Shopping Anna Maria Island – The island offers a unique shopping experience with fabulous boutiques, art galleries and gorgeous little shops great for finding that perfect memento to remember your trip to Anna Maria Island. The Island does not offer many chain stores or big box retailers giving the shopping experience a one of a kind feel.
Shopping Anna Maria Island
You’ll find access to just about everything you’ll need during your stay including groceries, pharmacies, clothes, swimsuits and beach gear, souvenirs and local art.
Groceries and more
For those from the Southeast you’ll be glad to know there is a Publix supermarket in Holmes Beach along with a CVS and Walgreens drugstore. If you must visit a big box store there is a Kmart on Manatee Avenue just a short trip over the bridge, but most of the things you’ll need can be purchased on island.
Boutique shopping
Independently owned shops pepper the island. Find hots spots located to the North along Pine Avenue, Centrally in Holmes Beach, and Bridge Street to the South. Another great way to explore shopping opportunities stress free is to take advantage of the free trolley. Don’t worry about finding a parking spot or dealing with traffic. The free trolley runs from Pine Avenue down to Coquina Beach with stops all along the way. There are several trolleys making their way around the island. So, typically you won’t have to wait more than 20 minutes for one to pass by. During high season parking can be difficult, so the trolley is worth the wait especially during a laid back island style vacation.
If you are planning on shopping while on Anna Maria Island peruse our vendor listings and blogs. linked below, you;ll find out about all the fabulous places to check out during your stay.
The Sand Dollar is a favorite spot for gorgeous finds located on Holmes Beach.
Have you found the perfect Anna Maria Island vacation rental to complete your perfect paradise getaway? Island Real Estate has an inventory of almost 300 properties to choose from!
Catchin’ Rays is a gorgeous ground level Holmes Beach vacation rental accommodating up to 8 guests. Click on the image to learn more about Catchin’ Rays
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!
This souvenir is a must!
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 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.
Anna Maria Island Sea Salt Florida
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!
An Anna Maria Island Valentines Day is a great way to celebrate a day of love. While Valentines is a special day, Anna Maria Island is romantic any day of the year. Nothing says I love you more than bringing your special someone for a trip to Anna Maria Island.
Anna Maria Island Valentines Day
Here is a list of fun and romantic ideas for an island style Valentines Day.
red heart on sandy sea beach – love relax concept
Breakfast at Sign of the Mermaid
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast from Sign of the Mermaid in Anna Maria. This great restaurant is housed in a 1913 cottage, and offers a charming menu selection.
Romantic Beach Playlist
Here is a great “Romance by the Beach” playlist to enjoy while laying on the beach!
Visit Island Art Galleries
You’ll find a great local art scene on Anna Maria Island with many galleries in Anna Maria and Holmes Beach. Finding a special piece of art is a great Valentines gift that will also remind you of your trip to the island.
Romantic Vacation Rentals
Turn your trip to Anna Maria Island into the vacation of a lifetime with one of these fantastic beach rentals! What’s more romantic than a Florida beach vacation?
Couples Beach Massage
Enjoy a couples beach massage with Sea-Renity beach spa. There is nothing more romantic than getting pampered while on the beach.
Nature Walk at Perico Preserve
Perico Preserve is just a short trip over the Manatee Bridge on the northern side of Manatee Avenue. While there are tons of great nature walks in the county, Perico Preserve is one of the newest. Here you’ll find a diverse shell trail with tons of beautiful wildlife to see.
Private Boat Excursion
While Anna Maria Island has tons of boat charters, paying a little extra for your own private tour is worth it. Among others, Coastline Excursions offers private tours around Anna Maria Island and Egmont Key. They also offer great snorkeling excursions to try out.
Sunset
The sun will be setting on Anna Maria Island at about 6:22pm on February 14th. When you visit Anna Maria Island sunset is a must!
Manatee Players Theater
The Manatee Players will be showing the romantic musical “Bridges of Madison County”. This would make a great date spot! You’ll find the Manatee Performing Arts Center in Downtown Bradenton. When you are done with the show stop by Downtown’s Old Main Street for a great selection of pubs, bars and restaurants.
