With its picturesque beaches, charming cottages, and small-town vibes, a trip to this Gulf Coast barrier island feels like a step back in time. From kayaking through mangroves to building epic sandcastles, Anna Maria Island serves up experiences to thrill every traveler.
- Soak Up The Quintessential Old Florida Charm Of Anna Maria Island
- Top 10 Things To Do On Anna Maria Island’s Beaches
- 1. Hunt For Seashells Along The Shoreline
- 2. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding In The Calm Gulf Waters
- 3. Lounge Blissfully During A Beach Picnic Spread
- 4. Splash And Play In The Shallows With Kids
- 5. Join A Beach Yoga Or Fitness Class
- 6. Start A Friendly Beach Volleyball Match
- 7. Try Parasailing For A Thrilling High-Flying Perspective
- 8. Splash & Play In Designated Swim Zones With Kids
- 9. Master Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga For A Challenge
- 10. Toast Dazzling Sunsets Together From The Sand
Soak Up The Quintessential Old Florida Charm Of Anna Maria Island
Just 7 miles long, this slender strip of land amazes with its remote tranquility despite sitting just an hour from Tampa and Sarasota airports. As the northernmost of a trio of barrier islands, it retains an authentic retro beach town atmosphere. Placid Gulf waves lap at white-sand beaches framed by swaying palms and cottages in candy colors.
Location Sets The Stage For Serene Seaside Bliss
Technically part of Manatee County, Anna Maria Island’s three towns of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach each flaunt their personalities. But all exude laid-back warmth ideal for families and couples seeking hassle-free seaside bliss. Base yourself in an Anna Maria vacation rental and bike or stroll between beloved businesses around town.
When To Visit Anna Maria Island For Ideal Conditions
Since sitting on Florida’s central Gulf Coast, Anna Maria Island enjoys subtropical year-round warmth making most months amenable to fun. However, late spring and early fall see fewer crowds and insects. Summer brings glorious beach weather but intense midday heat with scattered thunderstorms. Budget winter travel spikes occupancy, yet the weather stays pleasant.
Top 10 Things To Do On Anna Maria Island’s Beaches
It’s impossible to tire of the options when playing in Anna Maria Island’s powdery sand and tranquil turquoise waters. Let’s explore the top 10 beach activities that never fail to entertain.
1. Hunt For Seashells Along The Shoreline
Comb Anna Maria’s beaches to amass an impressive stash of shells to take home. Prime spots include Bean Point, Bradenton Beach, and Coquina Beach where waves deposit a diverse array of shapes and sizes. Make a beach craft by using large finds for cup holders or decorations.
2. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding In The Calm Gulf Waters
Rent a stand-up paddleboard from a local shop to experience Anna Maria’s scenery at water level. Gentle Gulf waves prove beginner-friendly as you find your balance standing atop the wide boards. Migration charters offer sunrise paddle tours ideal for wildlife viewing.
3. Lounge Blissfully During A Beach Picnic Spread
Pack a beach basket from your Anna Maria Island vacation rental full of snacks and chilled beverages. Find a pleasant spot in the sand and set up camp beneath a beach umbrella if desired. Spend hours nibbling while reading a book and people-watching for ultimate relaxation.
4. Splash And Play In The Shallows With Kids
Anna Maria Island’s beaches provide safe wading areas perfect for families thanks to gradual slopes and mellow waves. Tote along sand toys like shovels, buckets, water blasters or foam noodles to combat boredom. Build epic castles then decorate with gathered shells and seaweed.
5. Join A Beach Yoga Or Fitness Class
Many Anna Maria Island instructors lead early morning yoga sessions right in the sand. Or join a class combining cardio moves with strength training using your body weight. Feel the breeze while getting your sweat on makes these beach workouts extra rejuvenating.
6. Start A Friendly Beach Volleyball Match
Pack an inflatable volleyball set or use your cabin rental’s supply. Head down near the water’s edge at Coquina Beach where crowds often set up nets. Politely ask to join existing games or start one between your crew for giggles and team bonding opportunities.
7. Try Parasailing For A Thrilling High-Flying Perspective
Strap into a tandem parasail harness hooked to a motorboat to soar up to 450 feet high overlooking Anna Maria Island! Spectacular panoramas stretch from Egmont Key to Longboat Key during this adrenaline-inducing experience suitable for ages 5+.
8. Splash & Play In Designated Swim Zones With Kids
Several Anna Maria Island beaches feature designated swim zones perfect for families with groms. Stake out an area close by to easily watch youngsters bobbing about in inner tubes or practicing their cannonballs. Join in the fun yourself! Then rinse off under a handy foot shower.
9. Master Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga For A Challenge
For ocean lovers keen to test their balance, stand-up paddleboard yoga provides a super fun yet difficult workout. Local Anna Maria Island instructors teach proper form during beginner-friendly sessions. Expect a few spills until core strength improves allowing advanced poses.
10. Toast Dazzling Sunsets Together From The Sand
Sunsets on the island never fail to impress with unobstructed views westward over the Gulf’s glittering waters. Spread out a beach blanket to relax sipping wine as the golden orb sinks below the horizon. Bean Point and the Manatee Public Beach allow stellar vantage points any season.