Things to Do in Anna Maria Island: The Ultimate Itinerary

One of Florida’s best-kept secrets is Anna Maria Island. 

Situated southwest of Tampa Bay and west of Bradenton, this small slice of heaven has something to offer everyone. 

The island is classified as a – can’t-miss destination because of its beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and charming small-town feel.

While Anna Maria Island is home to Anna Maria Town, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach, the Town occupies about a quarter of the island’s land area and is known for its quaint atmosphere, historic architecture, and stunning beaches.

The island’s tranquil life is a dope for an urban soul who’s tired of living amidst a hustle. It doubles up as a successful antidote to stress and offers a rejuvenating escape to the citizens of the modern world desperately need. 

The primary aim of this article is to inform our readers about things to do in Anna Maria Island in Florida, eventually helping them to plan wisely and make the best of their stay. 

Things to Do in Anna Maria Island, Florida

Anna Maria Island, Florida, is a gem of a destination just off the Gulf Coast. In the next few minutes, you’ll learn about many things to do on Anna Maria Island and why it’s a destination one must travel to at least once in their lifetime. 

1. Horseback Riding

Available on the Anna Maria island, C Ponies offers a unique underwater equestrian adventure. You can ride your horse along the beach and into the bay, where it will swim. It is a fantastic all-year family activity. Beautiful horses and a group of equestrians will make sure your ride is safe and one of your most memorable vacation experiences. 

2. Visit Mote Marine Lab and Aquarium

This aquarium is among the greatest places to visit on Florida’s Gulf Coast. MOTE is the mainstay of the community and offers a variety of beneficial services, such as animal rehabilitation and environmental conservation. When the new facility is finished, make sure to check it out.

3. Enjoy the Incredible Wildlife

Many magnificent animals can be found in AMI, including geckos, birds, crabs, manatees, sea turtles, and dolphins. You may catch a glimpse of some of these creatures right from your rental! 

4. Pier and Shore Fishing

Pier fishing is prevalent on Anna Maria Island, and you can even do it close to some of the area’s most well-known eateries, like Rod & Reel Pier! Excellent varieties like trout, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, and more are available. 

Another well-liked location for pier fishing is Bradenton Beach’s Bridge Street Pier. You are welcome to fish from the shore if you would rather not fish from the pier. Many people are fishing from Longboat Pass or Coquina Beach into the Gulf or Bayside at any time of day. Just be sure to have a license to fish! 

5. Pirate Adventure

Board the Sea Gypsy and immerse yourself in this authentic journey. You’ll be astounded by how the crew harnesses the enchantment of a child’s imagination! The pirates, who will perform an AMAZING job, will delight the kids the entire time! 

6. The Fish Hole – Miniature Golf

Bradenton Beach’s The Fish Hole, located on historic Bridge Street, is a great place to play golf day or night. This small area within the golf course has a great vibe. The ambiance is lush and tropical, with excellent misting sprays and a 3,000-pound koi pond teeming with fish. Once the game is over, you can even feed the fish. Before you go, check the website for coupons.

7. Sunset Cruise and Take a Tour at Pine Avenue

The most incredible way to cap off your evening is with a breathtaking Florida sunset! As the sun gradually dips below the horizon, take in its breathtaking reflection on the sea. Wander around Pine Avenue, renowned for its charming boutiques and stores. With its quaint shops and welcoming ambiance, this street embodies Anna Maria in all her glory.

Offbeat Activities to Try on Anna Maria Island, Florida

Drop everything and explore beyond the ordinary with our curated list of offbeat activities on Anna Maria Island, Florida. 

1. AMI Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Egg Roll

Take your children to the Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Egg Roll if you’re in town for Easter. The Sandbar Restaurant hosts these events, where your kids can try snagging that yummy candy! In addition, you can enter the bonnet contest and snap a photo with the Easter Bunny. 

2. Build Your Own Donuts

Indulge in the unique flavors of the Build Your Own Donuts. These absurdly fresh treats are a must-try, with options like raspberry chocolate drizzle and Key lime pie. The line for these donuts is always worth the wait, and it’s not uncommon for people to enjoy a dozen donuts in a single day!

3. Enjoy The Sarasota Jungle Gardens

More than 200 native and exotic species, many of them rescued or given, call Sarasota Jungle Gardens home. Notable among them are Florida’s pink flamingos. All tucked away among ten acres of lush tropical landscape, linked by meandering walkways through the jungle. 

Why Visit Anna Maria Island?

We call Anna Maria Island an “unmissable” destination, and here’s why:

1. Great Weather

Anna Maria Island has the most amazing springtime weather. March, April, and May are considered springtime months, with highs in the 70s and lows in the mid-to-upper 60s. All you’ll need for the cooler mornings and evenings is a light jacket, and you’ll still be able to engage in all the outdoor activities you like.

2. Great Local Seafood

Some of Florida’s greatest seafood is available at AMI; it is always freshly caught and served promptly. For the freshest seafood you can imagine—including shrimp, lobster, crabs, and fish—visit nearly any of the neighborhood restaurants. To begin with, there’s Island Grill, The Ugly Grouper, and The Oyster Bar. 

3. Shopping for Every Taste

On Anna Maria Island, there are innumerable stores, so you can find whatever kind of memento you’re after. Take a stroll along Historic Bridge Street, stop at Back Alley Treasures to find a one-of-a-kind antique or head to Pine Avenue to observe the diverse array of stores. 

4. Gorgeous Gardens

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is located in Sarasota, on the other side of the mainland. This 15-acre show, which features amazing plants and fauna, will astonish the whole family and is ideal for visitors of all ages. 

5. Stunning Beaches

Despite its small size, Anna Maria Island is home to some amazing beaches. While Bean Point Beach and Coquina Beach offer a slightly more relaxed atmosphere, among the more well-liked family-friendly beaches are Manatee Public Beach and Anna Maria Public Beach.

6. Exhilarating Outdoor Activities

Anna Maria Island is the perfect destination for everyone who enjoys being outside. You can reserve a parasailing adventure, go fishing in a boat rental, go on a kayak excursion, or go on a nature hike. The options are genuinely infinite! 

The Final Word

Anna Maria is a seafood lover’s paradise because of its Gulf Coast location. Serving you delicacies crafted with the freshest catches is a point of pride for local restaurants. These Anna Maria eateries offer everything, from delicious grouper to delicious shrimp. 

Overall, if you’re someone who loves beaches, peace, family time, slow mornings, fresh air, good food, and time away from hustle and bustle, this island is for you.