It’s coming. Labor Day hits Sept. 4, and with it comes the “end” of summer. Of course, unofficially, it’s always the summer season on Anna Maria Island. But if you want to take a beach vacation, there is still time to book an Anna Maria Island stay. You’ll enjoy the comfort of a well-appointed beach rental in either Anna Maria or Holmes Beach

Need convincing? We’ll run down some reasons why a beach vacation is just the ticket for your Labor Day holiday. 

First, a last-minute beach stay means a chance to relax. Can’t we all use a little downtime? And there is no need for you to lift a finger hauling gear to the beach and back. Not when Cabana Up can do it for you. Call and let them know your desired set-up spot. Your chairs, umbrellas, and beach gear will be up by 10 a.m. most days with your name clearly labeled. Just walk up, put on sunscreen and enjoy your day at the beach. 

Second, park the car and take the free trolley to Bean Point or down to historic Bridge Street. The trolley starts at 6 a.m. from both ends of the loop and typically runs at 20-minute intervals until 9 p.m., then every 30 minutes until 10:30 p.m. Trolley stops are located every two to four blocks, so it’s easy to get where you want to go on AMI. Skip the rental car and instead rent a street-legal golf cart from Beach Bums for an easy way to explore. 

Next up, dine on delicious dishes at restaurants like Beach Bistro, Chateau Anna Maria, Skinny’s, and the Sandbar. Whether you have a hankering for a thick, juicy burger or a high-end, four-course meal, AMI restaurants have you covered. Or have The Loaded Kitchen have groceries delivered to your vacation rental before arrival.

Is adventure calling your name? Get out on the water with kayak rentals from Beach Bums AMI, go parasailing with AMI Parasail, or take a personal watercraft tour with H2O Watersportz. Make a splash before the summer passes by. 

Before life gets hectic, slow down with another swim in the Gulf of Mexico. Is there any destination more peaceful than the beach? With warm, gentle waves lapping on the shore, you are sure to unwind and find your happy place.