The Fourth of July is one of the most exciting times to vacation on Anna Maria Island! With family-friendly parades and festive activities, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.
First, book a well-equipped, premier vacation rental in Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, or Bradenton Beach. The Once Upon A Tide in Anna Maria Island offers four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, a private pool, ping-pong table, bikes, and tons of beach gear. Turtle’s Bay, a three-bedroom rental in Holmes Beach, also offers a pool in a backyard oasis. Of course, all our vacation rentals provide every amenity you need to make your stay comfortable.
Make your stay easy with The Loaded Kitchen, which will deliver groceries and dry goods to your vacation rental before your arrival. You pick the items, and they deliver, providing you with a hassle-free Fourth vacation.
It’s hot in July so spend as much time as possible in the water. However, if you prefer not to haul beach gear during your holiday, CabanUp will set up chairs, a cabana, and beach games for a fantastic day at the beach.
Don’t wait until the Fourth to see fireworks. The Beach House Restaurant kicks off the holiday with fireworks starting at 8 p.m. on July 3. The event is free to the public, with plenty of spots along the beach for watching the display.
A great way to cool off on Independence Day is the fun and festive Anna Maria Island Privateers annual 4th of July Parade, also deemed the Southeast’s largest water fight! The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. on July 4 from Longboat Key Marina, across Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, then goes through Holmes Beach and ends on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. More than 100 parade participants go to battle against the crowd of thousands in a massive water fight, so bring your water guns and expect to get wet! The Anna Maria Island Privateers is a non-profit organization in Manatee County that supports youth through scholarships and activities.
The parade ends at the Anna Maria City Pier, a great place for a Fourth of July beach picnic. Chill the watermelon and enjoy! Or take the party back to your vacation rental, where you can make use of the outdoor grill for burgers and hot dogs.
Make it an All-American celebration this summer on Anna Maria Island.
With Memorial Day coming up on May 27, it is time to book a place for your summer kickoff. After all, the holiday is the unofficial start of summer, our favorite time of year! Anna Maria Island makes an excellent destination, with plenty of family-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy.
- One reason is the amazing weather. May is comfortable with highs in the 80s and lows in the high 60s, making it warm enough to take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico or the bay.
- AMI offers seven miles of breathtaking beaches, perfect for soaking up the sun, building sandcastles, or playing a game of volleyball. From Beach Point to Coquina Beach, visitors discover plenty of places to pitch an umbrella and enjoy days in the sun and sand.
- CabanUpmakes it easy to do that with beach gear rentals, including chairs, games, and of course, cabanas. They’ll have your gear set up by 10 a.m. most days.
- As for those Memorial Day activities, the city of Anna Maria kicks off the holiday with a Patriotic Symphony Salute at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 27 at City Pier Park. The AMI Concert Orchestra performs and the U.S. Marine Corps does the flag presentation. The event honors veterans and service members. Free refreshments are served.
- Witness your first sunset of summer on the water with an AMI Saltwater Adventures Sunset Cruise. The magical cruise aboard a private boat gives passengers a front-row seat to a vibrant, colorful sunset.
- Enjoy amazing seafood cuisine during your Memorial Day visit. Get your feet in the sand with a Gulfside table at Sandbar Seafood & Spirits. Or watch the sunrise with breakfast at the Rod and Reel Pierin Anna Maria.
- Choosing the perfect accommodations for your stay is essential. We’ve got that covered. From Anna Mariato Holmes Beach to Bradenton Beach, our vacation planners can help you pick a first-rate rental that fits your family’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a beachside spot, multi-family home, or a dog-friendly rental, we can make that happen.
- AMI makes it easy for you to relax. With its small-town feel, beautiful beaches, and laid-back nature, Anna Maria Island has drawn generations of families to its shores. Now it’s your turn.