During your next winter visit you have to try these top five Anna Maria Island January activities! This is a great time of year for a warm Florida vacation as northerners experience the cold, snow and ice.
Top 5 Anna Maria Island January Activities
While January is cool, it’s still a fantastic time of year for a rental on the beach!
Enjoy January on Anna Maria Island!
Mini Golf on Bridge Street
Head over to the Fish Hole Miniature golf course on Bridge Street! A great place for family fun, the Fish Hole is a great cool weather activity. You’ll find 18 holes along this well-kept course. You can feed the beautiful Koi fish, and watch the pond of turtles sunning themselves on their logs. The Fish Hole also offers soda and Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream.
Bella by the Sea Boutique
Check out Bella by the Sea for a unique boutique shopping experience. This great shop offers women’s clothes, jewelry, handbags and more. This is a great place to visit during a January day on island time.
Visit Bella by the Sea Boutique on Pine Avenue.
Star Gazing on the Beach
A clear January night on Anna Maria Island is perfect for star gazing. January 3rd, 2017 is the peak of the Quadrantid Meteor shower, and the Full Moon is on January 12th, 2017. Bundle up and head to the beach for beautiful skies and sounds of the tides. Check out this helpful Star Gazing Guide too!
Cocktails at The Doctor’s Office
You must visit Anna Maria Island’s newest night spot, The Doctor’s Office! Here you’ll find the island’s hottest craft cocktails and delicious chef inspired small plates. The Doctor’s Office is the newest establishment owned by Sean Murphy of the Beach Bistro.
Visit The Doctor’s Office in Holmes Beach.
Bike over the Bridge
Rent a bike or snag one from the new Bike sharing racks, and go for a ride over the Manatee Bridge! You’ll enjoy the fresh bay air, sights of the Skyway and tons of sea birds flying overhead. January is the perfect time for a brisk bike ride.
Anna Maria Island Holiday Gifts are a great way to show your family and friends you love them during the season of giving. Check out our list of the hottest top 10 holiday gifts to pick up on the island. While you’ll not only support local island shops, these gifts are sure to please.
Top 10 Anna Maria Island Holiday Gifts Guide
Forget the fruit cake and seasonal sweaters, get your loved ones something really great! Not only will they love these gifts, but these items will always remind them of time spent on AMI!
Leather Wallets from Salt Air
These ladies leather wallets are super cute! They have several different colors to pick from along with a nice gold detail for $26.95. Pick them up at the Salt Air Boutique in Holmes Beach at 5508 Marina Drive.
Ladies Wallets at Salt Air AMI
Quay Australia Sunglasses from Pink & Navy Boutique
Pink and Navy Boutique is one of the islands trendiest stores offering items for both men and women. Pick up a pair of these super hot Quay Australia sunglasses for a special person in your life. Find the Pink & Navy Store on Pine Avenue in the city of Anna Maria.
Quay Australia Sunglasses with all the most popular styles at Pink & Navy.
Donate to Wildlife Inc. in a Loved Ones Name
This is a fantastic gift idea for that someone who has everything! Wildlife Inc. is an Anna Maria Island based non-profit that rescues and rehabilitates birds and animals. They provide an amazing local service, and will come out to rescue any injured wildlife big, small, sick or even venomous. Wildlife Inc. operates exclusively by donations.
Head over to their website and make a donation. You may even be able to set up a tour of their Bradenton Beach facility for your loved one too.
Donate to Wildlife Inc. in a loved ones name. They’ll think it’s a HOOT!
Face Plant Footsie Slippers at Egrets Nest
The Egrets Nest offers a variety of ladies resort wear, jewelry, children’s gifts and more. Stop by their shop and pick up a pair of these cute Face Plant Footsie slippers. These would be especially great for the ones on your gift list who live in cold weather climates. The Egrets Nest and sister store The White Egret are at the corner of Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive.
Face Plant Footsie Slippers from the Egrets Nest.
Costa Trucker Hats from West Coast Surf Shop
The Trucker Hat has been a popular style with both men and women, and these awesome ones from Costa brand are no exception! They have three different styles of neon to choose from. While visiting West Coast Surf Shop check out their selection of awesome surfer gear, clothes, shoes and more. Find West Coast Surf Shop near the Manatee Public Beach Access in Holmes Beach.
