Anna Maria Island Travel Guide

Must-Try Restaurants

• Beach Bistro

  One of the highest-rated restaurants in the USA with a 4.9 Zagat rating. This upscale waterfront spot offers expertly prepared seafood and hosts nightly sunset celebrations. Don't miss their signature lobster dishes and fresh grouper preparations.

• The Waterfront Restaurant

  A local favorite known for exceptional seafood and a cozy waterfront atmosphere. Their blackened grouper sandwich is legendary, and the shrimp and grits come highly recommended.

• The Porch Restaurant

  A scratch kitchen featuring quality ingredients transformed into masterpieces. Try their Harvest Salad or Ribeye Sandwich, and don't miss happy hour from 2-3pm and 4-5pm with 50% off wine.

• Hurricane Hanks

  Located in Holmes Beach, this beloved local gem offers scratch-made dishes including their famous bacon-wrapped specialties and fresh grouper options.

• Gulf Drive Cafe & Kokonut Hut Tiki Bar

  Dine with your feet in the sand while enjoying huge breakfast omelets and spectacular sunset views. The rum runners at Kokonut Hut are particularly popular.

• The Sandbar Restaurant

  A beachfront spot perfect for sipping mango piña coladas with your toes in the sand. Their fresh ceviche pairs beautifully with sunset views.

Casual & Quick Bites

• Poppo's Taqueria

  Located on Pine Avenue, offering insanely good burritos and tacos in a Caribbean beach shack atmosphere. Better than Chipotle and perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

• Wicked Cantina

  Fresh Mexican cuisine with creative flavors, excellent margaritas, and a lively island atmosphere. Great for casual dining with friends and family.

• Pizza Social

  Delicious artisan pizzas with fresh toppings and creative combinations. Perfect for a casual meal or takeout to enjoy at the beach.

• Donut Experiment

  Not your average donuts! Customize your own with different toppings and fillings. The chocolate candy bar donut is a local favorite.

• North Shore Cafe

  Perfect for coffee and brunch near Pine Avenue. Amazing coffee, delicious breakfast, and acai bowls, with charming outdoor seating by the canals.

• Anna Maria Oyster Bar

  Located on Bridge Street Pier with awesome waterfront views. Fresh oysters, tasty grouper, and outstanding Baja fish tacos in a casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere.

Nearby Dining

• Star Fish Company(Cortez)

  A hidden gem seafood market in nearby Cortez. This cash-only spot offers incredibly fresh fish at wholesale prices, served overlooking Sarasota Bay. The blackened grouper is a must-try.

• Tide Tables(Cortez)

  Located in the charming fishing village of Cortez, offering fresh seafood and waterfront dining with authentic Old Florida atmosphere.

• Shore

  Upscale coastal dining featuring creative American cuisine with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and an elegant atmosphere.

• Whitney's

  Fine dining experience offering exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and a sophisticated ambiance perfect for special occasions.

• Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant(Longboat Key)

  Set in an early 1900s fisherman's house next to the pier, this stunning waterfront spot offers signature dishes like spicy shrimp with french fries. Dine inside with modern old-Florida style or outside surrounded by mangroves.

Pine Avenue (Anna Maria)

Known as the 'Greenest Little Main Street in America,' Pine Avenue is the heartbeat of island shopping with pastel-colored cottages converted into delightful boutiques.

• The White Egret - Chic coastal-inspired clothing and accessories perfect for beachside dinners or leisurely strolls. Friendly staff provides attentive, personalized service.
• Pink & Navy - Vibrant clothing, jewelry, and home décor that captures island vibes. Features flowy sundresses and locally made artwork.
• Island Cabana - Elegant beachwear and coastal-inspired accessories including beautiful women's clothing, jewelry, home décor, and resort wear.
• Shiny Fish Emporium - Family-owned shop known for hand-painted sand dollars, children's clothing, toys, handmade jewelry, and unique home décor.
• Beach Blossom Studio - Local artist Kristen's exclusive collection of beach-inspired jewelry, clothing, home decor, and accessories. Also has a location on Bridge Street.
• Cove - Stylish boutique with modern beachwear, accessories, and coastal home decor. Clean, minimalist aesthetic with high-quality finds.
• Island Sip and Shop - One-stop shop for clothing, swimsuits, sundries, and fresh coconut drinks from AMI Coconuts.
• Anna Maria General Store - Stock up on household goods, snacks, and vacation essentials.