As the seasons shift and the warmth of spring and summer arrive, it’s the perfect time to start planning those treasured family getaways. And what better destination to celebrate the bond of family than the stunning shores of Anna Maria Island, Florida? With its pristine beaches, charming atmosphere, and wealth of activities for all ages, Anna Maria Island is the quintessential backdrop for creating lifelong memories with your loved ones.
As Mother’s Day and Father’s Day approach, it’s the perfect moment to honor not only the remarkable parents in our lives but also the cherished grandparents and extended family members who play an integral role in shaping our journeys. Here on Anna Maria Island, every moment is an opportunity for connection, laughter, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations to come.
Mother’s Day Bliss:
Start the day by treating the leading lady in your life to a serene sunrise stroll along the powdery sands of Bean Point Beach. With views of the Skyway Bridge and Tampa, along with the endless blues of the Gulf, this is a favorite for many. Enjoy the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore and the sun painting the sky in hues of pink and gold.
Afterward, indulge in a delightful brunch at one of the island’s charming nearby coastal cafes, where fresh food and decadent treats await. Ginny’s & Jane E’s Cafe is a local favorite, and offers great breakfast fare and pastries. Fifty Three Fifty (The Pourhouse) is also fairly close, and has a great selection of food, as well as a great selection of wines she’ll be sure to love! Don’t forget to raise a toast to Mom amidst the palms! Sandbar Seafood and Spirits is a great choice, too, if you are looking for some amazing views to go along with your food and drinks!
Want a little more adventure? For an afternoon of outdoors bonding, why not embark on a family kayaking adventure through the lush mangrove tunnels of Robinson Preserve? Paddle together as you explore the island’s diverse ecosystem, spotting native wildlife and sharing moments of wonder and discovery. Kayak Jacks is a local outfitter that offers rentals as well as guided eco tours. Their guided tours last about 2 hours and promise not just a visit, but a memorable adventure into nature’s wonders.
Shopping is another favorite, and the Anna Maria Island area offers many opportunities. On the North end, Anna Maria City boasts the delightful Pine Avenue, adorned with a diverse array of outdoor shops and restaurants. From the shores of Tampa Bay to the expanse of the Gulf of Mexico, you can leisurely stroll through the shops, promising a satisfying day of retail therapy! Meanwhile, Bradenton Beach beckons with its historic Bridge Street, teeming with charming cafes and boutique stores. And in Holmes Beach, a centrally located outdoor mall awaits, offering many keepsake shops and essential items to cater to all your needs.
Father’s Day Fun:
Kick off Father’s Day with an exhilarating deep-sea fishing excursion in the sparkling waters surrounding Anna Maria Island. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or casting your line for the first time, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of reeling in a big catch alongside Dad. There are many great charter options, including Captain Nate, Just Kickin Back Charters, AMI Offshore, Captain Salty, and more.
After working up an appetite on the waves, head to one of the island’s renowned seafood shacks for a casual lunch overlooking the marina. Feast on freshly grilled grouper sandwiches and crispy fried shrimp as you bond over tales of the one that got away…or the one you got on the boat!
In the afternoon, channel your competitive spirit with a friendly game of beach volleyball or a family sandcastle-building contest on the soft sands of Coquina Beach. Let your imagination run wild as you sculpt towering fortresses and intricate designs, laughing and cheering each other on every step of the way. Those memories will not soon be forgotten.
As evening descends, treat Dad to a sumptuous seafood feast at one of the island’s upscale waterfront restaurants. Raise a glass to his unwavering love and support, and toast to the timeless memories that have been forged on this island paradise. Some top picks include The Waterfront Restaurant, Blue Marlin, and The Beach Bistro.
Beyond Mother’s and Father’s Day:
While these holidays provide the perfect excuse to shower our parents with love and appreciation, the magic of Anna Maria Island extends far beyond special occasions. Whether it’s building sandcastles with the little ones, embarking on a sunset cruise with the whole family, or simply relishing in the beauty of nature, every moment spent together here is an opportunity to create new memories and strengthen the bonds that unite us.
