Larry - Island Real Estate Blog

June 29, 2021March 12, 2024

Anna Maria Island Wind Insurance Tips

Florida is offering a FREE service to assist single family home owners with reducing your Anna Maria Island wind insurance. The impact can be significant for communities like Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key.

It’s easy… get your wind insurance policy handy and go to web site to sign up for a free inspection. A wind mitigation inspector will visit your Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key single family home for free and give you suggestions on improvements that will save money on your Anna Maria Island wind insurance. Sure…you might get lucky and find that your investment home is already eligible for reductions WITHOUT any capital improvements.

My Safe Florida can be reached toll free within Florida at (866) 513-6734 or visit their web site where you can fill out an electronic request. You only need a few minutes to save potentially a few hundred dollars.

Note: If you need help finding your next investment property be sure to call us toll free at (877) 778 6066 or visit our web site for more Real Estate Sales information at https://www.islandreal.com/

Larry

Meet Larry Chatt. Larry is the Broker/Owner of Island Real Estate – and has owned Anna Maria Island investment property while residing in New England, Ohio, Colorado, Iowa and across Europe. He and his family have been on the island for decades and Larry has served his community in various roles with the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce

May 15, 2021March 12, 2024

Manatee Public Beach on Anna Maria Island

Sorry! The Playground has been removed. As of 2024 no playground can be found on the beach.

Manatee Public Beach is located in Holmes Beach where Manatee Avenue runs right into the Gulf of Mexico. Manatee Public Beach has free parking, picnic tables, volleyball nets, public restrooms, a café right on the beach with food and drinks, and a lifeguard on duty.

The playground is directly on the beach and contains swings, a wall to climb, ladder, a larger straight slide as well as two toddler slides, and the normal accessories most modular playgrounds offer. This playground can be busy all week long as mainland locals use this playground very often as well as families that want a combined day at the beach and playground. There are a few benches that parents can use to sit and relax however an inexpensive beach chair located close to the playground can work best.

For a bite to eat try out Cafe on the beach, located at the public beach to get drinks and hot dog meals etc. There is also a small gift shop located at the Manatee Public Beach.

Larry

February 22, 2021June 3, 2024

Chipotle Mexican Grill Is Quick, Fresh and Cheap – Mexican

Chipotle is a national chain however Anna Maria Island is lucky enough to have one in Bradenton, Fl. Chipotle is the Subway of Mexican. Just on Cortez Chipotle is only a 15 minute drive from Anna Maria Island. If you are looking for an inexpensive, healthy, quick bite to eat for lunch of dinner then look no further. In the same plaza as Lowes, Dicks and Best Buy there is plenty to do before or after eating.

You walk in to Chipotle to an industrial atmosphere that is very simple but comfortable. Walk up the glass domed bar and order up your favorite burrito. They serve vegetarian, Pork, Chicken or steak. Most of the dishes are served with a soft tortilla however you can take it “naked.” They put everything in a dish and you eat it like a salad. Choose your meat then grab black beans, pinto beans, grilled onions, grilled peppers, fantastic white long rice with what appears to be Cilantro mixed in with sour cream, cheeses, and three salsas to choose from. Mild, Medium, or hot. I love the medium because it is a corn salsa and really hits the spot. Don’t forget to grab a bag of nachos with some salsa, guacamole or sour cream or what the heck, your on vacation – all three! They have a fountain drink machine or plenty of specialty soda’s to choose from. Most can eat for less than $10 and you are in and out within a half an hour.

My favorite is a Carnita – Buritto bowl. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. Take a look at the picture supplied, it is most of the menu.

Chipotle
1608 Cortez Road W
Bradenton, FL, 34209
(941) 752-0425
(941) 758-5926 Fax

Chipotle – Sarasota
97 N. Cattlemen Road
Sarasota, FL 34243
(941) 359-6757
(941) 355-8728 Fax

Need to drive in to Sarasota – No worries there are a few Chipotle Mexican Grill’s in Sarasota, too. Just a 20-30 minute drive from Anna Maria Island.

Larry

November 24, 2020January 2, 2021

Historic City Pier Anna Maria – Take A Stroll on Tampa Bay

The Anna Maria City Pier has been a huge attraction for over 100 years. Visitors always love coming out, walking the pier, watching fishermen and grabbing a bite to eat or a drink at the restaurant that sat at the end of the Pier.

