Anna Maria Island is the crown jewel of Florida. It is famous for its crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Are you planning a vacation to visit this amazing treasure of an island yourself? Check out Sato Real Estate’s 10 great things to do on Anna Maria Island to guarantee an Anna Maria Island experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life!
The Beaches
The list of great things to do on Anna Maria would not be complete without a nod to the main reason countless visitors return year after year to visit this unique island. Anna Maria Island has beaches along the entire western side of the Island. So no matter if you’re staying in the city of Anna Maria to the north, Holmes Beach in the middle, or Bradenton Beach in the south, you’ll find a beach for you. The Manatee and Coquina public beaches offer snack cafes, bathroom facilities and lifeguards, while others feel a little more private.
Rod and Reel Pier
If you’re looking for Waterside dining, look no further than the Rod and Reel Pier restaurant. Located on a pier overlooking Tampa Bay, you might see dolphins while enjoying the menu consists of fresh seafood. The pier also is a popular fishing spot, and features a bait shop.
The Donut Experiment
A popular place to start the morning on Anna Maria Island is at The Donut Experience. This one of kind pastry shop allows you to build your own donuts with a variety of frostings and toppings. This stop is one everyone finds to be a fun and delicious special treat.
Take a Boat Tour
One of the great things to do on Anna Maria is enjoy a boat ride. There are plenty of ways to get out on the water. Have you ever wanted to see dolphins in the wild? Dolphin tours through the intracoastal waterways looking for our curious friends. If you’d like to catch your own dinner, charter a fishing guide. The surrounding waters offer a variety of species suited for any style or taste. There are also fun runs, which will take you to explore destinations only accessible by boat, such as Egmont Key.
Rent a Bike
Before heading out on the water you might want to explore the island and get familiar with your new surroundings. Riding a Bike is a great way to get around the island safely and take in the fresh air. Beach Bums offers a variety of styles including cruisers, tricycles and geared bikes. They deliver, and have kids seats and tagalongs for the younger ones.
Parasailing
For the more adventuring visitors to Anna Maria Island parasailing provides an amazing way to see and experience the beautiful island coasts. This activity is group friendly as up to three people can go up into the air!
Anna Maria Island Historical Museum
Whether you’re a history buff, or just want to learn more about where you’re vacationing, The Anna Maria Island Historical Museum is a great stop! Here you can learn how the Island was founded, and see how the “old Florida charm” that is still present today got its roots. Don’t miss the original jail, a popular picture spot!
Photo Credit: Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum
Shopping on Pine Avenue
Is no trip complete without a little shopping? Visit Pine Avenue for a collection of boutiques and one-of-a-kind shops. Dubbed “The Greenest Little Main Street in America”, the street runs west from the beach, all the way east to the Historic Anna Maria Island City Pier. You can also stop in at Sato Real Estate to say hi; our offices are also located on Pine Avenue.
Bridge Street
Historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach is another destination for shopping and dining. There’s even a mini golf course! Or take a stroll on the pier, which has views to the Cortez fishing village and is a popular fishing spot itself.
Kayak Tours
To round out our great things to do on Anna Maria tours list we end on kayaking tours. Kayaking is a great way to get up and personal to the various creatures that call Anna Maria home. You may run into birds, manatees, dolphins, and other marine life on your on-water adventure.
Photo Credit: Beach Bums
Are you ready to experience these great things to do on Anna Maria Island yourself?
Call Sato Real Estate Anna Maria vacation rentals at (941) 778-7200 or shoot us a quick email to get your own amazing Anna Maria Island vacation experience to never forget!