So, why wait for a designated holiday to celebrate family? Start planning your unforgettable getaway to Anna Maria Island today. Just CLICK HERE to visit the amazing roster of vacation rental properties that Beach Retreats offers and pick one that will perfectly suit your family. We have many amazing places that are available for long weekends, so contact us directly and we can help you find the best fit for your group. You’ll be ready to embark on a journey filled with love, laughter, and endless moments of joy. After all, the greatest gift of all is the precious time we spend with those who matter most.
A lot of the fun of a vacation is dining out. On Anna Maria Island, the choices seem limitless – everything from kid-friendly fare to local seafood to international cuisine. We narrow down the list with some of our favorite selections.
Let’s start with breakfast. Order the cinnamon roll at Ginny’s and Jane E’s Bakery Cafe. It’s mouth-watering and enormous – enough for two. Get there early because these cinnamon rolls go fast.
While The Rod and Reel Pier serves delicious traditional seafood fare and burgers, many locals consider it a top choice for breakfast. Get there early to watch the sunrise while enjoying the Island Style French Toast, with three slices of Texas toast dipped in a coconut egg batter and grilled to a golden brown.
An island favorite since 1952, it’s all about the burger at Skinnys Place. Those with a hearty appetite can order the triple patty G3 or the four-patty-Mid Island Pounder. Skinnys also serves a Skinny Hamburger and their most popular, the Fatty Bacon Cheeseburger.
As for cocktails, the Sandbar Seafood and Spirits serves craft drinks with a beachside view of the sunset. Order the Malibu Punch Bucket, made with banana, passion fruit, mango, pineapple, or coconut rum, served with tropical juices in a souvenir bucket.
The Anna Maria Salad is a hit at The Feast Restaurant. It’s made with all the garden favorites, blackened chicken, Haas avocado and Chèvre goats’ cheese, then topped with a hazelnut vinaigrette. Here’s a local tip: The Feast may just make the best gourmet pizza on the island.
The Cajun shrimp and crab dip is a must-way to start your meal at The Porch in Anna Maria. You can’t go wrong with any of the entrees, but a favorite is the Tamari maple-glazed salmon served with rice and farro, and a choice of side.
The Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach serves a divine five-course tasting experience. Diners can’t go wrong with any choices, but we recommend the Course Two offering of Lobster Cargots. This combines Maine lobster bites with herbed spinach and seasoned garlic butter. For Course Three, choose Grouper Floribbean, pan-seared coconut/cashew encrusted Gulf Coast grouper served with bell pepper papaya jam.
If you love grouper, head to The Waterfront Restaurant & Craft Bar in Anna Maria for tacos made with lightly blackened grouper served on grilled flour tortillas with Jicama slaw, cheddar jack cheese and pico de gallo. Or choose the grouper cake sandwich served with Creole mustard and house pickles on a toasted brioche bun.
And the list doesn’t even include dessert! Does that have your taste buds ready for your next AMI vacation?
If your idea of a paradise means something other than wall-to-wall high-rise condos and tourist traps, Anna Maria Island is just the ticket. Discover an Old Florida-feel where wooden beach cottages, mom-and-pop businesses, and spectacularly gorgeous beaches live aside tiki huts and fishing piers. Three charming communities are along the seven-mile stretch of the island – Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach.
1. The free municipal trolley carries vacationers and locals to various stops, including the Island Shopping Center, Manatee County Public Beach, Bridge Street and Coquina Beach. The trolley makes regular stops, so riders never wait too long to hop aboard.
2. Our beaches offer beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Bay, with Manatee Beach a family favorite for its playground, bathrooms, showers, and lifeguard patrols.
3. Bicycling and golf carts make it easy to get to the beaches or the stores along Pine Avenue, a revitalized main street from The Gulf of Mexico to the Historic City pier with one-of-a-kind shops, boutiques, and great restaurants. Beach Bums AMI rents bicycles and golf carts, and offers free delivery to your vacation property for rentals over 24 hours.
