Anna Maria Island Overview

Anna Maria Island is home to three delightful cities, each offering its own unique character and appeal and are easy to explore by foot, bike, golf-buggy or using the free Anna Maria Island trolley.

The city of Anna Maria is located on the northern tip of the island where it is known for its serene atmosphere and Old Florida charm. We recommend a stroll along the beach you'll find at the tip of the island, Bean Point and enjoy breakfast at the Rod n'Reel pier, as well as checking out the variety of local boutique shops and other casual dining spots along Pine Avenue.  Sandbar offers stunning beachfront views whilst you dine for lunch or dinner, whilst The Waterfront offers epic bay views across to the Sunshine Skyway bridge, and if you need something sweet, we recommmend Two Scoops ice cream shop and wandering down to the end of the City Pier for sunset with a scoop (or two!).  If you're feeling something naughty for breakfast - afterall, you are on holiday! - grab some donuts from the Donut Experiment, which offers a host of toppings to add to your freshly made donuts - we recommend the Key Lime Pie!

The city of Holmes Beach is positioned in the center of the island, and is the largest of the three cities offering a blend of residential and commercial areas. Here you'll find Manatee Public Beach, a popular visiting spot with lifeguards, picnic areas, and amenities - why not grab something delicious at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, offering hearty breakfast pancakes and lunchtime sandwiches and wraps to name a few. You'll also find a large Publix grocery store, shops and restaurants nearby, making it a convenient base for visitors meaning you don't have to leave the island if you don't want to!

Lastly, Bradenton Beach, situated at the southern end of Anna Maria Island, is known for its vibrant arts scene, bustling streets, and various waterfront dining options which offers a more lively, tourist-oriented atmosphere. It features Coquina Beach, one of the island's most popular beaches, and the Historic Bridge Street area, where visitors can find restaurants, bars, shops, mini-golf and the Bridge Street Pier.  The Daquiri Deck and the Bridge Street Bistro both offer rooftop decks with views of the Gulf and are not to be missed, and the Beach House restaurant sits on the gulf sands - another perfect spot for a sunset cocktail and fresh, locally caught seafood.

Anna Maria Island, encircled by calm inlet waters and the beautiful, warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, offers a plethora of local flora and fauna to enjoy.  Leffis Key Preserve is a small but picturesque nature reserve located on the southern end of the island, near Coquina Beach. It is a tranquil coastal habitat with well-maintained walking trails and boardwalks that wind through mangroves, salt marshes, and tidal lagoons. The preserve offers stunning views of Sarasota Bay and is a haven for wildlife, including birds, fish, and other marine species. Its elevated observation areas provide ideal spots for birdwatching and photography, so don't forget your camera and binoculars!

May through to October is an exciting time on the island -  it's turtle season!  Sea turtles, primarily loggerheads, return to the island's beaches year after year to nest. Female turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs in the soft sand and volunteers and conservation groups work tirelessly to protect the nests by marking them and ensuring they remain undisturbed. Hatchlings typically emerge around two months later, guided by the moonlight as they make their way to the Gulf of Mexico - time your trip just right and you may be fortunate enough to witness this magical experience.

Anna Maria Island offers more than just a base to enjoy the sea and sunshine.  The friendly locals will make you feel like you're at home in their paradise, and once visited, you'll find every reason to return.