Holmes Beach (Central Island)

The most practical and diverse shopping district, perfect for both essentials and indulgences.

• The Sand Dollar Gift Shop - Beautiful collection of coastal home décor, unique gifts, and beach-inspired accessories.
• Island Bazaar - Comprehensive beachwear selection for the whole family, featuring brands like Costa, Reef, Maui Jim, and Salt Life.
• AMI Outfitters - Outdoor activities and watersports gear, including fly-fishing equipment and sustainable clothing made from organic cotton or bamboo with sun protection.
• Pineapple Marketplace - About thirty vendors offering clothes, jewelry, wine, house decor, toys, pet stuff, and more. A must-stop destination with something for everyone.

Bridge Street (Bradenton Beach)

Historic charm meets modern beach-town vibes on this walkable strip perfect for evening strolls.

• Bridge Street Bazaar - Complete bohemian and beach-related items from greeting cards to t-shirts, sand dollars, sunscreen, and bathing suits.
• Island Charms - Handcrafted jewelry, fashion accessories, Italian pottery, and hand-blown glass. Learn about island history and culture while browsing.
• Bridge Street Interiors - Stylish home décor and coastal accessories for every budget.
• Back Alley Treasures - Quirky mix of coffee, art, and handmade island crafts.

Markets

• Coquina Beach Market - Shop local artists, arts and crafts, fresh produce, and homemade jewelry while overlooking beautiful white-sand beach. Find gourmet foods, local art, spices, teas, honey, pottery, health products, and woodworking.

Gyms & Fitness Centers

• CrossFit Anna Maria

  High-intensity functional fitness training with experienced coaches. Offering group classes, personal training, and a supportive community atmosphere. Perfect for those looking for challenging workouts and expert coaching.

• AMI Health & Fitness

  Anna Maria Island's premier full-service fitness center, open 24 hours with keycard access. Recently rebuilt with top-tier equipment including cardio machines, strength training equipment, free weights, and circuit training. Offers group fitness classes (yoga, Pilates, Zumba) and personal training. Weekly memberships available for vacationers ($60/week). Located at 5364 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.

• The Center of Anna Maria Island

  Community hub offering comprehensive fitness programs including cardio center, weight room, stretch and mobility area, specialty fitness classes, yoga, strength training, and boot camps. Also features basketball courts, tennis, and pickleball. Family-friendly with a welcoming atmosphere. Located at 407 Magnolia Avenue, Anna Maria.

• Island Fitness

  Offers daily to monthly memberships with personal training, group fitness classes, indoor cycling, selectorized circuit equipment, cardio equipment, and free weights. 24-hour access available for members.

Yoga & Wellness

• Island Yoga Space

  Serene upstairs studio directly across from the Gulf of Mexico at 9805 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Offers daily classes including Vinyasa Flow, Restorative Yoga, Gentle Yin Yoga, SUP Yoga, and Meditation. Weekend beach yoga classes and workshops also available. Perfect for all levels in a tranquil, unique setting.

• Beach Yoga Classes

  Pop-up yoga and functional training classes often held right on the beach. Check local schedules for times and locations.

• Aluna Wellness Center & Spa

  Holistic wellness services for relaxation and rejuvenation after an active day.

Parks & Recreation Areas

• Anna Maria Bayfront Park

  Four-acre park on the island's northern tip with grassy areas for games, playground, beach, picnic tables and grills, pavilions, and outdoor showers. Open sunrise to 10pm with stunning views of Tampa Bay and Skyway Bridge. Perfect for family picnics and sunset viewing. Available for wedding rentals with special event permit.