4. Between the trolley, golf carts and bicyclists, Anna Maria Island benefits from a lack of traffic, adding to the island’s laid-back vibe.
5. The piers – the Anna Maria City Pier and Rod n’ Reel Pier – bring to life memories of old-school beach vacations. The piers make glorious spots for fishing and crabbing.
6. Rustic dive bars, pier grills, and beach- or bay-side dining make for an inviting dining experience. What’s better on vacation than a burger at the beach or an oyster po-boy sitting on a pier?
7. If the island gets a little too crowded for your liking, go off-road to Grassy Pointe Preserve, an ecological park in Holmes Beach, or Leffis Key preserve in Bradenton Beach. Both have walking trails and boardwalks, and feel a million miles away.
8. Shop along Historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, a walkable strip with spectacular water views and plenty of stores. Bridge Street Bazaar, family-owned and operated since 1987, makes an inspiring stop for souvenirs, and sells everything needed for the beach. Other retro favorites include Back Alley Treasures, One Stop Shell Shop, the Fudge Factory, and Bridge Street Bait Shop.
9. Perhaps the best part of an AMI vacation is the accommodations. Low-rise buildings, beach cottages, large family homes make up the portfolio for our boutique rental agency. But nothing is “old” about the amenities, furnishings, and appliances. Our properties offer upgrades, but with that “old Florida” feel.
Here’s a secret about Anna Maria Island: The destination is just as fantastic in the shoulder season as during the summer. With cooler temperatures and less humidity, many visitors find it their favorite time of year on AMI.
If you think winter means less to do, think again. There are plenty of activities and experiences to keep you busy this time of year.
Visit the beach. The weather stays warm enough – in the 70s – to enjoy our beaches, which are far less crowded than in spring and summer. While it’s not the season for staying in the water (unless you are wearing a wetsuit), the weather is perfect for beach combing, sunbathing, flying a kite, or reading a book. Rent a beach set-up from our partner, CabanUp.
Farmers Markets make a marvelous way to spend time. Discover an array of local produce, artwork, and mouthwatering food. The Bridge Street Market, 107 Bridge St. in Bradenton Beach, runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday through April. The Coquina Beach Market, 2650 Gulf Drive South in Bradenton Beach, is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays and Wednesdays.
Spend a day strolling Pine Avenue in Anna Maria for shopping and dining. Pop into Anna Maria Olive Oil Outpost, 401 Pine Ave., for meticulously crafted extra virgin olive oils in various flavors. Shop at boutiques such as Pineapple Marketplace, The Island Cabana, Shiny Fish Emporium and more.
Take a pic at the Old City Jail, part of the AMI Historical Society Complex at 402 Pine Ave. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. The jail dates to 1927, and housed rowdies who had too much to drink until the 1940s, when it caught fire. The wooden roof burned away, but the original tabby structure remains. The jail is one of the most photographed attractions on the Island. Admission to the museum is free, though donations are accepted.
Travel AMI like a local with a golf cart rental. Beach Bums AMI rents street-legal electric carts, which makes a great way to get around AMI. And riding around in a golf cart is a fun adventure. Rent by the day, week, or month.
Talk about a fun way to get around AMI, Beach Bums AMI also rents bicycles. With flat terrain, bicycling is an easy-breezy way to see the sights, and get to the stores and restaurants. Beach Bums AMI even rents tandem bikes and adult-size tricycles. They offer free delivery to your vacation rental.
Open 365 days a year, Robinson Preserve in northwest Bradenton offers more than 680 acres with hiking trails, canoe launches, bicycle trails, picnic areas and more. The park is open sunrise to sunset.
Book a winter stay to enjoy one of the best seasons on Anna Maria Island.
Are you planning a trip to Florida this spring? Discover a hidden gem at Anna Maria Island. The Island, just seven miles long, has something for everyone while avoiding the Spring Break crowds at other destinations. And don’t worry. You will find plenty of activities to enjoy with a stay in our little island paradise.
