For some reason, being at the beach makes a person crave a thick, juicy burger. Don’t ask us why, we don’t make the rules. But when you’re hankering for a hamburger, you’re in luck. Anna Maria Island has a lineup of burger and beer joints that serve delicious versions of this All-American favorite. 

Ghost Street Kitchen Get adventurous with a Cali Cheeseburger, made with guacamole, a Blue Marauder with Cajun seasoning and blue cheese or “The Assassin,” topped with smoked gouda, jalapeño cream cheese, pepper jack cheese and bacon. All are half-pound patties of deliciousness and have the garden toppings of lettuce and tomatoes.

Harry’s Grill gets nods as the island’s favorite burger. The burgers are made with an Angus sirloin patty grilled perfectly, then placed on a ciabatta bun. Top it with your choice of cheese, bacon or even BBQ pulled pork. 

Slim’s Place builds its burgers with 8-ounce Angus beef patties, flamed-grilled. Slim’s gets creative with its toppings, as well, including pulled pork, six pieces of bacon strip and a version with crispy onion straws. 

Ginny & Jane E’s Cafe and Gift Store serves as a central gathering hub on Anna Maria Island, serving fresh-baked bakery items, coffee and a delicious lunch. The grilled, hand-pressed burger gets rave reviews. You can get a single patty or double patty and add cheddar, American or Swiss cheese. 

Duffy’s Tavern, Bar and Grill dubs itself “Hamburger Heaven.” Check out the menu for an idea as to why. The selection is mouth-watering delicious, from the brie & caramelized onion cheeseburger to the Tex burger with bacon and BBQ sauce to the fresh jalapeño cheeseburger. They also offer a choice of seven cheeses and an array of “extras.” They don’t serve fries, but Duffy’s offers sides of homemade potato salad, coleslaw, and chips. 

Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe The burgers are delicious, and that view is amazing.

Skinny’s is Old Florida through-and-through. The classic burgers are all goodness, cooked to order. Order an extra patty or two extra patties for The G3, triple burger with three cheeses. Of course you can add a side of fries, but we recommend the onion rings – best on the island. Get your Coke in a bottle or an ice-cold glass of root beer or beer. 

Or grill your own burger at your backyard oasis when you stay at a luxury property like Casa AmigaChasing Waves or Conch Out Beach House.