Anna Maria Island is one of my top three picks for best places
to visit in Florida. Just in case you are curious; Naples and the Keys are the
other two places. My favorite thing about the Anna Maria is that no matter where
you stay, it feels like you actually live there. All of the hotels/resorts are
nestled in neighborhoods among palm trees, colorful foliage, and private homes.
The Island is about an hour’s drive south of Tampa and is 7
1/2 miles long and less than a mile wide. It is divided into three sections; Anna
Maria (Northern end), Holmes Beach (Middle section), and Bradenton Beach
(Southern end).
Anna Maria (North End of Island)
The north end is my favorite part of the island and where we usually spend
most of our time. The homes are gorgeous and the beaches are less crowded.
Unless you are staying in the area, it is hard to use the beaches due to lack
of parking.
Beaches
Bean Point
Bean Point is the best beach on the island. It is at
the northern tip of the island. There is a massive area of white sand and the
sunsets are amazing. It is a public beach, but mainly used by people staying in
the area.
Limited parking is along North
Shore Drive. Park completely off the road (no tires touching the road) and
between the designated signs. Last time
we were there, it was limited to about six spots along the whole road. It will basically
be in someone’s yard. There are access points along the road with signs
indicating beach access. It will be between houses. Be prepared for a long walk
through sand to get to the water.
Address:
Starts around 825 N Shore Dr Anna Maria, FL 34216 and runs west
100 Pine Avenue access
It is usually more
crowded by people staying locally and basically has no parking either.
Bayfront Park
Bayfront Park has a nice beach area and the
water is calmer. A good size public parking area is available.
Address:
316 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Shopping
Bayview Plaza
We loved the clothing
boutiques and ice cream shop and it is withing walking distance of where we
usually stay.
Address:
101 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Pine Avenue
Tons of colorful boutiques and specialty shops are along Pine Avenue. Most have parking in front.
The Donut Experiment
The Donut Experiment is a donut shop where you pick your topping to make a
designer donut. We were told they are amazing, but unfortunately, it was so crowded
that we couldn’t even get in the door. People were sitting around outside
eating them and they did look good! Maybe next time. Lol
Address:
210c Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Rod and Reel Pier
Enjoy one of the most amazing views on the island while eating
local seafood at The Rod and Real Pier.
Address:
875 N Shore Dr, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Sandbar Restaurant
The Sandbar Restaurant is another great place
with local seafood but with beach front dining and a perfect sunset view.
Address:
100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Lodging (Reasonably Priced)
Sunrise Garden Resort
The Sunrise Garden Resort is surrounded by lush tropical landscape in a quiet residential
area, It is the perfect place to enjoy the laid-back
feel of Anna Maria Island. See my review post here.
Address:
512 Spring Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Anna Maria Motel & Resort Apartments
This place is all about the location. Walk across the road
and you are at Bean Point beach access. We have only stayed here once, but it
was clean and has a nice pool.
Address:
808 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Other Fun Things to do
Movies in the Park
Movies at the Bayfront
Park on Wednesday nights a 6:30 pm. Check here to see what’s playing.
Address:
316 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216
Holmes Beach (Middle section)
This is where the main access to the island is located. It
is super crowded and is very time consuming to drive through this area.
Beaches
Anna Maria Public Beach & Manatee Beach Park
Both are public and have parking. As I said, they are very crowded
during the day.
Address:
Anna Maria
102 39th St, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Manatee Beach
4000 State Road 64 and Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Shopping
Sun and Surf Beach Shop
They have the cutest clothes and unique gifts. We also love all the birds in the cages lining the front of the store.
Address:
5418 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Where to eat
We usually stop at the Publix Super Market and get food to
cook at the cottage. It is the only grocery store on the island.
Address:
3900 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Where to stay
We have never stayed in this area. It is so busy that the
north and south ends are better options.
Bradenton Beach (Southern end)
Beaches
Coquina Beach
Coquina Beach is a nice public beach with plenty of parking.
Address:
1438 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Shopping & Where to Eat
Bridge Street
Historic Bridge Street is the spot that used to be
the only access to the island. An old wooden bridge was where the pier is
located now. You will find a good selection of unique places to shop and eat.
Address;
Bridge streets meets Gulf Drive around 111 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Lodging
Tropic Isle Beach Resort
Beautifully landscaped, clean, reasonably priced and only a
road between it and the beach.
Address;
101 22nd St N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Other Fun Things to Do on the Island
Charter a trip to Egmont Key, rent kayaks or jet skis, get a
massage on the beach, or take a sunset cruise
Kayak rentals -
https://happypaddler.com/rentals-kayak-paddleboard-longboat-key-anna-maria-bradenton/
Eggmont Key, Dolphin tours, and sunset cruises -
https://www.amidolphintours.com/tours
Ways to Get Around the Island
The free Anna Maria Island trolley, Renting a golf cart, or
a bike
Shelling on Anna Maria Island
Anna maria is not great for shelling. Occasional shells can
be found on the beaches, but they are small.
Day Trips off the Island
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
About a 30-minute drive
3701 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34234
Fort De Soto Park
About an hour drive
3500 Pinellas Bayway
S, St. Petersburg, FL 33715
Sunken Gardens
About an hour drive
1825 4th St N, St.
Petersburg, FL 33704
Happy Travels!
Upon arriving at Washington Island, make your way to
Schoolhouse Beach, a truly unique attraction that will leave you in awe. As one
of only five smooth limestone beaches in the world, this beach is a natural
wonder. The absence of traditional sand gives the beach its distinctive appeal,
with millions of smooth, rounded limestone rocks covering the shore. Take a
leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic, or simply bask in the tranquility of this
extraordinary spot.
For a taste of history and culture, make sure to visit the
Washington Island Stavkirke. This beautiful replica of a Norwegian Stave Church
pays homage to the island's Scandinavian heritage. Marvel at the intricate
woodwork and craftsmanship as you explore the church's interior. Guided tours
are available, offering insights into the history and significance of this
architectural gem.
Washington Island in Door County, Wisconsin, is a
destination that truly captivates the heart and soul. From the unique beauty of
Schoolhouse Beach and the enchanting sand dunes of Sand Dunes Park to the rich
history of the Washington Island Stavkirke, this island offers a diverse range
of experiences. Embarking on a ferry ride to reach the island only adds to the
allure of this extraordinary place. To top it all off, the island's charming
outdoor dining options provide the perfect end to a day of exploration. Plan
your visit to Washington Island and prepare to be enchanted by its natural
wonders, cultural treasures, and culinary delights.