Beaches!
A Spring Break getaway always involves spending time on our beautiful beaches. Splash in the waves or sit in the sand. There are several spectacular beaches on the Island. Pick a spot and set up beach chairs. Better yet, have CabanUp set it up for you.
Swim with Horses
Go horseback riding on the beach with C Ponies, which includes a beach ride where the horses take you for a swim. The C Ponies tours are fabulous activities for any level of riding experience.
Fishing
The fishing off AMI is incredible. Book a two-hour family trip with AMI Charters. The company also offers longer fishing excursions, sunset cruises, and four-hour fun runs. An experienced crew puts you on the fish and helps you reel in a winner.
Paddling
Paddle some flat water with Beach Bums AMI, which offers a scenic kayak tour along the mangroves and into Anna Maria Sound. Paddlers can see plenty of wildlife, including dolphins and sometimes a manatee.
The 36th Springfest, a fine arts and crafts festival, is set March 16-17 at the City Hall Field in Holmes Beach. This festival is a combination of people, education, entertainment, and food. Find handcrafted items by talented local artists. The Coquina Beach Crab & Music Festival also happens March 15-17 at Coquina Beach’s North End.
Enjoy Seafood
Anna Maria Island is home to delicious seafood restaurants. Local favorites include Sandbar Seafood & Spirits, The Waterfront, and The Porch. Casual eateries include Rod & Reel Pier, The Ugly Grouper and the Koconut Hut.
Dine In
Have your vacation rental stocked with groceries prior to your arrival. The Loaded Kitchen does all the work for you, leaving you to relax and enjoy your stay. Go online, fill up your shopping bag from home, and The Loaded Kitchen delivers your groceries to your vacation property and puts them in your pantry and fridge.
Don’t miss out on one of Florida’s prime Spring Break destinations. Book your stay now.
Celebrate your sweetheart with a magical Anna Maria Island vacation. The island makes a beautiful backdrop for a romantic Valentine’s Day escape.
The Beach
Take a walk at sunrise or sunset, and watch the waves roll in. The hideaway beach at Bean Point is a spectacular spot away from the crowds. Enhance your fairy-tale experience with a luxury picnic on the beach with Sunshine Concierge Partners. Romantic packages start at $299. They set up a table, beach blanket, pillows, and plenty of ambiance and serve a heart-shaped charcuterie.
Table for Two
The intimate setting of Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach makes a marvelous pick. The restaurant boasts a five-course meal and picturesque views of the Gulf of Mexico. Reserve a table right on the beach. The Porch in Anna Maria offers a fine dining experience in a renovated historic home. Prepare for a divine meal, carefully prepared with the choice-pick of ingredients.
Into the Bay
Want to ride a horse on the beach, galloping through the surf with the wind in your hair? It is the stuff of a romance novel. But you can experience it with C Ponies. Choose a sunset or other excursion for a horseback ride into the waters of Palma Sola Bay.
At the Spa
Book a massage for couples on the beach at Sea-Renity Beach Spa & Bou-Tiki, 9805 Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach. The beachside massage is a one-of-a-kind experience that takes place in an open-air, private tiki hut. Listen to the waves and feel the breeze while your stress fades away. Ask about a sunset appointment.
On the Water
Take a sunset cruise with AMI Charters for a memorable adventure. The seasoned captains take passengers to picturesque spots to catch the breathtaking sight of the sun going down over the water. As an added bonus, passengers watch dolphins play in the wake.
A Bike Path
Take a tandem bike ride along the Coquina Bike Path in Bradenton Beach, a popular trail with spectacular views of the AMI shorelines. The path branches off into other routes that traverse the entire island. Rent a tandem bicycle from Beach Bums AMI, and they will deliver to your
AMI makes a dream destination for a romantic getaway. Book a property like Beach Bliss with a private pool and hot tub for added appeal.