• Manatee Beach Park

  The main public beach park in Holmes Beach with beach-ready wheelchairs (first come, first served), kayak and paddleboard rentals, chair and umbrella rentals, and the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe. Perfect neighborhood park feel with excellent facilities. Open sunrise to 10pm.

• Coquina Beach Park

  Nestled among tall pines with winding walkways, beach-friendly wheelchairs, and Coquina Beach Cafe. Beautiful contrast of ocean blues and Old Florida charm. Open sunrise to 10pm.

• G.T. Bray Park

  Large recreational park with sports fields, playgrounds, and open spaces for various activities.

Nature Preserves & Trails

• Leffis Key Preserve

  30-acre saltwater wetland preserve with 1,500 feet of boardwalks through mangrove forest, viewing platforms, and a 26-foot observation hill offering 360-degree views of Sarasota Bay and the Gulf. Interpretive signs explain the diverse habitats. The 0.8-mile trail showcases native Florida flora including Jamaican dogwood, sea grapes, and southern red cedars. Bring bug repellent and water. Open 8am to sunset.

• Robinson Preserve

  682-acre preserve just off-island in Bradenton featuring walking trails, observation towers, kayak launches, fishing areas, picnic areas, and the historic Valentine House visitor center. Transformed from farmland to stunning coastal wetland habitats. Pet-friendly and perfect for hiking, biking, kayaking, and birdwatching. Free admission. Open sunrise to sunset.

• Perico Preserve

  176-acre bird sanctuary just east of Anna Maria Bridge. Features native plant life, diverse bird species (including roseate spoonbills and great blue herons), wetlands, and duck pond. Designated areas for biking; some areas foot-traffic only to protect wildlife. No pets allowed (except service animals).

• Neal Preserve

  120 acres of coastal habitats with boardwalks, shell trails, and an observation tower offering Gulf views. Located across from Compass Hotel in Anna Maria Sound.

• Coquina Baywalk

  Half-mile shell and boardwalk trail through restored natural habitat at the southern tip. Features mangrove swamps and connects to Coquina Beach. Great for spotting fish, crabs, herons, egrets, pelicans, and occasional frigate birds.

• DeSoto National Memorial Park

  Ten minutes from Anna Maria Island, this historical park offers hiking trails, fishing, boating, small beach areas, and engaging talks about the De Soto Expedition (January-April). Excellent for birdwatching during fall and spring migrations.

Outdoor Exercise Options

• Beach Running - The island is 7 miles long with hard-packed sand perfect for running. Many runners also use the sidewalks and roads along Gulf Drive.
• Beach Walking & Swimming - Miles of pristine white-sand beaches perfect for morning walks, evening strolls, and ocean swimming.
• Tennis & Pickleball - Available at The Center of Anna Maria Island with court access included in day passes and memberships.
• Biking - Excellent way to explore the island while getting exercise. Bike rentals available throughout the island with popular routes including the full 7-mile length of the island.

Beaches

• Bean Point Beach

  The most peaceful, untouched spot on AMI at the northern tip. This pristine beach wraps around the point with incredibly soft sand and beautiful, calm water. Perfect for sunset viewing.

• Coquina Beach

  Popular southern beach with restrooms, lifeguards, picnic tables, and a restaurant right on the beach. Known for soft white sand and never being too crowded.

• Manatee Beach

  Main public beach in Holmes Beach with plenty of amenities. Grab food at Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe and drinks at Bamboo Beach Tiki Bar.

• Cortez Beach

  Family-friendly beach with beautiful water and peaceful atmosphere.

• Bradenton Beach

  Great beach with easy access and wonderful sunset views.