However, that all came to a stop in 2017 when the Pier was damaged by Hurricane Irma. The Pier had to be closed, completely demolished, and re-built. Luckily, all the hard work has come to an end, and as of 2020 the City Pier has re-opened as close to the original Pier that stood here before as possible. Soon the City Pier Grill & Bait Shop will open!

City Pier Anna Maria is a Historical Site

The sign at the entrance of the City Pier Anna Maria says it all. “The Anna Maria Development Company built this pier and wharf in 1911-1912 to provide dockage for ships from St. Petersburg and Tampa”. It has since withstood hurricanes and lesser storms, too numerous to mention. Although, parts were damaged by storms in 1918, 1935, 1974, 1988, and 2017. Over the years it has nurtured the hopes of fisherman and the dreams of lovers. It has provided roosts for pelicans and other sea birds, and has also been a friend to residents and visitors alike.

Larry

November 21, 2020November 7, 2022

Skinny’s Place Is the Great Greasy Spoon of Anna Maria Island

Skinny’s Place, Circa 1952, is quite the little burger joint that all the locals on Anna Maria Island love. The prices are great, and the food is made to order

What Makes Skinny’s Place So Great?

They offer giant burgers and homemade onion rings that are dipped in a wonderful batter that is always crispy and delicious. Whether you are just out for a drive or if you are visiting the beaches of Anna Maria for the day, it is a wonderfully rustic place to visit. Call in your order and swing by to pick it up.

This is a come as you are place, not a fancy night out on Anna Maria island, Holmes Beach. That is why it is great for people who have children as well. Drink selections go from draft beer to old fashioned soda in the bottle. Often have beer specials for $1 – $1.50 per glass.

Skinny’s was even featured in Southern Living Magazine back in 2011.
“Janice and Carl “Skinny” Freeman fell in love with this remote patch of sand on their honeymoon in the 1930s. Today, the screened-in watering hole on ANNA MARIA ISLAND dishes scrumptious burgers- their trick is seasoning the grill- and beer in frosted mugs under walls packed with family photos. You can still find the 94 – year – old Janice sweeping behind the bar and hear stories of Old Florida from charming regulars.”
– Southern Living Magazine

They do not accept credit cards so remember to bring some cash!

Skinny’s is located in Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island across the street from the Manatee Public beach and cafe. Many beach goers walk across Gulf Drive and get a few cold one’s at Skinny’s as well as a hamburger.

Address: 3901 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Phone: (941) 778-7769
Hours: Closed Monday, Open Tuesday through Sunday 11am – 8pm

Larry

November 14, 2020January 22, 2021

D Coy Ducks Bar and Music in Holmes Beach Fl

D Coy Ducks in Holmes Beach is where you can find most locals on a Friday or Saturday night. This laid-back bar is a popular hangout spot and a great place to grab a beer and listen to live music. Whether its 10:30am or 2:30am, Ducks will be ready to serve you a cold adult beverage.

That’s right, this dive bar is open everyday of the week from 10:30am until 2:30am. They are also a non-smoking establishment, so don’t worry about second-hand smoke.

D Coy’s offers a full liquor bar, cold beers, and nightly entertainment. They do not have a food menu yet customers are allowed to bring snacks or have dinner delivered from one of the nearby restaurants.

If you are looking for some late night company and flavor on your Anna Maria Island Vacation, you can find it here any night of the week, or you can stop in early for a drink on your way to the beach, whatever makes you happy.

Larry

October 1, 2020January 22, 2021

The BEST Little Coffee Haus in Holmes Beach – CLOSED

Unfortunately, as of December 2020 the Island Coffee Haus has Permanently Closed

There might not be a Starbucks on Anna Maria Island, but that surely doesn’t mean you’re out of luck when it comes to grabbing a quick cup of Joe. Just head over to the Island Coffee Haus in Holmes Beach. This cute little coffee shop offers coffee, tea, pastries, and more!

Island Coffee Haus opened its doors for the first time back in 2012, and is open for business every day from 8am – 4pm. They also offer free WIFI.