Turquoise water. Sandy beaches. Spectacular sunsets. What’s not to love about Anna Maria Island? As one of the most scenic spots in the Sunshine State, AMI offers a relaxing, restful getaway apart from the regular tourist sites.
First up, plan an easy and stress-free beach getaway. Our property experts are happy to answer any question you have. Call us at 941-270-3846 or email [email protected].
Of course, the main attractions are our beautiful beaches. From Bean Point to the north to Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, our beaches offer the tall palm trees and Gulf breezes, with plenty of family-friendly attractions and restaurants.
Make it easy on yourself by booking a beach set-up from Cabana Up. They deliver lounges, chairs, umbrellas, and other gear to the beach. You show up and relax.
What’s a beach getaway without delectable, mouth-watering seafood? Fortunately, AMI has a wide variety, from the Sandbar to The Waterfront Restaurant to The Porch. Whether your favorite is shrimp, fresh catch, or oysters, you’ll find plenty of succulent seafood dishes at the island’s restaurants.
The free island trolley makes it easy to get to those restaurants. The trolley runs a loop around the island, and passengers can hop on and off. Keep the car parked and enjoy the convenience of the public transit. Our accommodations are within walking or trolley distance to everything you need.
Paddle through AMI’s mangrove system, bays, and inlets with a kayak tour. Participants experience the island in a different way, including seeing dolphins in the wild and passing under the City Park Pier. Beach Bums AMI will even adapt the tour to sights you want to view.
Next to the free trolley, the easiest way to get around the island is on two wheels. Rent some cruisers and hit the bike paths. The outfitter delivers bicycles to your beach rental, with locks, lights and helmets provided upon request.
Enjoy a room with a view like our four-bedroom TipSea Turtle property with a rooftop lounge area. Watch the sunrise over Tampa Bay, then head downstairs for a dip in the private pool. Footprints in the Sand, another four-bedroom luxury property, offers views of the Gulf of Mexico from the top floor master bedroom.
If this is your idea of paradise, start planning your AMI vacation now.
Is there a better way to kick off 2024 than a trip to the beach? Anna Maria Island offers temps in the 70s and lots of sunshine, even in December and January.
A great thing about AMI is the free Island Trolley, which makes several loops around the island each day. Hop on and off as much as you like until 10:30 p.m. It is a safe and efficient way to get around, avoid traffic, and allow yourself to indulge in a cocktail or two while celebrating. Download the app to set up notifications of arrival times at your designated stop.
Enjoy a night out with several restaurants on Pine Avenue, Gulf Drive, Marina Drive and East Bay Street. The Beach Bistro, 6600 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, is a premier dining destination with a five-course chef’s tasting menu. And those sunset views are breathtaking! The Waterfront Restaurant & Craft Bar, 111 S. Bay Ave., offers an Old Florida ambiance. But don’t let that fool you. The menu selections and craft cocktails lay out an exceptional dining experience.
Watch the fireworks at The Beach House on Gulf Drive North in Bradenton Beach, one of the most anticipated events of the season. Reserve a table or find a spot on the deck available on a first come basis. You can also set up a blanket or camp chair on the beach in front of the restaurant and watch the sky light up with color.
If you want to venture a little farther south, a Pineapple Drop is held each year in downtown Sarasota. It takes place at the intersection of Lemon Avenue and Main Street. The festivities – including carnival rides – starts at 1 p.m. But the “party” begins at 9 p.m. with dancing and live music before the pineapple drop and fireworks finale.
If you prefer a quiet New Year holiday, walk one of our beautiful beaches. Whether you choose one on Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay or the Gulf of Mexico, you can find the perfect spot. From Beach Point, Bayfront Park and Anna Maria Beach at the northern tip of the island to Coquina Beach on the south end, our beaches offer places for fishing, finding seclusion, or playing with the kids.
Toast with champagne at your beach accommodations and watch the fireworks from your balcony. Create a new tradition with your family by booking a beach property for this New Year holiday.