Water Activities

• Private Boat Charters - Customize your own adventure with dolphin watching, sandbar visits, swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Snacks and drinks (including alcohol) typically included.
• Kayaking & Paddleboarding - Explore mangrove forests, spot manatees and dolphins, and discover hidden beach spots. Rentals available from multiple shops with free delivery.
• Fishing Charters - Half-day and full-day charters available for offshore, inshore, and fly-fishing. Extremely accommodating and child-friendly options.
• Jet Skiing - Explore over 200 miles of shoreline. Rentals available by the hour, half-day, or full-day, with some equipped with waterproof speakers. Guided tours available for dolphin watching.
• Parasailing - Glide 400 feet above turquoise water for bird's-eye views and an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
• Clear Kayak Tours - See crystal-clear water and diverse marine life through the bottom of your kayak on guided tours through Shell Key Preserve.

Island Exploration

• Bike Rentals

  The best way to explore the island! Cruise to different beaches, shops, and restaurants at your own pace. Beach Bums on Pine Avenue offers affordable rentals with free delivery and pickup, including beach cruiser bikes.

• Golf Cart Rentals

  A quintessential island experience and fun activity in itself. Rent street-legal electric carts for up to 6 people to explore the island in style.

• Leffis Key Preserve

  Peaceful nature preserve on the southern tip with mangroves, boardwalk trails, and stunning Sarasota Bay views. Great for spotting birds, fish, and occasional dolphins.

• Anna Maria City Pier & Rod and Reel Pier

  Historic piers perfect for fishing, sunset viewing, and dolphin watching. Free to walk on with restaurants at both locations.

• Bridge Street Pier

  Widely renowned among locals, perfect for sunset strolls and Gulf views.

Fun & Entertainment

• The Fish Hole Mini Golf - Adorable tropical-themed course with colorful marine life decor, waterfalls, and windmills. Perfect for families and lighthearted competition.
• Island Players Theatre - Founded in 1949, bringing live performances to the island and neighboring communities. Great evening entertainment option.
• Art Galleries & Art Walks - Explore local galleries on Pine Avenue and Bridge Street. During art walk events, enjoy live music, pop-up stalls, and meet local artists.

Cultural & Educational

• Anna Maria Island Historical Museum - Free admission to explore fascinating exhibits about island history and culture.
• Historic Green Village - Step back in time to explore the island's unique history through preserved buildings and exhibits.

Nearby Attractions

• Robinson Preserve (Northwest Bradenton) - Picturesque nature preserve with walking trails, kayaking opportunities, breathtaking views, birdwatching, and picnicking.
• Longboat Key - Just south of AMI, offering pristine beaches, upscale resorts, water sports, and renowned golf courses.
• St. Armand's Circle (30 minutes) - Massive open-air shopping and dining complex covering an entire island. Features specialty shops, boutiques like Lilly Pulitzer and Tommy Bahama, jewelry stores, and numerous dining options.

Getting There

The closest airport is Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), just 30 minutes away. Tampa International Airport is about 1.5 hours by car. The island is connected to the mainland by two bridges. Having a car is recommended, though golf carts and bikes are popular for island exploration.

Best Time to Visit

November through May offers ideal weather - warm enough for the beach without overwhelming humidity or crowds. Summer months are busier with more humid conditions. The island maintains its charm year-round with spectacular sunsets and beach activities available in every season.

Island Areas

• Anna Maria (North) - Charming and artistic with Pine Avenue as the shopping hub
• Holmes Beach (Central) - Most practical area with diverse shopping, dining, and easiest parking
• Bradenton Beach (South) - Lively and nostalgic with historic Bridge Street

Insider Tips

• Parking at beaches is free but fills up quickly, especially in summer. Arrive early for best spots.
• The free island trolley runs regularly and stops at major shopping and beach areas.
• Many restaurants offer happy hour specials - check individual locations for timing.
• Bike and golf cart rentals often include free delivery to your accommodation.
• Bean Point is perfect for sunset but has limited parking - arrive early or bike.
• Shop in the morning on Pine Avenue, then walk to Anna Maria City Pier for lunch and views.
• Star Fish Company in Cortez is cash only - but worth the short drive for the freshest, most affordable seafood.
• Bridge Street comes alive in the evenings with live music and patio dining.