Costa Trucker Hats are super cool for the surfers on your gift list!
Handmade Scarves from Restless Natives
These handmade scarves would make an awesome gift for your friends who love lots of color and a Boho style. Local artist Glenna makes them from recycled silk, and gives them a shaggy look. Check out more fun gift ideas when you visit Restless Natives.
Handmade Boho Silk Scarves at Restless Natives
Schedule an Anna Maria Inshore Fishing Charter with Captain Kyle.
If you live locally, plan on visiting, or will be on AMI for the holiday give your friends a fishing charter. Captain Kyle knows all the best inshore places to catch fish! He offers four or seven hour excursions leaving from the mouth of the Manatee River.
You’re sure to catch dinner when you schedule a charter with Captain Kyle
Gift Cards from The Beach House, Sandbar and Mar Vista Restaurants
Gift Cards are always an easy gift that everyone loves. This is especially true when it comes to the Chiles group of restaurants. When you purchase a holiday gift card of $50 or more you’ll receive a bonus of 25% of the value of the card. Give a gift and get a gift too!
Gift Cards for The Beach House, Sandbar and Mar Vista Restaurants.
Love Rocks at AL’s Studio
These adorable artist made Love Rocks are a fun treasure. Annabel’s gallery offers great works with regularly featured artists. Check out these fun Love Rocks and give the gift of art with a positive message. Find AL’s Studio on Pine Avenue in the city of Anna Maria.
Love Rocks on Anna Maria Island!
Beach Vacation
Surprise your family with a vacation to Anna Maria Island with Island Real Estate! Giving the gift of travel is a great way to make memories and have new experiences too. Nothing brings family and friends closer together than lounging on the beaches of Anna Maria Island! Island Real Estate has the areas largest selection of Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals your family will love!
Here’s a fun idea to try! First plan your stay. Next print out your reservation confirmation and put it in the biggest wrapped box you can find. Everyone at your holiday gathering will get a good laugh when they open it!
Give the Gift of an Anna Maria Island Beach Vacation!
If you are looking for Coffee Shops in Anna Maria Island this list is for you! Grab your morning pick me up and enjoy a caffeinated day on island time!
Top 5 Coffee Shops in Anna Maria Island
This list is organized by location from north to south Anna Maria Island. While there are many places to get coffee, the businesses here are the closest thing you’ll find to a Starbucks-style coffee shop.
The Donut Experiment is a must during a visit to Anna Maria. Not only to they offer made to order donuts, but they have great coffee too! Typically you will find their house blend along with a daily flavored coffee. Also enjoy some of the island’s tastiest espresso based drinks. Find them at 210 Pine Avenue next to Poppo’s Tacos. Open 7am to 1pm daily.
The Donut Experiment is the quintessential coffee and donuts shops.
There are now two Island Coffee Haus locations with one at 317 Pine Avenue and one at 5350 Gulf Drive. These shops have just about everything you would want from a java shop. Find coffees, teas, smoothies and lite breakfast type options such as oatmeal and bagels.
Ginny and Jane E’s is a unique cafe and shop serving breakfast and lunch. Not only can you find coffee and specialty drinks here, but they have beer, wine and Mimosas too. Locals love to grab a coffee and read the paper in front of this cute shop. Find them at 9807 Gulf Drive in the city of Anna Maria.
Find a funky fun atmosphere and an easy quick place to grab coffee too!
Dunkin Donuts
While you won’t find many chain stores and restaurants on Anna Maria Island there is a Dunkin Donuts Baskin Robbins in Holmes Beach. Find it at 3302 East Bay Drive.
Back Alley is a fun coffee shop with local art, jewelry, clothes and gifts. In addition to coffee drinks you’ll find on the go breakfast type items, pie and sandwiches. Back Alley has a great wine and beer selection too. Sit at their cute counter indoors or find a seat outside while you people watch on Bridge Street.
Back Alley Treasures offers local and handmade art and more.
An Anna Maria Island Winter is absolutely wonderful! While temperatures vary, typically you won’t see day time cold weather below 50 degrees Fahrenheit during island winters.
