One of the things that stand out when visiting Anna Maria Island is the lack of high-rise hotels and chain restaurants. Instead, visitors will find an abundance of locally owned businesses, from ice cream shops and boutiques to seafood restaurants and art galleries. This gives the island a unique, welcoming atmosphere that is hard to find in more heavily developed tourist destinations.
The island is divided into three separate areas: Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. Anna Maria is the northernmost part of the island and is the quietest and most residential. Here, visitors will find cozy vacation rentals and cute bungalows, all within walking distance of the beach. Holmes Beach is the largest of the three areas and has a bit more of a commercial feel. Visitors will find a wider selection of restaurants and shops, as well as a marina and the Manatee Public Beach, which is a popular spot for families. Bradenton Beach is the southernmost part of the island and is home to the Historic Bridge Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as the Bradenton Beach City Pier.
One of the main attractions of Anna Maria Island is its beaches, which are among the most beautiful in Florida. The island has seven miles of pristine, white-sand beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and shelling. The waters of the Gulf of Mexico are warm and clear, making it an ideal destination for water activities such as fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. There are also several beachside parks, including Coquina Beach, which has picnic tables, grills, and a playground.
Another popular activity on the island is biking. With its flat terrain and scenic views, biking is a great way to explore the island. Visitors can rent bikes from several local rental shops and pedal along the island’s main road, Gulf Drive. Along the way, they will see quaint shops and restaurants, as well as stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
For those who want to learn more about the history and culture of Anna Maria Island, there are several museums and historic sites worth visiting. The Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum is located in Anna Maria and features exhibits on the island’s history and development. The Historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach is another popular spot, with historic buildings and a fishing pier.
Finally, no visit to Anna Maria Island would be complete without trying the local seafood. The island has an abundance of seafood restaurants, serving everything from grouper sandwiches to clam chowder. The Sandbar Restaurant, located on the beach in Anna Maria, is a popular spot for fresh seafood and has a great view of the sunset.
