Anna Maria Island may only be a seven-mile compass but make no mistake; there is plenty to discover in this lovely retreat. Surrounded by the exquisite Gulf of Mexico waters, Anna Maria Island expresses the beauty and vibe of the old Florida ambiance. Plus, it is also the home to a plethora of gourmet restaurants and boutiques wherein you can find mouth-watering dishes made of the highest quality ingredients.
Best explored on its Island Trolley, here are the most exciting things to do in Anna Maria Island.
Rent a Bike
Rent a bike and flint around the beautiful beaches of Anna Maria. It is an excellent way of genuinely discovering the Island in all of its glory. With clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, the Anna Maria Island will surely lure you in for a day of sponging up the sunshine.
Stop by at the Bean Point and look for a great spot to watch dolphins splashing about in the water. Or, head to the Coquina Beach at the southern edge of the Island and collect multiple types of seashells.
Interestingly enough, heading to the ocean at night is just as amazing as going during the daytime. Unlike crowded cities, Anna Maria Island provides you with unobstructed views of the star-filled sky when you’re sitting on the sand at night. Bring a towel or blanket and spend time with your loved ones on the beach at night while you look for different constellations.
Check Out Vacation Rentals
Always check rental houses when heading to Anna Maria Island, FL. Vacation rentals are a dime a dozen in the Sunshine State and offer different amenities such as clubhouses, kitchens, laundry facilities, and more. It is also affordable and offers much space compared to hotels in Anna Maria Island FL Vacation Rentals cost as low as $39 to as much as $315 per night.
I think it is excellent if your vacation rental is close to any Rod and Reel Pier restaurant. Dining here can be a lot of fun with many fishes, stingrays, and dolphins splashing back and forth.
Explore Nearby Locations
Situated in the Coast of Manatee County, Anna Maria Island is nestled with popular attractions to take a break, eat, drink, and shop. Stroll around the Historic Bridge Street to check a collection of galleries, souvenir cottages, and restaurants. Drop by at the iconic Bridge Street Pier on a perfect sunny day and grab a cold drink while you go fishing. Alternatively, check the Beach Market at Coquina Beach and talk to the locals. The market is also equipped with talented local artists who sell jewelry, collectibles, pottery, and crafts.
You can also check the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum which houses artifacts and photographs of the first settlers on the Island. Better yet, snap a picture of yourself with the remaining bits of the Old City Jail which was built to accommodate more than 50 thugs who had too much to drink at a local pub in 1927.