Anna Maria Island Winter Fun Activities
Follow our list of cold weather activities and you’re sure to have a great time for your Anna Maria Island Winter vacation!
Sand Angel and Sand Men too!
We don’t have snow in Florida, but we do have sand. Tons of it! On Anna Maria Island there is over seven miles of powder fine sand coastline ready for you to play in. Instead of the traditional snow angels and snow men try your hand at a sand man or sand angel.
Build a sand man during your Anna Maria Island winter break!
Dining and Shopping
Naturally, when visiting even warm winter climates, you’ll want to have indoor activities. Luckily, Anna Maria Island has tons of great dining and shopping spots! You’ll find shopping and dining spots peppered across the island, but there are a few hubs to keep in mind. Pine Avenue in the City of Anna Maria offers great boutiques and restaurants. The Central city of Holmes Beach has a commercial district at the corner of Marina and Gulf Drive. Then a second spot on East Bay Drive and Manatee Avenue. Bradenton Beach, the southern island city, offers great shopping and dining on Bridge Street.
Beach Combing
Since there are fewer people on the beach in the winter, your chances of finding the best seashells increases. Beach combing is a relaxing pass time. Bundle up with a thick sweater and head out to the beach for some great winter shelling!
Hot Chocolate with an Island Twist
Cold winter months were made for curling up with a blanket and a cup of hot chocolate! This is a great way to relax at an Anna Maria Island beach rental during the cold months. Try this recipe for Toasted Coconut Hot Chocolate and you’ll have an island twist for an old standby.
Kayak Trips
Winter is a lovely time for kayak trips around Anna Maria Island. Since the Gulf may be too cold for your liking, you can still get out and not get wet with a kayak. Often, during winter, you will find the Gulf is flat like glass. This makes kayaking fun, safe and relaxing. You could also head over to the Intracoastal side of the island to find Mangroves and diverse wildlife.
Dolphin Watching
Dolphins are not hard to find around Anna Maria Island. This is especially true when you book a boat tour. Many of the local charter captains know where to find pods of Dolphins jumping and playing around the island. A trip to the island isn’t complete without spotting a dolphin.
Winter Fishing
Fishing is great anytime of year in Florida, and winter is no exception! Head to a pier, or book a fishing charter. Either way you’re sure to catch something good!
Winter Beach Rentals
While visiting Anna Maria Island in the summer is fun, the cooler months still bring a great opportunity to visit the gulf coast. You will find great economy options on beach rentals during the winter. Especially during January, rental prices are at some of their lowest! You won’t have to break the bank to escape the winter snow and ice.
Play Longer Pay Less in the winter! Visit AMI Beach House 4 weeks in January, 2017, and only pay for 3!
Salt a Margarita instead of your driveway!
Don’t spend winter salting your driveway, come to Anna Maria Island and salt a Margarita instead!
This is the ultimate Anna Maria Island Bucket List! There are tons of great activities to enjoy during your visit, however, there are some must dos. Follow this great list and you’ll be sure to have a blast on Anna Maria Island!
The Ultimate Anna Maria Island Bucket List.
The Ultimate Anna Maria Island Bucket List
Visit an Anna Maria Island vacation rental on the beach. – This is the best way to visit Anna Maria Island!
Eat a burger from both Duffy’s and Skinny’s. Locals are divided about the best burger on island, so find out for yourself.
Head over to Cortez Fishing Village for some fresh off the boat seafood. This is one of the countries oldest working fishing villages, and the best local spot for seafood too!
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
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 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.The kitchen at Anna Maria Island vacation rental Neolinda spaciously accommodates 6 guests! Click on the image to learn more about this Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach Vacation rental.SeaShell Sunsets is a gorgeous Holmes Beach, Anna Maria Island vacation rental with a kitchen accommodating 10 guests. Click on the image to learn about SeaShell Sunsets.
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!
Holmes Beach – If you’ve ever been to Anna Maria Island you probably are familiar with the middle island city called Holmes Beach. This island community is the largest of the three island cities with a population of less than 4,000. A quiet coastal Florida town, Holmes Beach is a wonderful place to live and vacation.
