Anna Maria Island, Florida

Anna Maria Island is ideally situated on the western Gulf coast of Florida, 7 miles west of Bradenton and 35 miles south of Tampa, Florida. Anna Maria Island is the northernmost in a string of barrier islands that stretch in a southerly direction down to the Everglades. Three separate villages comprise Anna Maria Island: Bradenton Beach to the south, Holmes Beach in the center, and Anna Maria on the northern tip. Crystal blue waters and sugar white sand beaches surround the length of Anna Maria Island’s seven mile coastline.

Anna Maria Island, Florida is known as the “island in the sun”. Gulf temperatures average 84 degrees and with 361 days of sunshine per year, almost about every day is perfect. When it rains — we go shopping!

The Island’s laid back charm and leisurely pace offer something for all. This tropical paradise offers free trolley service for both tourists and residents, touring the island from 6:00am–10:30pm daily…and stops right nearby our Anna Maria Island Florida beach rentals condos.

Anna Maria Island is surrounded by four bodies of water and is accessible by two drawbridges from the mainland and one of Longboat Key where you will discover Sarasota. This tropical island paradise offers you seven miles of the most beautiful and peaceful white sand beaches found anywhere in the world lined with fishing piers, miles of waterfront, waterfront restaurants, three waterfront parks, crystal clear blue waters that meet the seemingly endless powdery white sand beaches of Anna Maria Island, Florida

What to Do on Anna Maria Island

Located on the West Coast of Florida nestled perfectly between Tampa and Sarasota, Anna Maria Island is a tropical getaway that has recently gained a lot of attention with vacationers and in the media! Anna Maria Island offers everything a vacationer could want- fishing, boating, swimming, beaches, and short distances to TONS of attractions.

There is so much to do on Anna Maria Island — most people come to the Island to enjoy a relaxing day in the sun on the sugar sand beaches. You can hop on the free trolley and take a tour of the island, sample our fine island restaurants or shop the little boutiques. Rent a bike, scooter or Segway, or simply stroll the beach, picking up shells along the way as you watch our glorious island sunsets.

For the boater/fisher: Anna Maria Island features three fishing piers including one over the bay, excursion boats, boat rentals and charter boats are available. Rent a jet ski or kayak, go for a parasail ride or scuba dive – there are so many options! Marinas are located around the island or bring your own boat – ramps are conveniently located and the fishing’s great!

For the ‘beach bum’: Anna Maria boasts seven beautiful miles of white sand beaches and offers peaceful, relaxation as the beach is never crowded! Take a long walk, find shells, lay in the sun or swim in the Gulf, whatever you may choose, you won’t be disappointed.

For the explorer: From the north end of Anna Maria to the south tip of Bradenton Beach, treasures are to be found on our beautiful island. Explore the shell-lined shores on the beach or bird-watch over the bay. Stroll our island to your heart’s content or rent a bike and take advantage of our many bike paths.

For the shopper: Anna Maria Island loves supporting local shops and vendors so be sure to cruise around the island and talk to the natives! The island offers many different kinds of local beach, gift, and dress shops to meet all your needs. No car required – the free island trolley will glady transport you all over the island! For the bargain hunters, two outlet shopping malls are easily accessible off the island.

For the whole family: Enjoy theme parks? Experience them like never before! Busch Gardens Tampa, Disney World, Universal Studios, Sarasota Jungle Gardens and so many more are less than two hours away! Anna Maria Island is also a short drive to numerous museums, gardens, parks and entertainment! During February and early March, don’t forget to drop by Bradenton and Clearwater to see your favorite MLB teams at spring training!

For the golfer: The Manatee and Sarasota area offers close to 50 courses – from executive par threes to challenging championship 18 hole courses.

These are simply a few example of all Anna Maria Island has to offer! Reserve your next vacation and come see for yourself! For your pleasure please visit our ‘local links’ page and when you’re here, our Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is centrally located and available to give you up to date events happening around town.