Travel Guide to Anna Maria Island, Florida

Well you certainly don’t want to miss the gorgeous beaches! Check out Coquina Beach or Bean Point Beach. Grab a beach chair and umbrella and spend all day relaxing and swimming in the crystal blue water. You can also rent kayaks, jet skis or even a boat.

How about a sunset or a dolphin watching cruise? Book a group cruise or your own private charter.

Not a fan of the water? Rent a bicycle and tour the island. You also don’t need a car to get around the island, as most people rent golf carts. However, depending on where you are staying and what you plan to do, you may want to rent a car. Travel about 15 minutes to Brandenton to play a round of golf at the Manatee County Golf Course.

For history buffs, you can check out the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, housed in a 1920s building that was previously an ice house.

If you are like me and love to shop, you will want to hit up Bridge Street and pop into the cute shops to find a souvenir or even a new outfit. Check out Howluckyami, a cute gift shop to grab a quality AMI t-shirt and hear a quick story about their brand.

From there, walk down the street to the Sun and Surf Beach Shop to visit the beautiful parrots that line the front of the store.

Breakfast

• Ginny’s and Jane’s Cafe and Coastal Store: A must! You will think you are in the wrong place when you initially step into a fun gift shop, but head to the back to place your order. You can takeout or eat in. Don’t leave without trying the cinnamon roll...trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

• The Waffle Press: Grab a waffle, waffle sandwich or a smoothie at this walk up window on Pine Street. Try the “grand slam” with peanut butter, chocolate and bananas!

Lunch/Dinner

• Rod and Reel Pier: We always start our vacation with lunch here. A no frills spot at the end of the pier where you must have the grouper sandwich! Every meal we have had has been delicious. An added bonus, they have a full bar with $3 draft beer specials. Is there any other way to kick off your vacay? Whether you drive your car, golf cart, bike or even boat - parking won’t be an issue.

• Sandbar: You will definitely want to plan a dinner here, but come early because they don’t take reservations. Not only will you enjoy a delicious meal and great service, but will have a beautiful sunset. Some tables are even on the beach, allowing you to sink your toes in the sand while you dine.

Dessert

• Two Scoops: Definitely save room for dessert and stop here for the most delicious ice cream on the island!

• Donut Experiment: Whether you want a simple glazed donut or a decked out treat with fruity pebbles, stop in here for a one of a kind dessert. Select your icing, topping (sprinkles, bacon, and Reese’s Pieces are just a few options) and drizzle. Yummy!

Drinks

• The Doctor’s Office: A former doctor’s office turned cocktail bar. Grab a craft cocktail or a delicious meal. Try the “once around the aquarium” famous seafood stew.

• The Freckled Fin Irish Pub: Great Irish pub to grab a pint or a frozen fruity drink. Stay for some live music or catch your favorite game on the TV.