1. History
Holmes Beach was at one time dense jungle where it wasn’t uncommon to see Panthers, Rattle Snakes and a variety of Florida wildlife. The middle section of the island was first homesteaded in 1896 by Sam and Annie Cobb. Shortly after the Cobbs moved into their 160 acres they were followed by John R. Jones and Jose Casanas. John piloted boats from Tampa to Cuba, and Jose had moved from the Canary Islands in search of Mullet.
Holmes Beach got it’s name from Jack Holmes who developed 600 acres of the island after World War II. The city became incorporated in 1950.
In 1947 Jack Holmes used a 30 acre space to build an air strip because he believed World War II air pilots would be interested in using it. While the strip was being laid, Jack Holmes was contacted by the movie giant Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer to use the strip to help in producing the film “On An Island With You”. The filming of the movie created great excitement which fueled Jack Holmes development of the Holmes Beach. Eventually the airstrip was removed in 1970, but excitement about Anna Maria Island has never waned.
Today the island’s middle city is a quiet and bustling town welcoming thousands of visitors every year with pristine beaches and beautiful vacation rentals.
Two gentlemen on the Holmes Beach Air Strip.
2. Beaches
Holmes Beach offers approximately three miles of powder sand Gulf of Mexico beaches peppered with public accesses and beach front homes. Where Manatee Avenue/State Road 64 comes to an end is where you’ll find the most popular beach area in Holmes Beach called Manatee Public Beach access. Manatee Public Beach offers tons of fabulous amenities including life guards, public restrooms and changing facilities, showers, a playground, volley ball courts, picnic areas, trolley stops, tons of parking and gorgeous tall Australian Pines that the island is known for. You’ll also find concessions at the AMI Beach Cafe along with Florida’s oldest Surf Shop.
Heading north or south from Manatee Public Beach you’ll find plenty of smaller beach accesses many of which offer public parking.
Holmes Beach offers powder fine sand and clear blue Gulf of Mexico water.
3. Restaurants
Holmes Beach offers no shortage of great places to enjoy a meal and a cold drink. From laid back to fine dining, and breakfast to dinner you’re sure to find a delicious place to eat in the middle of Anna Maria Island. In the center of the island you will also find the local chain grocery store Publix along with CVS and Walgreens Pharmacies. Click on the links below for information.
AMI Beach Cafe on Holmes Beach offers a full service restaurant right on the sand!
4. Shopping
Anna Maria Island offers great boutiques, art galleries and small shops perfect for finding a one of a kind souvenir. With no big box retailers the shopping experience is truly unique on Anna Maria Island.
There are great independent shops and boutiques in Holmes Beach.
5. Events
Holmes Beach offers many fun events throughout the year including Spring Fest, Winter Fest, The Halloween Trail of Treats, and Art Walks.
Holmes Beach hosts several fun events through the year including Spring Fest.
6. Activities
In the middle island city you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained. In addition to beautiful beaches, you’ll find The Island Branch Library on Marina Drive along with the baseball field, shuffle board courts, skate park, the city play ground and the dog park.
While visiting Anna Maria Island, vacationers like to rent many different types of equipment to enhance their stay including bikes, kayaks, paddle boards and more. When looking for equipment rentals there are several options including Just 4 Fun, Island Scooter Rentals, Fun and More and AMI Beach Fun Rentals.
Many of the Equipment Rental companies in Holmes Beach will deliver items directly to you!
Holmes Beach Vacation Rentals and Accommodations
Island Real Estate offers almost 200 vacation rental homes in Holmes Beach. Whether you are looking to accommodate a couples getaway, or a family beach holiday, Island Real Estate has the perfect accommodations.
Holmes Beach vacation rental Island Pearl offers 4 bedrooms to accommodate up to 8 guests. Click on the image above to learn more about Island Pearl.
Bradenton Beach – Traveling to the southern portion of Anna Maria Island brings you into the quiet bustling city of Bradenton Beach. This area of the island also offers miles of public beaches with parking, Historic Bridge Street for sightseeing and shopping, and great dining opportunities with both family fun and a nightlife. Read on to learn six things you might not know about Bradenton Beach.
1. History
Originally called Cortez Beach for its proximity to the fishing village of Cortez, the area became Bradenton Beach during the 1920’s land boom. It’s believed that inland developers gave it the name Bradenton Beach, so potential buyers would think the Beach and the city of Bradenton were next to each other rather than seperated by Cortez Fishing Village and Palma Sola. The city was incorporated in 1953.