On the menu here for beverages there are coffees, teas, smoothies, and fresh pressed green juice. And if you want a bite to eat to go with your drink, they offer pastries along with breakfast sandwiches, oatmeal, and bagels. While you wait for the friendly staff to prepare your drink or snack, check out the merchandise they sell! Great locally made art, jewelry, signs, and more.

Island Coffee Haus (Located in the same space as Scott’s Deli)
5350 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
(941) 896-4870

Larry

September 19, 2020September 22, 2021

Peach’s Restaurant in Holmes Beach – Laid Back, Homestyle Breakfast Food

Serving Fresh & Delicious
Breakfast and Lunch since 1985
Peach’s Cafe is the kind of place you want to linger in, long after the meal is done.
Stop by and enjoy breakfast & lunch creations in a setting that exudes warmth and friendly service, time after time.

For a good homestyle breakfast, that won’t break the bank, check out Peach’s off East Bay Drive in Holmes Beach. They are open early (6am), and close after lunch (2:30pm). There is nothing fancy about Peach’s, which is why so many people like it. It’s a nice laid back spot with friendly staff.

Peach’s Restaurant is actually a small chain restaurant, with 6 locations, all in the local area. Everything on the menu is served all day. So if you want a burger at 8am, go for it! Pancakes for lunch? No problem.
Speaking about the menu, here’s what you can expect. They have all the classic breakfast items, like omelets, benedicts, pancakes, waffles, etc. Then they have dishes like Biscuits & Gravy, a Breakfast Burrito, and Chicken Fried Steak n Eggs. There are quite a few things to choose from.

https://www.restaurantji.com/fl/holmes-beach/peachs-holmes-beach-/

Peach’s Restaurant
3240 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
(941) 779-0738

Larry

April 25, 2020December 11, 2020

Your Guide to Shelling on Anna Maria Island Beaches!

It is storming on the island today. The kind of storm where the rain seems to be falling horizontally and the palms sway with such exuberance that you think they may snap. That is great news for anyone who is interested in shelling on any of Anna Maria Island beaches.

During a storm the wind and wave action can wash up all sorts of treasures. From fossils and bits of coral to some of the more rare specimens. The longer the period of time between storms, the more will wash up. When the waters are calm the shells accumulate on the edges of the sandbars. A good ole tropical storm will break up even the most dense aggregate and send them toward shore. If you walk the beaches hours, even a day, after a good storm you are in for a treat. More than likely you will wander across little hills of shells scattered on the sand. Spend some time gently sifting through the collection. Some of the best finds are at the very bottom!

The tide plays a significant roll in the amount of shells to be found on any given beach as well. You will often find more shells 2-3 hours prior to low tide or an hour or so after. You can access a simple tide chart for Anna Maria Island here. If you want to get really technical, the shelling may be even better if you can go the days closest to the full moon. With the full moon comes the increased gravitational pull that can cause tidal extremes. With those extremes comes the shells that are normally still under water.

Don’t be afraid to do the shell shuffle! I have made some of my greatest finds that way. Stand in the water at about waist high and slowly, gently dig around with your toes in the sand. Proceed with caution, some may be sharp!

While enjoying the bounty the ocean has provided, make sure you do your part to protect it. Any garbage is detrimental to the delicate ecosystem of our oceans. Bring two bags, one for shells and one for litter. Sometimes the litter can be its own treasure. You can make a game of it, like a trash treasure hunt. If you want to get really creative make a scavenger hunt list for each member of the shelling group and the winner gets a triple scoop of ice cream from any of Anna Maria Islands fabulous ice cream shops!

You will find shells on any of Anna Maria Islands fabulous beaches. Most people you ask will have their favorite spot. My personal favorite is the path less traveled, Bean Point on the northern part of the island. If you opt to stay in one of the Anna Maria Island waterfront rentals your favorite spot just may be your ‘front yard’. Happy Shelling!

Larry

Sorry! The Playground has been removed. As of 2024 no playground can be found on the beach.

City Pier Anna Maria is a Historical Site

What Makes Skinny’s Place So Great?

Address: 3901 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217Phone: (941) 778-7769Hours: Closed Monday, Open Tuesday through Sunday 11am – 8pm

Unfortunately, as of December 2020 the Island Coffee Haus has Permanently Closed

Address: 3901 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Phone: (941) 778-7769
Hours: Closed Monday, Open Tuesday through Sunday 11am – 8pm