse them. Chasing birds stresses them out, so move slowly and confidently. Do not wave your hands around as they may think you are offering them food. Once the gulls move on you can bring your food back out.

Feeding Gulls – It’s just plain rude!

While feeding Seagulls is not illegal in the state of Florida, it is extremely rude. Gull feeding frenzies are disruptive to beach goers and is inconsiderate to both humans and birds.

On your next trip to the beach, don’t feed Anna Maria Island Seagulls! Don’t just take our word! Read what the University of Florida has to say about feeding wildlife!

Anna Maria Island National Random Acts of Kindness Day

National Random Acts of Kindness Day is a fantastic opportunity to spread love and happiness in your community. Even the smallest of kind gestures can have an impact on the world around you. While visiting Anna Maria Island on February 17th be sure to share and celebrate kindness island style!

National Random Acts of Kindness Day

While kindness is something many practice everyday, here’s some fun and easy suggestions too! Try these out while visiting Anna Maria Island.

Hold the door for someone.
Give a stranger a compliment.
Buy the person in line behind you at the Coffee Haus their morning cup of Joe.
Find a pretty shell and give it to a little kid.
Give up your seat on the trolley to someone.
Make a donation to Wildlife Inc.
Give someone a hug.
While vacationing send your friends a text, and tell them you wish they were with you.
Pick up garbage from the beach.
Go to Rod & Reel Pier and buy a stranger a beer.
Offer to let someone cut you in line at the Publix.
Buy your friend a scratch off ticket just for fun.
Smile at every stranger you see.
Call a family member and tell them you love them.
Tell people you are grateful when they help you.
Give your server at the Sandbar a big fat tip.
Take your family to the beach.
Donate to the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch.
Buy a piece of local art and send it to a friend back home.
Make your spouse breakfast in bed.
Be a good listener.
Tell your kids they are awesome.
Be kind to yourself.
Let go of negative thoughts.
Don’t stereotype people you don’t know.
Take a friend to lunch.
Treat someone to a bike rental and take them on a ride around Anna Maria.
Bring cup cakes to the family in the vacation rental next to yours.
Donate any unopened leftover food in your beach rental before you go back home.
Surprise a loved one with an Anna Maria Island Vacation!
Use #RAKWeek2017 when posting kind words on social media to encourage others to do the same.

Take the challenge

So you think you’re kind? Challenge yourself today, and go out of your way to spread love, understanding and kindness on February 17th! There’s no easier place to practice kindness than on Anna Maria Island.

For more ways to celebrate national random acts of kindness day visit RandomActsof.US

Book your next Anna Maria Island vacation beach rental today with Island Real Estate!

A Perfect Anna Maria Vacation – The Beach Life

A perfect Anna Maria vacation is full of endless sunshine, island activities and pristine beaches. While Anna Maria is small, there are tons of great ways to make your vacation both fun and relaxing. Follow our guide for a perfect stay!

A Perfect Anna Maria Vacation

The city of Anna Maria takes of up the northern tip of the island. Anna Maria is north of the city of Holmes Beach then Bradenton Beach is the southern tip. We encourage you to explore all the island, but you can make a trip of just visiting one of the island’s three cities.

The best Anna Maria vacation rentals for the best stay.

An amazing Anna Maria vacation starts with equally amazing accommodations. On the north end of the island you won’t find many condos. This is the best area to search for those charming beach cottages and single family rentals.

For small groups of four or less we recommend something like Holly Hideaway. This two bed, two bath rental is just a couple short blocks from north end gulf beaches. It also offers a heated pool and welcomes pets up to 25 pounds.

For medium sized groups of 6-8 we would recommend a rental like Rest a Shore. This home not only offers a heated pool and spa, but it’s right on Tampa Bay beaches. This four bedroom home is stylish and spaciously accommodating.

Anna Maria Bay rental — Rest a Shore is a great direct Tampa Bay front beach rental in Anna Maria.

For large groups Grande Haven is an amazing option. This rental is just across the street from coveted Bean Point Beaches and sleeps up to 16 guests. While Grande Haven offers six bedrooms, it also offers a luxury stay with no amenity left out.

Anna Maria Vacations — Grande Haven is the best rental for a Luxury Anna Maria vacation with a large group.

Once you have settled into the perfect Anna Maria vacation rental the fun and relaxation is sure to start.

Anna Maria Restaurants are sure to please.

While visiting you won’t have to go far to find great restaurants in the city of Anna Maria. From breakfast to dinner and high end to quick convenient, you’ll find great eats on the north end of the island.

For breakfast try out Sign of the Mermaid for a more formal sit down meal. They have great morning offerings all in a cute old bungalow. Find Sign of the Mermaid at the corner of Gulf Drive and Palm Avenue. If you want a quick breakfast, try Ginny and Jane’s just a few blocks down the street from Sign of the Mermaid. They have a more casual selection of breakfast items along with specialty coffee drinks.

For Lunch or dinner in Anna Maria we suggest Poppo’s Taqueria for casual Tex-Mex, The Waterfront Restaurant for high-end and Rod & Reel Pier for Seafood. Find Poppo’s on Pine Avenue, and both Waterfront and Rod & Reel on Bay Boulevard.

Great restaurants are a sure way to make a perfect Anna Maria vacation!

Shopping and Sightseeing make fun activities.

The perfect Anna Maria vacation must include shopping and sightseeing. lucky enough for you, there are several places for both on north island. Find boutiques along Pine Avenue with some on Gulf Drive and Bay Boulevard too. Anna Maria doesn’t have chains or big box retailers, so you know island shopping will yield unique finds. For sightseeing you must stop at the Anna Maria Historical society Museum on Pine Avenue, and take a walk on the City Pier. You’ll learn a great deal about the island’s interesting past at the museum. Before bridges connected the island to the main land steam ships would drop visitors off at the City Pier. View the island like the first vacationers did and walk the pier.

Anna Maria Beaches are the best.

Some say that Anna Maria beaches are some of the best on the island, and the West coast of Florida. Bean Point is the very tip of the island where you’ll find more secluded public beaches. There aren’t many parking spaces in this area making these public accesses just a tad harder to reach. the perfect Anna Maria vacation includes day long relaxation on the coast. while listening to the waves crash and the gulls cry you can’t help but relax.

Follow this guide and you are sure to enjoy the perfect Anna Maria vacation!

Anna Maria vacation on the beach — Bean Point make for the perfect Anna Maria vacation~