Bradenton Beach’s Historic Bridge Street Pier is the site of the original, and first bridge connecting the island to the mainland. The first Bridge was wooden, and built in 1922. By the 1940’s the Bridge became rickety with wind and waves making the structure sway. It’s said that when cars went over the old bridge the wooden boards would bounce making a banging noise like a shot gun (Norwood 181). A new bridge was built in 1957 making access to the island much safer and easier.
The Historic Bridge Street Pier, now a days, offers excellent fishing, sightseeing over Sarasota Bay, a delicious restaurant with a view, shops and public day docks.
The First Bridge to Anna Maria Island built in 1922.
2. Sightseeing and Activities
There are also many beautiful places to sightsee on Bradenton Beach including the Bradenton Beach City Pier, quaint Bridge Street, Coquina Beach bike path and Leffis Key. Rent a segway from Bridge Street rental company Segs by the Sea, and cruise around the city with ease.
When looking for activities on Bradenton Beach enjoy miniature golf on Bridge Street, or head over to the Tingley Memorial Library. This unique library is independent of the Manatee County Library system, and offers annual memberships for $4.
When visiting the island, especially during high season, you may want to consider using the free trolley to get around. Parking is limited in busy areas of the island, and battling traffic does not lend to a relaxing paradise getaway. The free trolley runs usually every 20 minutes taking you along almost the entire island.
There are great sightseeing opportunities in Bradenton Beach like this view of Sarasota Bay and the Cortez Bridge seen from Leffis Key.
3. Beaches
Bradenton Beach offers about a three mile strip of public beach with parking along the Gulf of Mexico. Many of these beach areas offer public parking making it a popular place for enjoying the shore on Anna Maria Island. To the far south is Coquina Beach with restrooms, concessions, showers, parking, picnic tables, walking path, playground, and life guards. Heading north through Bradenton Beach along the gulf brings you to Cortez Beach. Cortez Beach does not offer the same amenities, but does have plenty of parking, and an old Florida beach feel. There are three erosion groins located in an area locals call “Three Piers” this area separates Coquina and Cortez Beach, and is said to be a great surfing spot.
Coquina Beach is the southern most gulf beach on Anna Maria Island. In the background of this image you can see the 2015/2016 construction of the new erosion groins to keep south end beaches intact.
4. Events and Markets
Bradenton Beach offers one seasonal market perfect for finding local made items, art, gifts and produce. Happening on Sunday, The Coquina Beach Market is a great way to enjoy the island on a Sunday Funday Morning.
Coquina Beach Market
5. Shopping
In addition to the fabulous Seasonal Markets there are great little shops in Bradenton beach offering swim wear, beach gear, home items, art, jewelry, gifts and more. Find out about Shopping on Anna Maria Island here.
There are great shops on Bridge Street like Back Alley where you can find local made and hand made art, jewelry, gifts and refreshments. Photo Credit: Back Alley Facebook Page.
6. Dining
On the south end of Anna Maria Island you’ll find some really fabulous Restaurants. Find any type of dining experiences for all meals of the day, casual or fine dining, and dining with a beach or bay view. You’ll even find a few places open late on Bridge Street if you are looking for a little night life. Click on the links below for suggestions.
The Bridge Tender restaurant offers great food with a beautiful view of Sarasota Bay and the Bradenton Beach City Pier.
Now that you know these six tips, enjoy your Bradenton Beach vacation like a local!
Bradenton Beach Accommodations
Looking for the perfect Anna Maria Island vacation accommodations on south end? Island Real Estate almost 300 great rentals across the island!
The Bay View Inn is a 4 unit complex two blocks from Bridge Street, and just a short walk to both gulf and bay side Bradenton Beach. These 1 Bedroom units sleep 4 guests and were updated and redecorated in late 2015. Click on the image to see these adorable island style rentals.
Works Cited:
Norwood, Carolyne. Anna Maria Island 1940-1970 Tales of Three Cities from Bean Point to Bridge Street. Anna Maria Island: Anna Maria Island Historical Society. 2010.
